Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport focused on grappling and ground fighting. Unlike striking-based martial arts like karate or boxing, jiu jitsu emphasizes technique and leverage over strength and size.

The core principle: a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent through proper technique, positioning, and submissions (joint locks and chokes).

Gi Jiu Jitsu (also called "in the gi"):

• Training done wearing the traditional jiu jitsu gi (uniform) consisting of a jacket, pants, and belt

• Emphasizes grips on the gi for control and submissions

• Generally slower-paced, more methodical

• Focus on technique and leverage

• Often considered "traditional" BJJ

NoGi Jiu Jitsu:

• Training done in athletic wear (rashguard and shorts/spats)

• No gi grips available – must use body control and underhooks

• Faster-paced, more dynamic, while also focusing on technique

• Emphasizes wrestling and leg locks

Which should you choose?

Both! Most students at Queen City train both gi and nogi to develop well-rounded jiu jitsu skills. If you're new, we recommend starting with gi classes to learn fundamental technique, then adding nogi as you progress.

Both! That's one of the beautiful things about Brazilian jiu jitsu – it serves multiple purposes.

At Queen City Jiu Jitsu, we teach both aspects. Our curriculum emphasizes self-defense fundamentals while also preparing students who want to compete. You choose your own path – whether that's pure self-defense, competition, fitness, or all of the above.

• Comfortable athletic clothes

• T-shirt or rashguard

• Athletic shorts or sweatpants (no pockets, zippers, or buttons that could catch)

• Bring a water bottle

No special equipment needed for your first class!

Absolutely not! Jiu jitsu will get you in shape. We have students of all fitness levels, ages, and body types.

Brazilian jiu jitsu training is one of the best workouts you'll ever do – but we scale intensity to your current fitness level. You'll improve gradually as you train consistently.

Don't wait to "get in shape" before starting. Start now and let jiu jitsu be your fitness program.

Not at all! The majority of our students started with zero martial arts experience. BJJ classes at Queen City are designed to accommodate complete beginners alongside experienced grapplers.

You'll learn at your own pace with instruction scaled to your experience level. “A Black Belt is a White Belt that never quit.”

Honest answer: Jiu jitsu is a lifelong journey. You'll feel competent after 6-12 months of consistent training, but there's always more to learn.

The key? Consistency. Showing up 2-3 times per week beats sporadic training every time.

Hygiene is non-negotiable in jiu jitsu. We train in close contact, so cleanliness protects everyone.

We maintain a clean facility and expect all students to do their part. 

Good hygiene = healthy training community. Including both body and clothing.