Rival Jiu‑Jitsu Frequently Asked Questions

Answer: We offer a well-rounded curriculum which includes Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu, No-Gi Grappling, Muay Thai, and Karate. Classes are available for both kids and adults. Brazilian Jiu‑Jitsu focuses on ground-based self-defense and teaches students how to control and submit an opponent using leverage and technique rather than strength. Our No-Gi classes teach the same core grappling concepts while adapting them to more realistic situations without the traditional uniform, making them highly practical and dynamic.

For students interested in striking, we offer Muay Thai, often called the “Art of Eight Limbs”, which develops powerful punches, kicks, knees, and elbows along with strong conditioning and confidence. Younger students can begin their martial arts journey in our Kids Karate program, where they’ll build discipline, focus, respect, and learn practical self-defense skills in a structured, supportive environment.

Together, these programs give students of all ages the opportunity to develop fitness, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills through multiple martial arts disciplines.

Answer: Our "Mat Maniacs" can start as young as 5 years old.

Answer: The martial arts are an extremely safe activity. Because of the way our program is taught, most situations that can cause injuries are entirely eliminated. In fact, many studies have shown that because of the emphasis on control, martial arts is one of the safest activities around. From the beginning to the end of the class, we keep a sharp eye on everything that goes on. Of course, like in any contact sport, occasional bumps and bruises are possible, but we work our hardest to make sure that they are very rare.

Answer: The answer is a definite, "yes!" In fact, the martial arts are ideal for children who aren't naturally athletic. Why? Well, in organized sports like little league or soccer, much of the activity revolves around team performance and understanding the rules of the game. Naturally, some children catch on quicker than others, leaving the less experienced kids sitting out. This creates a vicious cycle until eventually, their self-esteem suffers and they don't feel like playing. In our martial art program, every child is given individual attention and has an opportunity to shine in a variety of areas. Each child can comfortably progress at his or her own pace, without feeling left out. We have a saying in our school, "there are absolutely no bench warmers in our family."

Answer: Well to put it simply, it is the most fun you can have in one hour, anywhere. If you watch one of our classes, you will see how our instructors are masters at blending education and entertainment. We call this Edu-tainment. We camouflage what would normally be seen as hard work (like exercise) into playful, game-like movements. And, it doesn't matter if it’s a child or adult program. All our classes are a blast, and everyone has the time of their life, but more than that, martial arts are inspiring and life-changing, from the mental to the physical. What could be more fun that?

Answer: We recommend between two and three times a week, though students may train up to five times per week if they desire.

Answer: There are usually 2 to 3 instructors at a time on the floor. We commonly have one head instructor with one or more assistants. 

Answer: Confidence is sometimes inherent, which means you are born with it. However, not many are so fortunate. For most people, confidence is developed, through a series of successes. However, we teach from an Eastern philosophy, which believes that in order to succeed, you must at times fail. We do not discourage or shame people into thinking failure is a bad thing. In fact, we teach failure is part of success! The more people try, the better they become. Instilling life-long confidence in a person is not an easy task, but we have done it time and time again. We have a long list of students who’ve developed confidence, self-esteem, and many more traits that have helped them to become tremendously successful.

Answer: We teach children from as young as 5 years old, to adults of any age. We utilize something called "age-specific training", meaning lessons are tailored to the needs of students at different developmental levels. As with any kind of education, if a child starts martial arts when they are very young, they will typically have an advantage that will benefit them throughout their childhood. But, martial arts does not discriminate. You are never too old to start reaping the rewards from martial arts training. In fact, when parents see the benefits their children gain, many of them become students themselves!

Answer: The answer for this one is a resounding yes! We have a good blend of girls and boys in our martial arts classes! Some people think that boys are more coordinated and capable. We throw all those stereotypes out with the garbage. All of our female students are capable, tough, strong and lethal warriors.