Where are you located?

Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is located at 1113 Raglan Parade, Warrnambool (Royal Bikes is located at the front of the building). Entry is via the main building and we are located in the room off to the left-hand side of the building.

What days/times are your classes?

Click on the link to see Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s training timetable.

Which classes are suitable for beginners?

Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu prides itself on making every class suitable for the beginner just starting out in their Jiu Jitsu Journey. For children aged from 4-15yrs, they are most welcome to book into any of our kids classes (either our Kinder Kids, Juniors, or Teens Brazilian Jiu Jitsu). Adult fundamental classes have been designed for anyone aged 16yrs+.

These classes have a mixture of beginners and experienced members training amongst each other. Everyone works together to bring the new members up to speed.

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu safe for beginners and children?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a very safe sport for all to train in AND compared to other sporting codes/martial arts, it has very few injuries. Football, rugby and netball have a much higher injury rate than Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Safety is a core principle at Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. We ensure both our curriculum, mat etiquette and training procedures are done with a safety-first approach. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is also great for injury prevention as it will teach you how to protect your body (positioning and how to fall correctly) as well as having the discipline to look after yourself (regular training, recovery and diet as well as improved social skills).

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu good for self-defence?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is fantastic for self-defence as it focuses on taking an aggressor to the ground, controlling them and using a number of techniques to submit them via joint locks or chokeholds. It’s ultimately been designed for the older person, child or females (basically anyone without the physical attributes to defend themselves) teaches technique and timing beats strength.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been adopted by military, police and security organisations worldwide. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is rated as the number one self-defence for females. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is great for children to learn and use as they don’t resort to striking (punching or kicking) to defend themselves.

What age can I enroll my child at Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

From four years upwards. Four might seem a little young to start but it can be the right age for a child to be introduced to social skills, structure, discipline, fitness, self-defence and developing co-ordination skills to name a few.

Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu recommends children as young a five go through our trial offer first to see if they are suited to our program and have the basic listening and attention skills that are required for class. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu trail offer goes for two weeks. At the end of two week’s, you’ll be able to judge from your child’s enthusiasm if they wish to continue their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey with us.

This way there is no pressure on the child to continue if it’s not for them OR they are a little too young/immature. In this case, we are more than happy to re-introduce them to our program when they are a little older.

What is the right age for kids to start training?

Every child is different. However, we believe that around five years is a good age to start a martial art such as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Our kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program caters for 4-15yr old’s and focuses on making self-defence and physical education fun. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uses conditioning and skill-oriented games to engage and challenge kids.

The benefits go way beyond the physical. It will also teach your kids valuable life skills such as courtesy, confidence, focus, discipline, teamwork, mental strength and self-control. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s Head Coach explains to kids when/where Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be used in relation to self-defence as well as breaking down level of force required to stop the threat. Our Head Coach also explain the difference between teasing versus verbal threats and verbal threats versus physical assault.

Do you offer a trial period?

Yes. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers a 2-week paid trial offer. The offer is available to anyone (child or adult) who has never trained in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu before. The trial costs $90 for adults & $70 for kids.

Do I automatically get signed up to membership after my trial period?

No. The trial period is an opportunity to see if both you and Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are a good fit for each other. Once the trial period has ended, you have the choice to sign up and continue your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey with Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You are under no obligation to continue training if you find Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not for you.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers:

• 15% discount for first responders/emergency services (must show proof of profession)
• 15% discount for three + family members

*Family discount is eligible for spouses and parents and children paying from a single bank account for all fees. To be eligible for the family discount, you must have a minimum of three family members signed up. **Discount only applies to those taking up direct debit membership.

Are there any fees?

Other than a weekly membership fee, Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu doesn’t charge:

• Sign up fees
• Joining fees
• Grading fees*

Please note: Memberships fees don’t cover the cost of seminars, entry into competitions or membership fee to any International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) or Australian Federation Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (AFBJJ). *Although Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu doesn’t charge grading fees, members who successful grade to their next coloured belt will incur an $80 fee. This fee covers the cost of their new coloured belt, ranked rashy and their grading certificate.

