WILDFIRE BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU

816-844-7833

What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
     The short version:  Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling and self-defense martial art.  The main focus is controlling any altercation without relying on size or strength and, if needed, finishing the altercation with a choke, joint lock, or pin.  Utilizing leverage and physics, jiu-jitsu aims to achieve maximum efficiency with minimum effort. 

What is the difference between Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
     Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a brand name affiliated directly with Helio Gracie, who is almost universally regarded as the father of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.   Any school advertising Gracie Jiu-Jitsu absolutely should be able to track the lineage of their instructors and ranking belts all the way back to Helio Gracie himself.  While there are some minor differences in curriculum, training methods, and philosophy, the main difference is the same as the difference between Kleenex and Tissues.
     We are a part of Team Rhino Gracie Jiu-Jitsu under Professor Keith Owen.  We still choose to advertise as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu out of respect for the brand, but our curriculum and lineage are Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. 

Is the training dangerous?
     While we focus on responsible training and safety, as with any sport there is always the risk for injury.  Again, the main focus is to control any altercation.  If at any point you feel as though you are at risk of injury during training you can tap out and stop the activity immediately, even if your partner is not applying a submission.

Is this a good martial art for self-defense?
     Yes.  The news is filled with more and more stories of BJJ practitioners defending themselves and others using what they have learned in class.  Also, unlike most other martial arts, you will be applying these techniques in a controlled fight simulation in almost every single class.  We also have Self Defense Seminars available.

I’m not in great shape, will I still be able to practice BJJ?
     Yes.  We utilize movements that are unique to BJJ so even the most physically fit person will feel a little sore their first few times on the mat, don’t be discouraged.  Each body type has advantages and disadvantages in any sport, we will help you find what works for you in BJJ.  

Is this a good way to get in shape?
     Yes, the movements required will build strength and flexibility as well as test your cardio. However, this is not a bootcamp style program, our main focus is proper jiu-jitsu technique.  Our job is not to push you, it is to help you push yourself.
     We also offer a Fighting Fit program outside of regular jiu-jitsu classes that will use functional jiu-jitsu and martial arts movements to give you an excellent work out.

How much does it cost?  Do I have to sign a contract?
     No, you do not have to sign a contract, however, the cost of a monthly membership is discounted to $99 if you choose our auto-billing option.  If you do not want to be billed automatically, the rate is $125 a month.  We do offer drop in rates and 6 week group sessions as well as discounts for Police, Military, Fire, and EMS.  We do not have initiation or cancellation fees.  The only other fee is your Annual Team Rhino Assocition Due of $37.

Can I train in another martial art or at another BJJ school and still train at Wildfire BJJ?
     Of course!  However, if you wish to advance in rank, we require that you join the Team Rhino Association and pay your association dues ($37 a year).  Also, while training at Wildfire BJJ you should have the proper patches on your gi or no patches at all.  We also offer “Drop in” rates for part time training.

What should I wear to train?
     Please see our attire and hygiene guidelines HERE

What can I expect in a typical class?
     The first 15-20 minutes of class will be stretching and functional warm up drills.  The next 30-60 minutes will be detailed technique instruction and drilling.  Any remaining time is open mat where you can apply what you’ve learned in Randori (open sparring or rolling), drill techniques, or address any questions you may have about techniques.

What can I do to get ready for my first class?

     There are hundreds, if not thousands of videos on the internet with warmups, drills, and other exercises for jiu-jitsu.  The absolute best thing to do is to come to class and learn what it is you need to work.  The typical advice would be to stretch your lower back, hips, and groin and start slowly and build your way up physically. 

Do I HAVE to spar?
     To get the full benefit of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, yes, you should spar and feel the techniques and balance in a live scenario.  However, we will work with you to ramp up your training as you progress.  You are not expected to spar at a high level or intensity until you are more advanced, in fact we believe it is detrimental to your training to do so.

Do I have to compete in tournaments?
No, it is not required that you compete.

Is there a set curriculum?
      Yes, we have an excellent curriculum as part of the Team Rhino – Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Association developed by Professor Keith Owen.  The curriculum will help you develop an excellent foundation for your jiu-jitsu journey. 

How long until I get a belt promotion?
     This is a common question, and one that is nearly impossible to answer.   The more you train and harder you work, the sooner you will earn your next belt.  To go from White to Blue Belt typically takes 6-24 months, again, it depends on many different factors.

What is the gym etiquette?
It is far less formal that most martial arts, please refer to our etiquette guidelines HERE.

Do you offer MMA Training?
At this time we do not offer any MMA classes, however, we can work with anyone towards their goals with private lessons, or renting gym time. 

People don’t wear those robe lookin’ things on the street, this won’t work.
     Well, first of all that isn’t really a question.  Second, it is called a Gi or a Kimono.  Third, gi’s are worn during training because they can hold up to the constant abuse of training as well as being hygienic.  Any technique that is taught using a grip on the gi can be applied to any garment, but will absolutely damage it in the process.  So, unless you want to spend a lot of money on T-shirts, a gi is the proper training attire.

I don't like to read, are there videos answering my questions?

We are in the process of filming as many videos as we can, you can visit our youtube HERE and see how far we have gotten.  Clicking that link will open a new window.