Everything you need to know about training at Kaizen Academy. Can't find your answer? Contact us — we respond the same day.
Getting Started
Yes — every new student gets a free trial class. No commitment, no equipment needed, no experience required. Book your free trial here.
None at all. Our classes are designed for complete beginners from day one. No martial arts background, no athletic background, no fitness level required.
Just a human shape. BJJ is in itself one of the best ways to get in shape. Show up consistently and your fitness will transform — you don't need to prepare to start.
Comfortable athletic wear — shorts and a t-shirt are perfect for your first visit. No Gi or special equipment needed for the trial. After joining, we'll guide you on what gear to get.
2–3 times per week is the sweet spot for beginners. It gives your body time to recover and your mind time to process what you're learning. Build up gradually — consistency over months matters more than intensity over weeks.
On the Mat
Rolling is what BJJ practitioners call live sparring — we're literally rolling around on the mat. You're not required to roll your first class. If you're nervous, just tell the instructor. When you're ready, we'll match you with an appropriate partner who knows it's your first time.
BJJ has one of the lowest injury rates of any contact sport because the goal is to submit — not to strike. Tapping is always encouraged and immediately respected. Our capped class sizes (max 15) mean your instructor is always watching.
Gi classes require a clean matching Gi (top and bottom) in white, blue, or black — free of rips, stains, or odors. For No-Gi, wear athletic shorts (no pockets or zippers) and a rash guard or compression shirt. Men should wear shorts over tights.
Yes — it's one of the most proven martial arts for real-world self defense. Most physical confrontations end up on the ground, where BJJ gives you genuine control tools that work regardless of size or strength.
Absolutely. BJJ is arguably more valuable for women than any other demographic — the entire art is built on the principle that a smaller, weaker person can control a larger attacker. Every woman benefits from knowing how to protect herself.
Kids Program
As young as 3 years old. Our Little Lions program (3–5) is purely play-based movement — no sparring. Juniors (6–9) begin fundamental technique. Teens (10–13) train a full curriculum with live rolling.
Yes. Our kids program is structured, supervised, and age-appropriate at every level. Younger kids do no live sparring. Older kids learn tapping immediately. Class sizes are capped and every session has a black belt instructor.
Yes — and research backs it up. BJJ builds real physical confidence, which removes a bully's power entirely. Children who know they can handle themselves physically almost never need to use it — because that calm confidence is visible.
Absolutely — we encourage it, especially at first. Seeing the environment builds trust for you and your child. Many parents end up joining themselves after watching a few classes.
Belts & Progression
Legitimate BJJ schools do not promote on class count alone. At Kaizen Academy, promotions are based on skill, knowledge, mat time, and an understanding of each student's individual goals. Most students earn their blue belt within 1–3 years of consistent training. A black belt typically takes 8–12+ years.
Most students who train consistently (2–3x/week) earn their first white belt stripe within 2–3 months. Stripes recognize both attendance and technical understanding.
Membership & Pricing
Adult BJJ is $185/month (includes both Gi and No-Gi). Kids BJJ is $175/month. Drop-in for adults is $50/session. All memberships are month to month — no contracts. Full pricing details →
Give us 30 days written notice and that's it. No cancellation fees, no questions, no hard sell to stay. We'd love for you to keep training — but we never make leaving difficult.