What should I wear to my first class?

All you need is an old t-shirt and some shorts or athletic pants. If you have a compression top, even better, but not necessary. Any regular gym attire will do. Be sure that your shorts don’t have any belt loops or pockets.

We also recommend that you bring water or sports drink and a change of clothes if you don’t want to drive home sweaty. That’s about it!

What does a typical class look like?

Classes last approximately 1 to 1.5 hours and are usually structured with a warmup, technique review, and then live sparring (we call them rolls). We like to switch things up though, so some classes might include more positional sparring than rolls, less warmups, or more technique.

Do you have a beginners class?

Yes. Monday night is a fundamentals class with a focus on basic movements, as well as defensive and offensive techniques. Advanced students are welcome to attend this class as well and are encourage to help our newer members. New members will not be asked to roll until they are comfortable doing so and / or are cleared by a lead instructor.

Are white belts allowed to roll?

If you are brand new to jiu-jitsu or grappling, then your first several sessions will be focused on movement-based drills and learning proper defensive mechanics. Once you exhibit an ability to keep yourself (and your training partners) safe, then you will be able roll.

Please note that white belts are welcome to all classes and open mats. The more time you get on the mats, the faster you’ll understand the fundamental concepts and be able to implement them safely.

Do you offer classes for kids or teens?

Not yet, however, this is something we would like to add in the future. Drop us a line to express your interest and we’ll keep you posted.

I train at a different jiu-jitsu academy in the Pittsburgh area. Am I welcome to come train with you guys?

Yes. We believe cross-training is a great way to test your skills and get to know other local people in the community. Be sure to schedule your visit by clicking here so we can get you the necessary release forms and information.

There is a $20 drop-in fee. Please note that drop-ins can only be scheduled during normal class times as open mats are reserved for current members of the club and invites only.

If you plan on doing consistent cross-training with us, please let us know.

If I am from a different academy, can I wear my team’s Gi and / or Rashguard in your gym?

Yep. We’re all just training to get better together. The academy logo on your apparel has no bearing on your ability to train with us.

As a Sessions Jiu Jitsu team member, can I go train at other local gyms?

Absolutely. We believe everyone should be able to train where they want, when they want. Every gym has its own way of doing things - from the culture to the techniques taught to the intensity of rolls. The more experiences you have on the mats, the better your jiu-jitsu will ultimately become.

I’m from out of town. Do you allow drop-ins?

Yes. We have a $20 drop-in fee. Be sure to schedule your visit by clicking here so we can get you the necessary release forms and information. If you plan on training with us for more than a week but less than a month, let us know. We look forward to meeting you!

Please note that drop-ins can only be scheduled during normal class times as open mats are reserved for current members of the club and invites only.

Can I throw punches, slam my opponents on the ground, and act like a total jerk?

Nope. If that’s your M.O., don’t bother showing up. We all like tough rounds but there’s no reason to risk injuring your training partners. We’re here to learn and get better. Check your ego at the door and save that aggression for the tournaments. 

Am I too old or out of shape to try jiu-jitsu?

Short answer is no. We have members of all shapes, sizes, age, and athletic ability. The best way to get in shape for jiu-jitsu is to do jiu-jitsu.

That said, please keep in mind that jiu-jitsu is a cardio intense activity, so if you have pre-existing health conditions (cardiovascular, diabetes, etc) or are concerned with the demands of grappling, please seek your doctor’s advice prior to trying a class. 

Can I get injured doing jiu-jitsu?

Like any contact sport, there is a risk for injury. That said, statistically, jiu-jitsu is very safe especially compared to other sports and martial arts. 

What makes jiu-jitsu inherently safer is what we call the “tap”. If you’re in a position or a submission that is uncomfortable… just tap on your partner and they will let go. That means your training partner did a good job and/or you made a mistake. Either way - you both learned something and can adjust your techniques for the next time.

There’s an old saying in jiu-jitsu ”tap today so you can train tomorrow.”

What is your cancellation policy?

Our memberships are currently month-to-month and you can cancel at anytime. When you purchase your membership through this website, you will be asked to create a password that will allow you to login into your membership portal to manage your membership status, billing information, and orders.

To avoid being charged for a month where you do not intend to train, you must cancel your membership prior to your billing anniversary date.