FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

NEW TO BJJ?

Thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but not sure what to expect?

Here are some of the questions we get asked most often.

GETTING STARTED

Do I need any previous experience?

No.

Highlander's classes are beginner friendly. You don't need any previous martial arts experience and you won't be expected to know anything when you arrive.

We'll teach you.

Do I need to be fit or strong?

No.

You don't need to get fit before starting BJJ.

Your fitness, strength, coordination and confidence will develop as you train.

What happens in my first class?

You'll learn some basic movements and techniques, work with a training partner and become familiar with how we train.

You won't be thrown straight into anything you're not ready for.

If you're nervous, that's completely normal.

Do I have to spar on my first day?

No.

You'll learn the basics first.

As you become comfortable, live training, or "rolling", becomes an important part of learning BJJ.

What should I wear?

This depends on the class.

Gi classes: You'll eventually need a BJJ gi.

No-Gi classes: Suitable sportswear such as shorts and a rash guard or training top.

If you're unsure what to wear for your first session, contact us and we'll tell you what you need.

Do I need to buy a gi before my first class?

No.

There's no need to buy equipment before you've decided whether BJJ is for you.

If you're unsure what you need, speak to us and we'll explain what is appropriate.

TRAINING AT HIGHLANDER

What is rolling?

Rolling is the term BJJ practitioners use for live grappling.

Rather than simply practising a technique, both training partners try to apply what they've learned against resistance.

At Highlander, rolling should be controlled, technical and appropriate to the people involved.

Is BJJ dangerous?

Like any contact sport, there is a risk of injury.

Training safely and respecting your training partners is a fundamental part of BJJ.

THE TAP IS SACRED.

If someone taps, release immediately.

Do I have to compete?

No.

Some Highlander members train to compete. Others train for fitness, self-defence, personal development or simply because they enjoy BJJ.

Competition is an option, not a requirement.

How often should I train?

There is no single correct answer.

Start with a schedule you can maintain consistently.

Even a couple of sessions a week can provide a great foundation.

As you progress, you may find yourself wanting to train more often.

WHO CAN TRAIN?

Do you have children's and youth classes?

Yes.

Highlander provides BJJ training for children, young people and adults.

Our younger members learn BJJ in an age-appropriate environment while developing coordination, confidence, discipline and grappling skills.

No previous experience is required.

Am I too old to start?

No.

People start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at many different ages.

You don't have to be young, athletic or particularly flexible to begin.

Your training can develop at a pace appropriate to your experience and ability.

Can women train at Highlander?

Absolutely.

BJJ is suitable for people of different ages, sizes, strengths and backgrounds.

You don't need to be the biggest or strongest person in the room.

Is Highlander only for beginners?

No.

Beginners are always welcome, but experienced practitioners can also continue to develop their BJJ at Highlander.

COMPETITION & PROGRESS

Is Highlander suitable for competitors?

Yes.

Highlander's coaching team has extensive competition experience.

Head coach Ethan Beaumont is a BJJ black belt, while Erin Beaumont is a BJJ brown belt with high-level competition experience, including IBJJF European Championship gold.

Whether you want to compete or simply train, you're welcome at Highlander.

What belts are there in BJJ?

For adults, the belt system progresses:

White → Blue → Purple → Brown → Black

There is no fixed timetable for progressing through the belts.

BJJ is a long-term journey, and progress comes through consistent training, learning and applying your skills.

Are Highlander's classes beginner friendly?

Yes.

You don't need to wait until you're experienced before joining the regular timetable.

Start where you are. We'll teach you the rest.

READY TO TRY BJJ?

You don't need to be fit.

You don't need to be strong.

You don't need previous martial arts experience.

YOU JUST NEED TO START.

Come along, meet the team and experience Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for yourself.