Good questions
FAQs
Everything beginners actually ask, answered honestly. Anything missing? Ask us directly.
Adults
What should I wear to my first class?
Shorts or leggings and a t-shirt - nothing with zips, buttons or pockets, which can scratch you or a partner. You do not need a gi for your first class; if you carry on training we will help you choose one. Bring a water bottle and flip-flops for walking off the mat.
Am I too old or too unfit to start?
No. We have beginners in their forties and fifties, and nobody arrives fit for jiu-jitsu - the fitness comes from training, not before it. Classes scale to you: you drill at your own pace and sparring is always optional while you find your feet.
Is BJJ safe? Will I get hurt?
Jiu-jitsu is a contact sport, but it is built around control rather than striking, and tapping early is the culture here - you concede a position, reset and go again. Beginners are paired with experienced partners who look after them. Knocks and aches happen; serious injuries are rare and we coach hard to keep it that way.
What about hygiene?
Simple mat etiquette: come with clean kit and trimmed nails, cover any cuts, and skip training if you have anything contagious like ringworm until it is cleared. Mats are cleaned daily. It sounds strict, but it is what keeps everyone training.
I have never done any martial art. Will I be thrown in at the deep end?
No. Your first classes are about learning to move, a handful of core positions and how to train safely with a partner. Nobody expects you to spar on day one - watch a couple of rounds, join in when you are ready.
How do belts and gradings work?
Adult BJJ has five belts: white, blue, purple, brown and black, with stripes in between. There are no grading fees or exam days - your coach promotes you when your jiu-jitsu is ready. At Novo Eastbourne, progress and membership are tracked through the MAAT app, so you can always see where you are.
Do both gyms use the MAAT app?
No - the MAAT app is for Novo Eastbourne only. Hastings HQ memberships are arranged at the gym: message @novobjj on Instagram or come along to a session and the team will set you up.
Parents and kids
What age can my child start?
Kids classes start from age 6. Sessions are grouped by age and size so smaller children are never overpowered, and coaches keep the ratio tight so every child gets attention.
What does a kids class look like?
Games that build movement and coordination, a technique taught step by step, and supervised partner work. It is structured and disciplined, but the kids are having too much fun to notice.
Is it safe for children?
Kids jiu-jitsu is grappling only - no striking. Coaches supervise every pairing, matching children by size and experience, and teach control and respect for a partner from the very first lesson.
What does my child need to wear?
Shorts and a t-shirt for the first few sessions - no zips or buttons. Long hair tied back, nails trimmed, and a water bottle. If they continue we will help you get a gi in the right size.
Do parents stay and watch?
You are welcome to stay and watch, and most parents do for the first few weeks. Some children actually settle faster once mum or dad is out of eyeline - the coaches will guide you on what works.
How do kids belts and gradings work?
Children move through their own belt system (white through green) with stripes awarded regularly for effort, attendance and attitude. Progress is tracked in the MAAT app and there are no grading fees - promotions happen in class when they are earned.
First class free.
No experience, no gi, no problem. Book below or just turn up ten minutes early.
Performance Fitness Gym, 14C Maple Road, Eastbourne BN23 6NY