Getting Started
Do I need to be fit before I start?
No. BJJ will build your fitness — you don’t need to bring it. Most of our students started with zero athletic background. The first few weeks are about learning to move, not about being in shape.
I’ve never done a martial art. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Most people on the mat started exactly where you are. Our Fundamentals program is built for complete beginners — no experience assumed.
What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable athletic wear — shorts and a t-shirt are fine for your first session. No zippers, pockets, or hard buttons. We’ll sort you out with the right gear once you decide to join.
How early should I arrive?
Aim for 10–15 minutes before class. That gives us time to show you around, answer your questions, and get you set before the warm-up.
Can I bring a friend?
Yes. They can train with you or watch. Either way, message us before you come so we can expect you both.
What to Expect
What does a typical class look like?
Warm-up → technique demonstration → partner drilling → live rolling → cool-down. Every class follows the same structure so you always know where you are.
What is “rolling”?
Rolling is controlled sparring — you apply what you’ve learned against a training partner who’s also trying to apply theirs. It’s not a fight. It’s problem-solving under pressure. Beginners roll with experienced students who know how to keep it safe, and two beginners are never put together.
Will there be other beginners?
Yes. We have new students joining regularly. You won’t be the only one figuring things out.
Is BJJ safe?
BJJ has a lower injury rate than most contact sports because control and technique matter more than strength. Tapping — signalling your partner to stop — is how you train without getting hurt. Everyone taps. It’s not a sign of weakness, it’s how the sport works.
Programs
Is BJJ suitable for women?
Yes. We have a dedicated Women’s Class coached by Hiba Elwany — a private room, no men in it when she runs it. It’s not a modified version of BJJ. It’s BJJ, in a space built for women.
What age can kids start?
Kids classes are for ages 8 to 14. The curriculum focuses on movement, coordination, respect, and confidence — real BJJ adapted for young athletes, with four coaches on the mat.
What’s the difference between Gi and No-Gi?
Gi uses the traditional uniform — the kimono and pants give you more grips to work with. No-Gi uses shorts and a rash guard — faster-paced, fewer grips, closer to wrestling. Both are worth learning. Most students start with Gi.
Do I need my own gi?
Not for the trial — we’ll rent you one at the door for 5,000 IQD. Once you join, you’ll need your own black or white gi. All students start with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi.
Do you teach in Arabic?
English is the main language on the mats, and a coach translates to Arabic or Kurdish whenever someone needs it. You don’t need English to train here.
Progression
How does belt grading work?
We follow the Renzo Gracie Academy grading system, and every promotion is approved by Renzo Gracie HQ in New York. Promotions are based on mat time, technical understanding, and how you carry yourself as a training partner — not just competition results. There’s no fixed timeline. To move from Fundamentals into Intermediate and No-Gi, you earn two stripes on your white belt first.
How long until I get my first belt?
Blue belt typically takes 1–3 years of consistent training. The range is wide because it depends entirely on how often you show up and how seriously you train — not on a clock.
My belt is from another academy — is it recognised?
Belts from legitimate BJJ academies under certified black belts are respected. Come in, train with us, and we’ll go from there.
How much does it cost?
After your three free trial classes, training is $100 a month.