FAQs
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu or BJJ is a martial art based on grappling and ground fighting, focusing on the skill of controlling one’s opponent through techniques that force them to submit. It prides itself on being known as the “gentle art”, allowing a smaller, weaker person to use leverage and submissions (such as chokes and locks) to defend oneself against a bigger opponent.
BJJ originated from Judo (Newaza) and Japanese Jujutsu, it has since been adapted and modified by Carlos Gracie and his family to become the martial art it is today.
The popularity of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) has been on a steady rise over the years, thanks to the growing audience of MMA. Typical Brazilian Jiu Jitsu jargon such as “rear naked choke”, “armbar” and “guard” have even become common vocabulary among non-practitioners.
Why train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
There are many reasons why people choose to train BJJ. Some people are motivated by a desire to learn to defend themselves, while some people are interested in the sporting side of the art, or train it alongside other martial arts so that they can compete in mixed martial arts competitions. Other people choose to train because they enjoy the exercise, and see it as a good way to get fit. All of those reasons are valid.
At Serenity Jiu Jitsu we teach both Gi (wear a uniform) and No-Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for adults and children, and cover self defence techniques as well as sports-focused techniques. Our classes are attended by a broad range of age and ability levels, including competitive BJJ players, mixed martial artists, fitness enthusiasts and those who are training for self defence.
Do I need to be fit to do a martial art?
At Serenity Jiu Jitsu we run a Fundamentals program designed to help you improve as a martial artist, we don't expect you to be an MMA fighter from day one and our structured program will allow you to develop as a martial artist whilst improving flexibility, strength and stamina.
What should I wear to my first class?
At Serenity Jiu Jitsu we have a mix of gi and no-gi classes, the gi is a traditional uniform used by many martial arts, but a BJJ gi is a much thicker and heavier garment than a karate or Japanese Jiu Jitsu gi. You do not need to buy a gi for your first class, however as we will loan this to you. In the No-gi classes people usually wear shorts and rash guards although again if you don't have these initially don't worry.
For your first class, we recommend you wear shorts or tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt. The garments you wear may be grabbed and pulled on, so choose something sturdy and that you don’t mind being tugged at. For safety reasons, do not wear anything with zips, pockets or buttons. If you have long hair, please tie it back with a soft hair tie.
Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu a suitable martial art for children?
BJJ is an excellent martial art for children to help them improve confidence and discipline in a safe and fun environment. Our head instructor is a former teacher and has ran courses at local schools in North Tyneside and around Newcastle to help integrate martial arts into their existing system.
At Serenity Jiu Jitsu we run six classes for kids per week with an age range of 4-13, we also offer a one weeks free trial to make sure Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is for them.