HOW WE TEACH BJJ TO ADULTS AT GIL JITSU ACADEMY
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu group classes for adults are designed to develop functional skills, confidence, and deep understanding of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) through a method that emphasizes movement, realism, and repetition.
Warm-Up with Purpose
Each class begins with a dynamic warm-up that mimics common movements found in BJJ — bridging, shrimping, rolling, and other mobility drills. This segment lasts about 10–15 minutes and helps students feel more connected to their bodies while developing the essential movement patterns required for live sparring. The goal is not just to prepare the muscles, but to establish the foundation for fluid, instinctive motion during combat.
Scenario-Based Technical Training
After the warm-up, we focus on a realistic scenario — a position or exchange that students are highly likely to encounter in a live roll or self-defense situation. We define the roles and objectives of both players (top and bottom), and clearly explain the goal for each person in that situation.
Students are then shown a specific, high-percentage technique to reach those goals. We drill it repetitively to build muscle memory and motor skill — precision comes from quality repetition. This phase is hands-on, high-engagement, and accessible to all levels.
Feedback and Refinement
Next, we bring the group together and review the technique again, with focused attention on key details and common mistakes observed during drilling. This moment allows for clarity, correction, and refinement — making sure everyone can adjust and improve in real time.
Learning Through Games
Often, we introduce specific BJJ games designed around a shared scenario where both players have clear win conditions. For example: the bottom player must stand up, while the top player must control the torso to keep them down. These games encourage creative problem solving, timing, and adaptation, and are played with rotating roles and partners. This playful yet competitive format enhances learning through experience and pressure — often lasting 10 to 20 minutes.
Sparring as Essential Practice
Each class concludes with at least 20 minutes of live sparring. Rolling is a fundamental part of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — it’s where theory becomes reality. Students experience real resistance, test their skills, and learn to adapt under pressure. Whether you're a beginner or advanced, sparring helps develop timing, control, and mental resilience.
The Beginner’s Journey
For beginners, our focus is clear and complete:
- Build motor skills for body movement and control
- Understand basic offensive and defensive priorities in BJJ
- Practice simple techniques against live, resisting opponents
- Physically adapt to the demands of grappling
We don’t isolate these elements — we integrate them daily. In our view, you can't skip any part of the learning process. That’s why every session at Gil Jitsu Academy is carefully built to engage every aspect of development: movement, concept, skill, resistance, and mindset.
Gi and No-Gi Training
At Gil Jitsu Academy, we offer both Gi and No-Gi classes to give our students a complete Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. While both styles share the same fundamental principles, they each offer unique challenges and benefits:
- Gi training focuses on grip control, positional dominance, and traditional jiu-jitsu techniques using the kimono. It teaches patience, precision, and strategy.
- No-Gi training emphasizes speed, athleticism, and tight body control. It is practiced in rash guards and shorts, and is closer in style to MMA grappling and self-defense scenarios.
We encourage students to train in both styles to develop well-rounded grappling skills and a deeper understanding of body mechanics, timing, and adaptation. Whether you prefer the strategic grip battles of Gi or the dynamic scrambles of No-Gi, both paths will challenge and grow your abilities on the mat.
Come Train With Us
Whether you're stepping on the mat for the first time or returning with experience, our adult classes are crafted to meet you where you are — and help you grow.
Train smart. Move with purpose. Get stronger every day.
