Questions, answered
How old do you have to be?
Teen classes and the youth squad are for ages 12 to 17, and adult classes are for 18 and up. Saturday open mat takes members 14 and up.
Can I watch a class?
Yes. Parents and friends sit on the bench along the wall at any class, with phones on silent. Belt tests have the same rules, and we ask for no flash.
What do I wear to my first class?
A plain t-shirt and shorts or loose pants, with no jewelry, short nails and hair tied back. You train barefoot. Ask the front desk about a uniform to borrow for the first class.
What is a class like?
We bow in, warm up and practice falling. Then your coach shows a grip and a throw, and you drill it with a partner. Adult classes and the squad finish with randori: live practice at a pace you and your partner agree on.
Can teens and adults train together?
Teen classes and squad practices are for ages 12 to 17, and adult classes are for 18 and up. Saturday open mat is the one session where members 14 and up train together, with a coach on the mat.
Do I need to be fit or flexible?
No. Classes start with a warm-up and falling practice, and your coach adjusts the drills to where you are.
How do belts work?
Belts run from white to black with five colors between. Your coach promotes you when they see the skills, at a belt test at the end of a session, and every student moves at their own pace.
What is the term, and how do I cancel?
Squad and adult plans start with a 12-month term and then run month to month. To cancel, tell us in writing with 30 days' notice; the month in progress is billed. Ask us about pausing for injury or travel.
What happens if I miss a class?
Join the same level in another group that week or the next. If you will be away for longer, ask us about pausing.
Do I have to compete?
No. The squad goes to tournaments and entering is each family's choice. Adults who want to compete can tell us at Tuesday randori, and the club tournament in the spring is open to every member.
Another question?
Write to the front desk or call, and we will answer within a working day.