Welcome to your adventure in Jiu Jitsu. As you step onto the mat, you’re entering a new—and sometimes overwhelming—arena. This guide is here to answer your most common questions about starting your journey, especially what to expect in your first class.

WHAT IS JIU JITSU?

Jiu Jitsu is a ground-based martial art that uses leverage and technique to control an opponent. Developed by the Gracie family, it was specifically designed so that a smaller person could effectively defend themselves—even against a larger, stronger attacker.

Jiu Jitsu is incredibly practical for real-world self-defense, but it also offers a deep competitive sport and a path of lifelong learning.

WHY DO PEOPLE TRAIN JIU JITSU?

People come to Jiu Jitsu for many reasons: self-defense, fitness, stress relief, confidence, or curiosity. But many stay for the community, the mental challenge, and the transformation that happens on and off the mat.

Along the way, students gain:

  • Better physical health and mobility

  • Increased mental toughness and resilience

  • Meaningful relationships and team support

  • A renewed sense of confidence and purpose

The benefits go far beyond martial arts—Jiu Jitsu becomes a way of life.

DO I NEED TO BE IN SHAPE FIRST?

Not at all. Whether you’re already active or completely new to exercise, you are welcome here. We’re all on a journey, and Jiu Jitsu is adaptable to any body type, fitness level, or background. Everyone starts somewhere. Just show up.

WHY DO PEOPLE CHOOSE DEVINE JIU JITSU?

Many of our students have trained elsewhere—but they call Devine Jiu Jitsu home.

Here’s why:

  • A welcoming, laid-back atmosphere where everyone feels like part of the team

  • High-quality instruction rooted in fundamentals and real-world application

  • Head instructors on the mats daily, not behind a desk

  • A tight-knit community, not just a training facility

Whether you want to get in shape, learn self-defense, compete, or simply find a supportive group of people to grow with, our mission is to help you reach your goals.

After a short time training at Devine Jiu Jitsu, you’ll notice it’s more than just a gym—it’s a second home.

OUR CULTURE

Being a student at Devine Jiu Jitsu means becoming part of our ohana—our family. We train with humility and respect, treating others with kindness and looking out for one another. We roll hard, stay safe, and grow together.

JIU JITSU IS A CONTACT SPORT

You will sweat. You’ll be in close physical contact with others. You might feel overwhelmed or unsure at first—and that’s okay. Everyone starts there.

But what you should never feel is pain. Jiu Jitsu is based on control, not brutality. We protect each other. We train with care. We roll to learn, not to hurt.

As Professor Scott Devine says, “The roll is the reward.”

NOT READY TO JUMP IN?

You're more than welcome to watch a class, meet the instructor, and ask questions before trying it yourself.

That said, the best way to improve in Jiu Jitsu is to get on the mat and train consistently. Repetition, movement, and feedback are what help you grow.

PRICING

We keep our pricing simple and affordable, with options to fit your schedule and goals.

Membership Options

$50 / Month
– One class per week

$75 / Month
– Two classes per week

$20 / Class
– Pay-as-you-go option

Family Discounts Available

Training together? Ask us about special family pricing.

Extras

  • First Class – Free
    Come try a class with no obligation. We’d love to meet you and answer any questions.

  • Open Mat – Free
    Open mats are scheduled spontaneously on weekends, holidays, or special occasions. They're open to everyone—not just members—and offer a great chance for extra training, drilling, or casual rolls.

Drop-In Policy

We love having visitors on the mats—whether you're part of the Devine family or just passing through.

If you're an active member of a Devine Jiu Jitsu affiliate, you're welcome to drop in for free!
Just complete use our CONTACT FORM to let us know when you’ll be visiting.

Not part of a Devine affiliate? No problem!
You're welcome to join us for any class.

  • Drop-in fee: $20 per class

  • To attend, simply SIGN UP HERE and complete our waiver.

PERSONAL HYGIENE

Clean training partners make for a safer, more respectful mat environment. Please:

  • Shower before class

  • Trim fingernails and toenails

  • Tie up long hair

  • Brush your teeth

  • Wash your gi after every class

  • Wash your belt

✅ Yes—wash your belt. It’s cotton. It absorbs sweat and touches everything.

Use antibacterial soap if you prefer, and always shower after training. Stay off the mats if you're sick, injured, or unsure. When in doubt, ask.

WHAT TO WEAR

For your first class, you don’t need to own a gi. Wear:

  • T-shirt or rashguard

  • Board shorts or athletic pants (no belt loops, pockets, buttons, or zippers)

  • Optional: mouthguard, knee brace, ear guards, etc.

After a few classes, if you decide to stick with it, you’ll need to buy a gi. Any color or brand is fine—just make sure it fits well and is clean.

YOUR FIRST CLASS

  • Arrive 10–15 minutes early

  • Sign a waiver

  • Introduce yourself to the instructor

  • Get dressed and stretch before class begins

CLASS STRUCTURE

🔹Warm-Up

Most classes begin with light warmups, solo drills, and body movement exercises:

  • Jogging

  • Shrimping

  • Breakfalls

  • Umpas

Don’t worry if you can’t do everything perfectly. Just follow along. You'll get it with time.

🔹 Technique

Next, the instructor will demonstrate a technique. You’ll pair with a partner and drill that movement under supervision. Some classes focus on fundamentals, others on chains and sequences.

Over time, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of how techniques connect—and how to apply them.

🔹 Rolling (Live Sparring)

Most classes end with rolling, or "live sparring," where you try techniques in real time with a resisting partner. Rolls begin with a hand slap and fist bump, and they can be timed or untimed depending on the day.

You are never required to roll with someone you don’t feel comfortable with.

BASIC RULES FOR ROLLING

  • No striking or kicking

  • No eye-gouging or hair pulling

  • No slams

  • No small joint manipulation (e.g., fingers)

  • No neck cranks

  • No leg locks for beginners

TAPPING: YOUR SAFETY VALVE

If you’re caught in a submission, feel trapped, or just need a break—tap.

  • Tap the mat, your partner, or say “tap!” clearly

  • Always stop immediately when your partner taps

  • Tap early, tap often

There is no shame in tapping. It’s how we protect each other and learn.

FUNDAMENTALS FIRST

Jiu Jitsu begins with mastering key positions:

  • Guard

  • Side Control

  • Mount

  • Back Mount

You’ll also learn how to escape, pass, sweep, and transition between these positions.

Core Principle: Position Before Submission
Gain control before going for a submission. Control creates safety, leverage, and opportunity.

Mastering this principle will guide your entire game.

BELT COLORS AND STRIPES

  • White – Novice

  • Blue – Beginner

  • Purple – Intermediate

  • Brown – Advanced

  • Black – Expert

Progress is marked by stripes and belts—but belt rank is only part of the journey. Promotions are earned through time, skill, trust, and consistent effort.

Belts are awarded by the instructor when you’re ready—not on a fixed timeline.

Kids and teens follow a different belt system based on age and experience.

START YOUR JOURNEY

Whether you’re here for fitness, self-defense, competition, or connection—there’s a place for you at Devine Jiu Jitsu.

We’re glad you’re here. We hope to see you on the mats!