ANSWER: It depends on what you are looking for. If you want the most effective martial art / personal protection system in the world, then Gracie Jiu-jitsu can be for you. Importantly, action speaks louder than words - Royce Gracie proved that in the UFC™. Moreover, US Military and Law Enforcement Agencies throughout North America, including Canada's National Police Force, have adopted and implemented Gracie Jiu-jitsu / BJJ into their training programs - perhaps you should try it.
ANSWER: Gracie Jiu-jitsu focuses on a complete system, including stand up techniques, take-downs, ground grappling, personal protection and the overall character development of the participant. Everyone can do it regardless of their athletic ability - there is no need to do the splits, jump high, kick over someone's head or break a board. Gracie Jiu-jitsu utilizes the most effective techniques, that actually work, against attacks that actually happen. More than 75% (3 out of every 4) of physical confrontations go to the ground - we suggest knowing what to do if you end up on the ground.
ANSWER: Congratulations on being a member of the larger martial arts community. If you enjoy where you currently train and your goals and needs are being met, you are in the right school - stay where you are at. However, if you are looking for something more, or recognize what you are doing "likely would not work," then come and try a complementary class at our Royce Gracie Academy or some other legitimate jiu-jitsu / submission wrestling dojo. If you are currently training BJJ / Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, then you have found the right place.
ANSWER: The instructor. Think for a moment, who was your favourite teacher growing up? Why? For most of us, our favourite teacher influenced our lives for the greater good - they were kind when they needed to be, assertive when we required it, and helped us develop into who we are today. Great teachers make us better - more so than the subject (e.g., martial art). Your instructor will have a dramatic impact on yours' or your child's life, we suggest selecting the FINEST one you can find.
ANSWER: Absolutely! If you have a martial arts club close to you, go try a complementary class. We would suggest starting with a legitimate Gracie Jiu-jitsu / BJJ club (there are many out there besides us). Trust your instincts; if you do not find what you are looking for, we know that our Royce Gracie Academy will be worth your time. If you are unable to train in Gracie Jiu-jitsu / BJJ, we suggest a wrestling or judo club. If you cannot find one, then go to https://www.gracieuniversity.com/ and learn on-line. If you are still stuck, refer back to question #4 - go find the finest Sensei you can - the Instructor is the difference!
ANSWER: It is never too late to start (although we all wish we started earlier). Grand Master Helio Gracie was on the mat well into his 90's. Every day, males and females who are 40, 50 and 60 years of age, are practicing jiu-jitsu and personal protection. Royce Gracie Academy's and our certified instructors pride ourselves on being able to meet the needs of all our students by adapting / tailoring our classes to help you achieve your goals.