FAQ'S
COMMON QUESTIONS
Answers to what new members ask us most.
Frequently asked questions
Adult classes
New to SJA? Here's what most people want to know before their first session.
I've never trained before. Can I still join?
Absolutely. Most people start with little or no experience. You don't need to know how to grapple, wrestle or strike before you walk in. Our coaches will help you learn the basics and build from there.
Which class should I start with?
It depends on what you're interested in — Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling or MMA. You can check out the different programs and live timetable, or send us a message and we'll help you choose the best place to start.
Do I need to get fit before I start?
No. You don't need to get fit before you start training — training helps you get fitter. Start where you're at and build your fitness, confidence and skills over time.
What should I wear & bring?
Comfortable training clothes such as a t-shirt or rashguard and shorts are perfect. Bring a water bottle and avoid clothing with zips, buckles or anything that could catch during training. Our Jiu-Jitsu classes are NoGi, so you don't need to buy a Gi.
Do I have to spar?
No — but you can if you want to. You won't be pressured into sparring before you're comfortable, but if you're keen to get involved, our coaches can help you start safely. We'll explain how live training works, appropriate intensity, tapping and looking after your training partners.
Is training safe?
Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling and MMA are physical sports, so no training is completely risk-free. We take safety seriously. Techniques are taught progressively, coaches supervise the room, sparring is controlled, and members are expected to look after their training partners.
Am I too old or too out of shape to start?
You don't need to be an athlete to train at SJA. People come in with different ages, fitness levels, backgrounds and goals. Start at your level, train consistently and improve from there.
What happens after my 7 days for $7?
Use the seven days to train, meet the coaches, try different sessions and get a feel for SJA. If you want to keep training afterwards, we'll help you find the membership or class option that suits you. No pressure.
For parents
Kids classes
What parents usually want to know before their child's first session.
Does my child need any experience?
Not at all. Most kids start with little or no experience. We teach everything step-by-step and give them time to learn, settle into the environment and build confidence as they go.
Which class is right for my child?
It depends on their age, experience and confidence level. We have different youth programs designed for different stages of development. If you're unsure where your child fits, send us a message and we'll help you find the best place to start.
What if my child is nervous or shy?
That's completely normal. Walking into a new environment can be a big step for a child. We won't expect them to know what to do straight away. Our coaches will help them settle in, understand how the class works and become more comfortable at their own pace.
What will my child learn?
They'll learn Jiu-Jitsu and grappling skills, but that's only part of what we're trying to build. Classes also develop confidence, coordination, resilience, listening, teamwork and the ability to stay calm and keep working when something feels difficult.
How do you keep kids safe during training?
Kids' classes are structured and actively coached. Techniques are introduced progressively, and we place a strong emphasis on control, respect and looking after training partners. Coaches supervise the room and adjust training to suit the children's age and experience.
What if my child has trouble focusing or joining in?
Every child is different. Some settle in immediately, while others need more time and guidance. Our coaches are patient, but we also set clear expectations and boundaries so kids can learn how to listen, participate and be part of the group.
What should my child wear & bring?
Comfortable training clothes such as a t-shirt or rashguard and shorts are perfect, along with a water bottle. Avoid clothing with zips, buckles or anything that could catch during training. Our Jiu-Jitsu classes are NoGi, so there's no need to purchase a Gi.
What if my child doesn't enjoy their first session?
That's okay. Some kids love it immediately, while others need a little more time to become comfortable in a new environment. Have a chat with one of our coaches afterwards and we'll help work out the best next step for them.
Still have a question?
Send us an enquiry and we'll talk you through memberships, class times and what to expect on your first night.