Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know Before You Hit the Mats
Kids Classes FAQ's
Ortiz Martial Arts offers age-specific classes: 3–5 years, 6–9 years, and 10–14 years. Each group has a tailored curriculum to match their developmental stage. More about Our kids classes
For the free trial, kids can wear a T-shirt and shorts or exercise pants—just avoid clothing with zippers or pockets.
Not at all! The kids' classes are beginner-friendly and focus on building confidence, discipline, and foundational Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) skills.
Yes, parents are encouraged to observe. It helps you understand what your child is learning and how the program supports their growth.
These sessions focus on BJJ basics through fun games and interactive drills, helping kids develop coordination and listening skills in a playful environment.
Sparring is optional and will be introduced in the sessions once the student has the level and ability. Sparring is never required and is always supervised to ensure safety.
Yes. Once enrolled, kids are expected to wear a full Gi ( White, Blue, or Black) with the team's logo. For No-Gi sessions the team’s No-Gi uniform is required.
Beyond physical fitness, kids build self-esteem, discipline, and social skills. The structured environment also helps with focus and emotional regulation.
Classes are separated by age and skill level. Instructors pair students thoughtfully and foster a respectful, encouraging atmosphere.
You can register online or at the academy. Just arrive 15 minutes early to complete forms and meet the instructors.
For many families, it may take several attempts before a young student feels comfortable enough to join or complete a full class. This is completely normal and part of the adjustment process. It allows the student to get used to the class environment at their own pace. Parents are encouraged to speak with our instructors for feedback and guidance on how to best support their child during this stage.
Once your child turns 6, you’re welcome to speak with the instructors about whether they’re ready to move into the next age group. Based on the student’s progress, size, and maturity, the coach may transition them into the Kids 6–9 Program, or recommend they remain in the Kids 3–5 Program a little longer to continue building on their current development.
Students who are in Level 02 typically move directly into Level 02 of the next program, skipping Level 01. While this transition might take a little more time, it ensures that students enter the new age group with the confidence and readiness to thrive.
Students are welcome to compete once the instructors feel they’re ready. Competitions offer valuable learning experiences, but it's important that students understand what to expect before entering. A great way to prepare is to ask the instructors about upcoming local events and bring your child along to watch their teammates. This allows them to observe the environment, build interest, and decide whether they’d like to participate in a future competition.
All new students begin at white belt and progress through the belt system by earning stripes and promotions based on their attendance, effort, and technical improvement. In the early stages, students typically earn a stripe every month, with most reaching grey & white belt in about 8 months. From there, it usually takes around one year to be promoted to grey belt.
If you have any questions about the promotion process or your child’s progress, feel free to speak with one of the instructors — they’re always happy to guide you through the system.
We allow parents to take short videos or photos of their child during drills and exercises, but recording is not permitted during sparring. Photos and short videos are also allowed during your child’s promotion.
Adult Classes FAQ's
Not at all. The academy offers beginner-friendly classes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), No-Gi, MMA, and Self Defence. Whether you're brand new or returning after a break, there's a class for you.
For your free trial, wear a T-shirt and shorts or exercise pants—just avoid anything with zippers or pockets.
Gi classes use the traditional BJJ uniform (kimono), while No-Gi classes are done in rashguards and shorts. Each style emphasizes different grips and techniques.
Sparring is completely optional. It’s encouraged for progression but never mandatory—especially for beginners.
Yes. There are dedicated beginner and intermediate BJJ classes. Intermediate sessions are recommended for those with at least a White Belt 3 Stripes or higher.
Absolutely. While there isn’t a separate women’s program yet, classes are mixed and instructors aim to pair women together if preferred.
Unlimited access to Gi, No-Gi, and MMA classes, six days a week. Yearly memberships also include a free uniform and private session.
The Beginners BJJ are ideal starting points. They focus on foundational techniques and don’t require prior experience.
You can register online or in person. Just arrive 15 minutes early to complete forms and meet the instructors.
Classes are structured by skill level, and instructors ensure safe pairings and controlled sparring. Respect and safety are core values at the academy.
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Featured Testimonials
The professors here are amazing, super inspiring and supportive all the time, I used to go when I was around 7 then stopped shortly after and came back when I was 13, I am now 15 and possibly going to the world championships this year. So just give it a go and you’ll definitely enjoy it!!

BJJ Classes FAQ's
Yes! Ortiz Martial Arts offers dedicated Beginners BJJ classes that focus on the fundamentals—perfect for those with no prior experience.
Beginners classes cover foundational techniques and drills, while Intermediate sessions are designed for students with at least a White Belt 3 Stripes, focusing on more advanced, sport-specific techniques.
For your trial, you can wear a T-shirt and shorts. Once enrolled, a proper Gi (white, blue, or black) is required. No patches from other gyms are allowed.
Classes usually include a warm-up, technique instruction, partner drills, and optional sparring. Each session is led by experienced instructors who guide you through every step.
Not at all. Sparring is optional and introduced gradually. It’s encouraged for growth but never required—especially for beginners.
Yes. No-Gi classes are open to all levels and use rashguards and shorts instead of the traditional Gi. Prior BJJ experience is recommended but not required.
Teens aged 10 and up may join mixed classes with adults, depending on their experience and comfort level. There are also separate teen classes available.
This advanced class is for students preparing for tournaments. Participation requires instructor approval and a commitment to the full session.
BJJ classes run multiple times a week, including Beginners, Intermediate, No-Gi, and Competition sessions. You can check the official timetable for current scheduling.
