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1. What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)?BJJ is a martial art focused on ground fighting, submissions, and leverage. It’s designed to allow a smaller, weaker person to control a larger opponent using technique and strategy. It’s a highly effective form of self-defence and a sport that builds strength, confidence, and discipline.
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2. Do I need prior experience to start?Our grappling culture is built on inclusivity and welcomes athletes of all skill levels. In fact, we thrive on working with beginners, as it allows us to instill our core principles, perspectives, and grappling style right from the start. By doing so, we ensure that you build a solid foundation and optimize your Jiu-Jitsu from day one. Our focus is on developing effective black belts. This means we approach training with carefully structured programming, concepts, and techniques that are not only applicable to all skill levels but are designed to elevate your grappling at every stage of your journey. We believe in teaching how to grapple just as much as how to learn —ensuring that each athlete, regardless of experience, is equipped with the tools to grow and succeed.
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3. What should I wear to my first class?6am Classes (Gi) - Moisture wicking and a tight fitting t-shirt or Rash guard if you have one - A Gi if you have one, otherwise we can lend you one meanwhile Midday and Evening Classes (No-Gi) - Shorts with no pockets or zips - Moisture wicking and a tight fitting t-shirt or Rash guard if you have one You’ll eventually want to get a Gi (for traditional BJJ) or No-Gi gear (rash guard and shorts), both of which we offer with our own team banners.
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4. What’s the difference between Gi and No-Gi BJJ?- Gi BJJ: You wear a kimono (gi) and use grips on the fabric to control and submit your opponent. - No-Gi BJJ: You train without the gi, focusing on body grips and faster-paced movement. All 6am and Kids/Pups sessions begin in the Gi, however may transition to the No-gi (by removing Gi tops) at the discretion of the instructor and/or Athletes depending on the structure of the class. All Lunch and Evening classes are intended for No-Gi, however Athletes are free to train either at their discretion during Open Mats and Structured Drilling sessions. A black gi is mandatory for all Grading Days and Formal Event Days. We believe in the power of tradition and the strength it brings to our community. By wearing the black gi, we stand united as a team, honoring our shared commitment to excellence and respect for the journey we are all on together.
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5. Do I have to wear Atlantic Grappling Team gear?No - However, below are MANDATORY for all Athletes on the Competition Team, but we ENCOURAGE all members to wear: Any & All Atlantic Grappling Team Apparel Any & All NEMEA Grapple Club Apparel Plain Black Training Apparel (Top & Bottom)(Gi & No-Gi) Contractually Obligated Sponsored Apparel For many reasons: 1. Aesthetics: We regularly film content during our training sessions to showcase our dedication and excellence. How you do somethings is how you do all things and so we truly believe that how we present ourselves in these moments is crucial, as it reflects not only the individual but also the entire program and the culture we represent. 2. Unity: Like any elite athletic program (e.g NBA, NHL, Collegiate level teams etc.), the team is defined by their unity with the use of uniforms, etiquette, culture and a code of conduct where any joining athlete would seamlessly integrate - we are no different here at Atlantic. 3. Respect, Pride & Honour: Training under the Atlantic banner is a privilege and an honour, and it should be treated with the utmost respect. We expect our athletes to carry themselves with the same standard of excellence and pride that has always defined this community. Together, we will continue to uphold these values and set the highest example in everything we do. 4. Self respect: How you present yourself is a direct reflection of how you view yourself. At Atlantic, we take pride in cultivating a community that opens doors to opportunities beyond the mats. We encourage every member to carry themselves with professionalism, much like they would in a professional workplace. This standard of conduct not only elevates the individual but also strengthens the collective identity of our team. This program was founded to stand as a united force, built to triumph against all odds. We expect our athletes to embrace this unity, to rise together, and to exemplify the resilience, strength, and dedication that define our team. Atlantic Grappling Team reserves the right to restrict or prohibit any garments that conflict with our values and standards at any time. This ensures that our team maintains the professionalism, respect, and unity that are the foundation of our culture. We understand this may not be for everyone, but you should understand that we are in the business of finding our own. Understand that we are proud to embody this culture and to have this culture define each individual who joins us. This is Atlantic. This is a Team This is the Vision.
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7. Do you offer trial classes?Unfortunately, we do not offer one-time trial classes. At Atlantic, we take great pride in the service and culture we provide, and we believe that our approach is best suited for athletes who are committed to their Jiu-Jitsu journey. Those who are serious about training and growing will find no reason to look elsewhere. Atlantic is built by athletes, for athletes—a place where serious Jiu-Jitsu practitioners come to unlock their full potential. Our culture and the effectiveness of our training are best understood through consistent time on the mats and does not reflect well with a one-time trial.
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8. Is this a family friendly gym?Yes, Atlantic is welcoming to all ages and skill levels. We offer kids' programs focused on discipline and the fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu, while our adult classes help athletes reach their full potential. We pride ourselves on a strong, respectful community where families can train and grow together. However, although we will cater to all who are committed to growth, we do so with the understanding that effectiveness and standards will never be sacrificed. This is a place for those who are serious about improving and reaching their fullest potential. Understand this: we will not lower our standards to meet the room, but rather, we will elevate the room to our standards. Our commitment is to uphold excellence, and we will push every athlete to rise to the level of our expectations. This is a team sport, and in a team, everyone must pull their weight. Each athlete’s dedication and effort contribute to the success of the entire group. When we all commit to our own progress, we ensure that our peers can also reach their goals. Together, we rise.
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9. This is a competition focused team, do I have to compete?No, unlike other clubs, we firmly believe that competing is not for everyone. Competitions come with risks—injuries, time away from work, and added physical and mental stress. Often, these challenges offer little return compared to the progress that can be made in a strong, effective training environment. Our culture is different. Not everyone will compete under the Atlantic banner. Competition is a partnership between Coach and Athlete, where both must be aligned on readiness, preparation, and goals. We prioritise the well-being and long-term growth of our athletes above all. All Athletes will need to be approved by the Captain to compete under the Atlantic banner.
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10. Do I need to compete to be graded/promoted?No. At Atlantic, we believe that grading should be based on true understanding—not just performance under competition conditions. Our system focuses on both conceptual understanding and the ability to apply those concepts at each level. We place particular emphasis on understanding for initial belt promotions. Grading is not tied to competition results. Instead, we focus on maintaining a high standard through consistent training.
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11. Will I be graded if I only do No-Gi?Short answer, Yes, however: All Athletes below a purple belt level MUST train in the Gi at least once a week & all Athletes will only be graded whilst wearing the Gi. Firstly, there are many ways that the Gi will improve your No-Gi game - especially at the fundamental level. Secondly, we believe no one should be exempt from the traditions that make Jiu-Jitsu what it is—an art founded on tradition, respect, humility, and community. If an athlete believes they are above these core principles, we may consider an exemption from this rule. However, we would argue that anyone who holds this belief is not truly among their peers. Our focus is on those who respect and embody the values that make this art meaningful, while simultaneously modernising every other aspect of the art to optimise its and Athletes' growth. The traditions we maintain, we hold central to our culture, and we expect all athletes to embrace them fully.
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12. What if I can't find an answer here?You can always communicate with us using our Contact Form (below) with any queries you may have.
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