How do I sign up?

You can sign up either online or come into the club and do it. Click here to sign up online and select the right membership for yourself. Can I pause/suspend my membership? Yes, you can. You can pause/cancel your membership at any time. All we ask is for 30 days notification prior to your membership being cancelled or suspended.

Do I need to book in or register for class?

Yes. We recommend beginners and those wishing to sign up for our 2-week or 6-week trial, to book in so you secure a spot on the mats. This also allows us to keep an eye out for you.

What are the health benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

The health benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are endless. Both from a physical sense as well as your mental health. Not only will your fitness skyrocket, but you’ll become a much calmer person, be able to think more clearly, work under pressure and think outside the square.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is an intense, fast paced workout and one of the rare sports which is considered both an anaerobic and aerobic activity. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is the ultimate form of exercise and functional fitness for anyone wishing to become leaner, toned/ lose weight all whilst learning an effective style of self-defence. If you want to improve your health, confidence and athletic ability, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a must.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the best workouts you can get, and it provides far better results than a typical aerobic workout. It is also much more fun and interactive than most exercise programs, so you end up working out more and harder.

Many people practice it primarily for the health/exercise benefits, which increase muscle tone and reduce body fat while improving your balance, coordination, cardiovascular capacity, and muscular endurance.

I’ve never trained martial arts or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu before. Does that matter?

Not at all. Trying something new and in front of people can seem daunting at first but we ALL have a starting point, and trust me, we have all been there before. No one has walked in and mastered it on their first attempt.

We ask you to pace yourself and not to compare yourself to those of a higher rank. Your progress will come over time with consistent training. Our coaches pride themselves on assisting those new to the sport.

Do I need to be in shape before starting?

No, you don’t. It’s a common myth by all new members (which also delays them starting their Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey that they need to be ‘fit’ or ‘in shape’ before they start). It’s like tell a child they need to be smart before they start school.

You don’t need to be fit before you start. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gets you fit. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu fitness is unlike any other type of fitness you’ve experienced because:

• you’re training against a resisting partner (who is trying to beat you)
• you’re using different body parts that you’ve never used before
• you’re defending/attacking from your back and therefore have lost the ability to use your arms and legs like you would when running/cycling or when punching/kicking (like a striking sport such as boxing/karate)

Do I have to be strong to train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

No. The core fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is that the smaller, weaker person will be able to defeat the larger/stronger opponent by using technique and leverage.

Although over time, your body will become stronger based on working different muscles groups, improving your core strength and well as your cardio fitness.

Am I too old to train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

No such thing. It’s never too late to start training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The eldest in our club is 62 and our head coach has trained overseas with guys in their 70’s.

Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s program is designed to cater to everyone. Your age is only a number. If you don’t mind, your age doesn’t matter.

We know you won’t be able to move as quick as the younger guys at the club and that’s fine. You don’t have to. All students are encouraged to train within your limitations to reach your potential.

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu suitable for females?

Yes. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu methodology was designed for females in mind. Being a smaller, weaker person would be able to subdue a larger attacker/aggressor through using correct technique and leverage.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is rated as the number 1 self-defence system for females to learn due to the realistic style of the martial art (resulting from the venerable positions whilst being on the ground)

Meaning you are laying/pinned on your back, and how are you now going to defend yourself? You can go from being a possible victim to surviving the attack through correct training and remaining claim during the situation.

Does Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu have female only classes?

Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will be releasing a female only self-defence program. The classes are suitable for females 16+ of any fitness level looking at empowering themselves through practical and effective self-defence. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has designed a program as an overall self-defence system for females. The course will cover:

• stand up and ground phases applications
• self-awareness and environmental surroundings
• use of force and levels of force used
• situational awareness and pre-attack indicators

What will I learn at Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

The primary focus of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is to learn self-defence. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will teach you the fundamentals of self-defence, as well as the modern evolution of the martial art.

You will practice a range of techniques from standing up and being on the ground as well as from many different positions.

You’ll learn how to control resisting opponents on the ground, how to apply submissions effectively whilst remaining calm and in control of the situation.

What do I need to bring on my first class?

Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu recommends you bring an open mind, positive attitude and a wiliness to learn outside of our comfort zone. We recommend you bring a water bottle and sweat towel. Feel free to bring a mouth guard (not essential) as well lose comfortable clothing.

For adults, Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has training gi’s for you to borrow free of charge.

What equipment do I need?

Your uniform (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi, belt and ranked rashy). Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu recommends members purchase a mouth guard (personal preference) as well as a water bottle and towel.

Do I need any protective equipment?

We recommend people purchase a mouth guard for the protection of their teeth and jaw. These can be purchased at any sports store or dentist.

What do I wear whilst training?

During gi classes your uniform comprises of a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi, ranked belt and ranked rash guard (rashy). No-Gi classes comprise of boardshorts/fight shorts or compression pants as well as a rash guard.

If you are in your trial class, you can wear comfortable clothing, or Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can loan you a gi.

The main difference between a gi and a no-gi class is that there are more things grab onto and therefore more techniques to use during a gi class.

Do I need a uniform?

Yes. You’ll need a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uniform (gi) which is different to Karate/ Tae Kwon Do gi’s as these gi’s have been specifically designed for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You will not be able to train without one and can’t grade without your uniform (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi, belt and Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu ranked rashy).

What if I have my own uniform and or patches from another club?

Having you own uniform is fine. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s club policy is to remove any old club patches and replace them with Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu patches as soon as you become a member. Patches are available at the club for a fee.

Do you have uniforms available to purchase?

Yes. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has everything you’ll need regarding your uniform needs. Members are free to wear whatever coloured gi they wish but must have a white gi for gradings and seminars. Kids must wear a white gi.

*Note that IBJJF rules state that if you wish to compete, you can only compete in a white, blue or black coloured gi.

What is the rank structure of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Please click here to view the IBJJF rank structure.

*IBJJF = Internation Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation

How often does Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu hold gradings?

Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu holds gradings twice a year. They are usually held in June and December.

How long does it take to reach the next belt level?

As an adult it’ll take approximately two years of continuous training to reach the next coloured belt, however this is a sliding scale and not always a true time frame as there are many factors that influence achieving your next rank.

Demonstrating how good you are on the mat is a fraction of what is required and what senior coaches at Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu look for before they promote you. Other factors come into play such as attitude towards one’s peers on and off the mat, your character as a person, willingness to help others, welcoming new members to the club, etc.

How long does it take to become a black belt?

Unlike most other styles of martial arts where you can become a black belt within 3 years, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is very different. First, there is no kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt. Black belt is only reserved for adults and it’ll take approximately 10-14 years to achieve.

If you’re joining for the colour of the belt, you’re joining for the wrong reasons. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a journey not a race to see how quick you can get your next coloured belt.

Do I have to compete?

No. Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu doesn’t put any pressure on anyone to compete. It’s completely an individual preference. As a club, Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will inform everyone about upcoming competitions and the onus is up to the individual if they wish to enter that competition.

What if I want to compete?

Fantastic. Members at Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu don’t require any pre-approval to go away and compete. All we ask is that you notify the coaching staff which competition you are entering so they can advise you on registration requirements as well as preparing you for it.

How do I get started?

Click here and to enrol into your 2-week paid trial OR to sign up for membership.

To prepare for your first session at Warrnambool Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, please arrive 10 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothing with no zips, buttons or pockets (as they’ll rip/tear and may damage our mats/other members). We also recommend bring a water bottle and sweat towel.

“Jiu Jitsu teaches you how to survive on the mat and thrive in the world”.
– Rickson Gracie, 9^th Degree BJJ red belt and MMA fighter