FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General
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      Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that focuses on leverage, technique, and strategy rather than size or strength. The art of jiu jitsu teaches how to control and neutralize an opponent safely, making it an incredibly effective and non-violent form of self defense. For adults, Jiu Jitsu offers an unmatched way to build confidence, fitness, and stress relief while learning a practical skill. For kids, it builds discipline, respect, and problem solving skills that will help them develop both physical coordination and emotional control on and off the mats. At Moxie, we focus on using Jiu Jitsu as a tool for personal growth and character development. 
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      Not at all! Most people who start at Moxie have no prior martial arts experience and that’s perfectly okay. Our beginner friendly classes and curriculum focus on teaching the fundamentals in a safe, encouraging, and supportive environment. We’ll guide you step-by-step through basic movements, techniques, and concepts so you can build an understanding of the art at your own pace. Everyone starts as a beginner but with consistency, progress will follow. 
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      Brazilian Jiu Jitsu focuses on grappling and ground control rather than striking. While many martial arts rely on punches, kicks, or fast movements, BJJ emphasizes leverage, technique, and strategy to control or neutralize an opponent without causing harm. Jiu Jitsu also differs in how it is practiced. Instead of memorizing forms or routines, students learn through drilling techniques and live training called “rolling”, which allows them to apply techniques in a realistic but safe way. Jiu Jitsu is the ultimate chess game in which both players are constantly thinking, adapting, and solving ever-changing problems in real time through movement and strategy. 
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      Yes! When practiced in a controlled, respectful environment like ours, Jiu Jitsu is very safe. We emphasize technique over strength and teach how to train intelligently. As a team, we are always looking out for our training partners. Injuries are rare and mutual respect is a core part of our culture both on and off the mats. 
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      Your first class at Moxie will be fun! We’ll give you a quick tour and help you get comfortable on the mats. Class begins with a light warm up, followed by learning fundamental movements and techniques with the guidance of your coach. You won’t be thrown into live sparring rounds right away. Our goal is to help you learn the fundamentals safely. Expect a supportive atmosphere with members working together to achieve goals. 
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      For your first class, just wear comfortable athletic clothing - like a t-shirt and shorts or leggings without zippers or pockets. Youdo not need a uniform to begin training. If you decide to continue, we’ll help you get the right gear and explain what’s needed for future classes. 
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      In a “Gi” class, students wear a traditional uniform (the gi), which allows you to grip your partner’s sleeves, collar, and pants to control movement and apply techniques. Gi training teaches patience, precision, and strong fundamentals. In no-gi training, students wear athletic clothing like rash guards and shorts instead of a gi. Without grips on clothing, the pace is often faster and relies more on body control, positioning, and timing. Both styles build valuable skills and complement each other. At Moxie, we encourage students to train in both to develop a well-rounded game and deepen their understanding of the art. 
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      As a beginner, aim to train 2-3 times per week. This will help you build consistency, let your body adapt, and retain what you are learning without getting burned out. As your body and schedule adjust, you can gradually add more training sessions. 
Kid’s Program
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      Our kids program begins at age 7. However, we understand that every child develops at their own pace - physically, mentally, and emotionally. For children under 7, we evaluate on a case-by-case basis to ensure they’re ready to focus, follow directions, and have fun in a structured class environment. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to schedule a free trial class so we can meet your child and see if it’s a good fit! 
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      Our kids program teaches the same core techniques that we use in the teen and adult classes - we just present them in a way that’s age-appropriate and engaging. Each lesson is broken down into smaller, easy-to-understand steps, with time for repetition and positive reinforcement. We also incorporate fun games and drills that build coordination, balance, and movement all while helping kids learn focus, respect, and confidence on the mat. 
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      Yes and not just physically! At Moxie, we teach kids that true self-defense starts with confidence, awareness, and self-control. Through training, your child will learn how to stay calm under pressure, use their voice, and set boundaries before a situation ever becomes physical. If it does, Jiu Jitsu gives them the tools to safely control and neutralize an aggressor without striking or causing harm. Our goal is to help every student become bully-proof in mind, body, and spirit. 
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      Absolutely! Safety is our top priority. All of our classes are supervised closely and taught in a structured, positive environment. We emphasize control, respect, and technique over strength or aggression, and students are taught how to train safely with their partners. Our mats are padded, and we teach kids how to fall, move, and protect themselves properly. With the right guidance and atmosphere, Jiu Jitsu is one of the safest and most effective martial arts for kids to learn. 
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      For their first class, your child just needs to wear comfortable athletic clothing - like a t-shirt and gym shorts or pants (no zippers or buttons please). It’s also a good idea to bring a water bottle. We do have cups and a refillable water station available. If your child decides to continue after their trial, we’ll help you get fitted for their own uniform and explain what they will need going forward. 
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      Yes, absolutely! We welcome parents to watch and see what their child is learning. We believe it’s important for parents to feel connected to their child’s progress and to experience the positive atmosphere we work hard to create. We just ask that parents refrain from coaching or giving instructions from the sidelines so students can stay focused on their instructors. Many parents enjoy watching class each week! 
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      Yes! We offer a free 2-class trial so your child can experience Jiu Jitsu firsthand and see if it’s a good fit before signing up. In addition, we host a free 1 hour Intro to Jiu Jitsu class every other Friday evening from 6-7 pm. This session is open to beginners and gives kids (and parents) a chance to learn the basics, meet our instructors, and get comfortable on the mats. It’s a great way to start their Jiu Jitsu journey in a fun, low-pressure environment.