Question 1

What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Accepted Answer

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a submission based martial art and combat sport. It's central focus is the  skill of taking an opponent to the ground, controlling that opponent and using techniques to force them into submission via joint locks or chokeholds.

Question 2

Do I need any experience to start?

Accepted Answer

No former experience is necessary and all ages and levels of fitness can enjoy learning BJJ. We train together as a team and all levels are welcome to train with Leixlip Flow BJJ.  Our coaches are going to help you to learn new skills and we also encourage all our students to help develop other students, so we get better as a whole.

Question 3

Am I too old for BJJ?

Accepted Answer

We know its a cliche to say "You're never too old!" but you really never are! Jiu-jitsu is truly a martial art for everyone and there is a thriving community of senior practitioners all round the world. Although classes are in group we tailor our teaching to the individual, so you can take each class at your own pace.

Question 4

Is it safe for my child to train BJJ?

Accepted Answer

Definitely! JSBJJ have a thriving Juniors program that is well supervised and safe for children from 5+ to train, and we are bringing this same program to Leixlip Flow BJJ. Our kids program focuses on the core values of discipline, respect and hard work that prepares children for adult life, helping them to overcome modern problems including mental health issues, low self esteem and bulling.

Question 5

What equipment will I need?

Accepted Answer

You will need a Kimono, also known as a Gi, and a rashguard underneath - this is the standard uniform that BJJ practitioners wear when undertaking a journey to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We sell the Kimonos/Gi's and rashguards in our academy, but you can also buy your own and have JSBJJ and Leixlip Flow BJJ patches sewed onto your Kimono (we sell those patches also). 
You will also need flipflops to keep your feet clean as you come on and off the mats. You will also need a water bottle to keep you hydrated. Gumshield is advised, but not mandatory. 
We ask that you refrain from wearing watches, earrings, rings, bracelets and keep your nails short to avoid injuring your training partners.

Question 6

What measures do you take for safety of members?

Accepted Answer

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a very safe sport however it is essential that you take care of your training partners:
- Always respect the "tap"! Any person that holds a submission or choke past their partner's tap will be banned from the academy. 
- Fingers and toenails must be kept trimmed.
- Refrain from wearing watches, rings, bracelets and other items of jewelry while training.
- We advise you to wear a mouthguard, but this is not mandatory. 
- We have a zero tolerance policy for any bulling or harassing fellow training partners or instructors.

Question 7

What is 'no Gi' Jiu Jitsu?

Accepted Answer

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu without the Kimono or Gi is formally known as 'No Gi' and is an ever increasingly popular sport that uses all the basic takedown and submission techniques of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling and Judo, and incorporates them into a singular type of grappling. While we love to train in the kimono; which is largely regarded as the foundation of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, No Gi training is an essential part of a fully rounded grappling game. In a "No Gi" class you must wear a full length sleeve shirt and leggings and you must wear over the leggings grappling/MMA shorts, please without zippers or pockets.

Question 8

What is the sport etiquette?

Accepted Answer

1. Fingernails and toenails must be trimmed to a reasonable length so as not to injury your training partners.
2. Absolutely no shoes on the mats, only clean bare feet. Footwear must be stored in the areas provided. Please bring your flipflops to wear as you come on and off the mat. 
3. Appropriate clothing must be worn during the session. In our gym we wear a rashguard and Gi. In a "No Gi" class you must wear a full length sleeve rashguard and leggings and you must wear over the leggings grappling/MMA shorts, please without zippers or pockets. 
4. Your body must be free from jewelry including watches, bracelets and piercings during the session.
​5. We reserve the right to remove any persons in the academy who is deemed under the influence of intoxicating substances.
6. Foodstuffs are not to be eaten inside the academy at anytime. But please bring water to all classes.
7. Zero tolerance policy of bulling and harassment.
8. Keep yourself, your rashguard and kimono clean at all times.

Question 9

What is belt progression like in BJJ?

Accepted Answer

Belt progression in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is based on a combination of skill, experience, time on the mat, and personal growth. Unlike some martial arts, BJJ promotions are not based on testing or just attendance — they're earned through consistent training, technical improvement, and application of technique.

Adult belt ranks are:
White (beginner)
Blue
Purple
Brown
Black

We also award stripes on belts to indicate progress between belts.

The belt system for children in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is different from the adult system and is designed to help young students stay motivated, track their progress, and build confidence as they grow in the art.

Children under the age of 16 follow a colored belt progression that includes the following ranks:
White
Grey (with white, solid, and black variations)
Yellow (with white, solid, and black variations)
Orange (with white, solid, and black variations)
Green (with white, solid, and black variations)

Each belt color has up to three stages: white stripe, solid color, and black stripe. These represent increasing skill levels within each color. Stripes are also awarded between belts to mark progress and reward consistency, effort, and improvement.
Once a child turns 16, they may begin transitioning into the adult belt system, typically starting at blue belt, depending on their experience and instructor’s evaluation.

Your instructors will track your progress during your classes and when they think you are ready they will invite you to your graduation and belt progression!

Question 10

Why does Leixlip Flow BJJ take photos and videos in classes and events?

Accepted Answer

As a small, community-based academy, sharing photos and videos helps us promote our classes, celebrate student progress, and showcase the positive atmosphere at Leixlip Flow BJJ. Visual content is one of the most effective ways for small businesses to grow—helping attract new members, build trust, and strengthen our local reputation. It also allows parents and students to share in memorable moments and achievements from training.

Question 11

Do I need to give consent for photos or videos to be taken during classes at Leixlip Flow BJJ?

Accepted Answer

By attending classes or events at Leixlip Flow BJJ, you automatically give consent for photos and videos to be taken and possibly used for social media, website, or promotional purposes. If you prefer not to be included in any recordings or images, please inform an instructor before class, and we will make sure your preference is respected.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions