FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1)  Do you have classes for beginners?

Yes!  All of our classes offer instruction for beginners, as well as for our more advanced students.  Please visit our class schedule page for specifics.

2)  How do I set up a free introductory lesson at your Academy?

It’s simple!  Please send us an e-mail (go to the contact page on this website, or e-mail head instructor Eric Burdo at <CLICK HERE FOR EMAIL> , or give us a call at (804)249-6509, and we’d be more than happy to schedule a free introductory lesson with you. 

Your free intro lesson will provide you the opportunity to visit our Academy, meet us and our students, ask any questions you might have, and most importantly, learn some techniques! 

When you come in, please wear comfortable workout clothing (shorts and a t-shirt, etc.), bring an open mind for learning, and be ready to get a great workout! 

3) If I want to join your Academy, do I have to sign a long-term contract?


No.  Most Martial Arts Academies will only give you the option of signing a long-term contract (anywhere from 1-3 years). We have many different time commitments and pricing structures for you to choose from. Our Academy has a stellar reputation, offering safe, effective, top-notch instruction.

With that in mind, we believe that once you train with us, you will want to stick around and train.  We don't have to rope anyone into long-term contracts.

4)  What will I need for training/safety equipment?

For our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program, you will need to purchase a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi (also referred to as a Kimono). 

For our Muay Thai program, you will purchase two Muay Thai Program T- Shirts and a pair of Muay Thai shorts to wear for our classes.  You will also need a pair of 16oz. Boxing Gloves. You may also wish to purchase a groin protector, Shin Pads/Guards, and a mouthpiece.

We have high-quality gear very competitively priced for sale at the Academy.  If we are sold out of what you need, or if you would prefer another type of gear than we may have in stock, please check out our links page on this website for links to good Martial Arts gear companies.

5)  What are your classes like?

A typical Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class starts with a warm-up, drills, and a stretch (about 20 minutes).  We will then go into technique, where you will learn and practice with a partner (about 45 minutes).  At the end of the technique portion, we will do a review of the techniques, and answer any questions about the lesson.  From there, the class becomes an “open mat”, where students can continue practicing and drilling techniques, or practice in controlled sparring.  The open mat portion of class is optional, but most stick around and practice and/or spar.

A typical Muay Thai class starts with a warm-up, “shadow boxing”, and a stretch.  The technique portion of the class follows, working combinations on the Focus Mitts and Thai Pads, followed by endurance round(s).  Advanced students have the option to do rounds of light sparring on most days. 

6)  Do you have levels/belt ranks?

Yes.  In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there is a Belt system.  For young adults (up to Age 15), the belt system is White, Yellow, Orange, and Green.  At Age 15, you can start earning Adult Belts.  The Adult Belt system is White, Blue, Purple, Brown, and Black.  We have different requirements to obtain each belt.

For our Muay Thai program, we also have different levels.  You will start with basic techniques such as stance, footwork, basic boxing, and basic Muay Thai kicks, as well as defenses and counters.  As you progress through our developed levels, you will learn more close-range techniques such as clinch work, elbows and knees.

All of our testing at the Academy is free!
  
7)  How long will it take me to get proficient in my Self-Defense skills?

Ultimately, this completely depends on the individual.  Consistency will be the largest factor for a student to become proficient.  Just like any other activity, the more time and effort you commit, the faster you will see results.  Our Instructor staff is very much committed to making sure that you are learning properly, and you will see results right off the bat!

8)  Do you offer private lessons?

Yes!  Private one-on-one lessons are available upon request.  Please call (804)249-6509, or e-mail Eric Burdo to schedule a private lesson.