You can sign up online or in person. Just arrive 15 minutes early to complete forms and meet the team before stepping on the mats.
No-Gi BJJ Classes FAQ's
No-Gi BJJ is a grappling style practiced without the traditional kimono (Gi). Instead, students wear rashguards and shorts, and the techniques focus more on body control and speed rather than grip-based submissions.
No-Gi classes are open to all levels, but having some experience in Gi BJJ is recommended. Beginners are welcome and will be grouped appropriately based on skill level.
You’ll need a black, white, or ranked rashguard and black or white shorts with no pockets, zippers, or belts. Spats underneath are optional.
Sparring is optional and never mandatory. It’s encouraged for progression but always conducted in a safe, controlled environment.
Yes. No-Gi sessions are typically mixed with teens and adults (ages 10+), but students are paired thoughtfully to ensure safety and comfort.
Classes include a warm-up, technique instruction, partner drills, and optional sparring. The focus is on No-Gi-specific grips, transitions, and submissions.
You can absolutely focus on No-Gi if that’s your preference. Many students cross-train in both styles, but it’s not a requirement.
Yes. Ortiz Martial Arts supports students who wish to compete in No-Gi tournaments. Speak with an instructor about eligibility and preparation.
No-Gi classes are offered multiple times a week. You can view the current schedule on the official timetable.
You can register online or in person. Just arrive 15 minutes early to complete forms and meet the instructors before class begins.
MMA Classes FAQ's
MMA classes combine striking techniques (like boxing and kickboxing) with grappling and submissions from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Classes focus on transitions between standing and ground combat.
- Some experience in either striking or grappling is recommended. If you're brand new, it's suggested to start with BJJ or Self Defence classes first.
Wear a rashguard and shorts with no pockets, zippers, or belts. Mouthguards and MMA gloves are recommended for sparring. Bring a towel, water bottle, and footwear for off-the-mat movement.
Yes. MMA classes are open to teens aged 10+ and adults. Teens are encouraged to arrange a training partner beforehand for the best experience.
Sparring is optional and always conducted under supervision. Light sparring may be included depending on the class focus and student readiness.
Classes typically include warm-ups, striking and grappling drills, technique sequences, and optional sparring. The curriculum emphasizes real-world application and controlled intensity.
Absolutely. While there isn’t a separate women’s program yet, classes are mixed and instructors aim to pair women together if preferred.
MMA classes are offered multiple times a week. You can check the current schedule on the official timetable.
For beginners, a rashguard and shorts are sufficient. As you progress, you may want to invest in MMA gloves, shin guards, and a mouthguard for sparring.
You can register online or in person. Just arrive 15 minutes early to complete forms and meet the instructors before class begins.
Self Defence Classes FAQ's
These classes are open to both teens (ages 10+) and adults. They’re ideal for anyone looking to build confidence, awareness, and practical skills—no prior martial arts experience needed.
The curriculum focuses on real-world scenarios using Brazilian Jiu Jitsu-based techniques. You’ll learn how to escape holds, defend against grabs, and stay safe in common street situations.
Not at all. Sparring is not required in these sessions. The emphasis is on technique, control, and situational awareness—not competition or combat.
Comfortable athletic wear is perfect—T-shirt and shorts or exercise pants. Avoid clothing with zippers or pockets. Bring a towel, water bottle, and footwear for off-the-mat movement.
Absolutely. Self Defence classes are structured for people with little to no martial arts background. Instructors guide you step-by-step through each technique.
Yes. Self Defence classes are mixed-age, allowing teens and adults to train side by side. Instructors ensure pairings are appropriate and safe.
Each session includes a warm-up, technique breakdown, partner drills, and scenario-based practice. The focus is on building confidence and muscle memory.
These classes run multiple times a week. You can check the current schedule on the official timetable.
Not currently, but women are welcome in all classes. Instructors aim to pair women together if preferred, and the environment is respectful and inclusive.
You can register online or in person. Just arrive 15 minutes early to complete forms and meet the instructors before class begins.
Competition Classes FAQ's
This class is designed for students preparing for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournaments. It focuses on high-intensity drills, advanced techniques, and competition-style sparring.
Participation is by instructor approval only. Students must demonstrate commitment, technical proficiency, and a readiness for the demands of competitive training.
Students should be at least White Belt 3 Stripes or higher and have consistent training experience. This class is not suitable for beginners.
Sessions include intense warm-ups, advanced technique sequences, positional sparring, and full rounds under competition rules. Expect a fast pace and focused coaching.
Yes. Students are expected to participate in the entire class to ensure proper progression and team cohesion.
While active competition is encouraged, it’s not mandatory. However, students must train with the same intensity and mindset as if preparing for a tournament.
A clean Gi (white, blue, or black) with no external patches is required. For No-Gi sessions, wear ranked rashguards and black or white shorts with no zippers or pockets.
The primary Competition Class is Gi-based, but students preparing for No-Gi events are also supported. Speak with an instructor for tailored guidance.
It runs weekly—currently on Fridays from 6:20pm to 7:50pm. Check the official timetable for updates and additional sessions.
Speak directly with your instructor. They’ll assess your readiness based on skill level, consistency, and attitude during regular classes.

Free Trial Classes, Free Uniform, Free Private Lesson with No enrolment fee when you sign up with us.
Enjoy the Benefits of Martial Arts
- Improve physical fitness and coordination
- Learn how to Defend yourself
- Build confidence and discipline
- Join a supportive and welcoming community