Frequently Asked Questions – Kids’ Jiu-Jitsu Classes
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)? How is it different from other martial arts?
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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that focuses on ground-based grappling and submissions. BJJ emphasizes technique and leverage, where other martial arts focus on strength and striking. Watch a short video.
Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu safe for kids?
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Yes! When taught by qualified instructors, like those at Gracie Barra Conroe, BJJ is a safe for kids. Our instructors prioritize safety, and students learn age-appropriate techniques, aligned with a standardized, age-appropriate curriculum.
At what age can kids start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
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At Gracie Barra Conroe, kids can start training as early as age 3. We offer classes for young kids, pre-teens and teens. See class descriptions.
How do kids benefit from taking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
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BJJ helps improve physical fitness, teaches discipline, builds self-confidence, enhances problem-solving skills, promotes social interaction and more!
Will my child get hit or hurt? What do you do to help prevent injuries?
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While minor injuries like bruises and strains are possible, our safety measures, supervision and responsible instruction help minimize risks. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu doesn’t involve striking, so there’s no punching or kicking.
Does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu have belt levels/ranking system for kids?
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Yes. We have a belt system, and children progress as they gain experience and skill.
Does my child have to participate in competitions or tournaments?
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Competitions/tournaments are optional but are a valuable experience for kids who want to participate.
What values and principles are taught?
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Our classes promote camaraderie, discipline, respect, perseverance and setting and achieving goals.
How does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu help with discipline and behavior?
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Our classes help instill discipline through consistent training, respect for instructors and training partners and adherence to Gracie Barra rules and etiquette.
Does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu help improve self-confidence?
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Yes. Our classes help students gain self-confidence as they overcome challenges, learn practical self-defense techniques and the importance of setting and achieving goals.
How does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu help with self-defense skills?
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We teach practical self-defense techniques that kids can leverage, if they ever find themselves in a threatening situation.
Can Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu be a long-term activity? Are there opportunities for kids to advance or pursue a career in it?
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Yes. BJJ can be a lifelong activity and provide lifelong benefits. Kids advance through our belt system and can become instructors and/or competitors.
Is there any special equipment or uniform needed for class?
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Yes. A Gracie Barra BJJ gi (uniform) and belt are required. View special offer for new students.
What can I expect in a kids’ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class?
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Our classes include warm-ups, technique instruction and technique drills with a partner. If there’s time at the end of class, kids participate in a fun game, that’s actually designed to teach them movement and coordination.
How long are kids’ classes? How often does my child need to attend?
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Our classes are between 45 minutes to an hour, depending upon age. We offer classes six days a week to accommodate parents’/kids’ busy schedules. Your child can attend one class each week or all six — it’s your discretion. View class offerings.
Do I need to be present during my child’s class?
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It’s not required, but we encourage you to attend your child’s class. We have substantial seating areas where you can watch your child participate. We also have areas to accommodate parents who may need to handle work commitments during class (e.g., charging phone, working on a laptop).
Are there any specific rules or etiquette my child should follow in class?
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Our students follow Gracie Barra rules and etiquette standards, such as bowing before entering and leaving the mat, showing respect to instructors and training partners and maintaining good hygiene. Our class etiquette guidelines are posted on the wall, so all students and parents are aligned with Gracie Barra’s expectations.
How can I find a reputable Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school or instructor for my child?
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You found it! Gracie Barra Conroe is part of the world-renowned Gracie Barra organization, with over 1,000 schools worldwide. This affiliation means we follow strict standards, and our classes follow a strategically designed, age- and level-appropriate curriculum. Every year, our instructors are background checked and CPR certified. Our lead instructor is a second-degree blackbelt and is required to complete an Instructor Certification Program (ICP) each year. This ensures he’s up to date and well versed in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction, including safety, techniques, Gracie Barra values and methods and more.