Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling martial art and combat sport specifically designed to enable individuals of smaller stature to defend themselves against larger, stronger, and heavier opponents. By using techniques that leverage joint locks and chokes, BJJ allows practitioners to control and overcome their attackers through skill and strategy rather than brute strength. At Brazil-021 Houston, we focus on teaching these fundamental principles to our students, ensuring that even beginners can quickly grasp the essentials of this effective self-defense system. Our expert instructors provide personalized guidance and structured classes to support newcomers in mastering the basic techniques, building confidence, and achieving their fitness goals. Whether you're interested in self-defense, physical fitness, or competitive training, Brazil-021 Houston offers a welcoming and professional environment to start your BJJ journey.

The $25 trial session at Brazil-021 Houston includes the trial class and a rental uniform which is required for class. If you enroll after the trial, the $25 fee is credited back. This lets you experience our program risk-free before committing.

No, we do not require our students to compete. We recognize that our students come from diverse backgrounds and have different goals. Many of our students are established in their careers, have families, and train primarily to maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise, and have fun. On the other hand, we also have many students who choose to compete regularly. Regardless of your aspirations, Professor Marcos and our skilled instructors respect and support each student’s individual journey and goals. Whether you are here for fitness, fun, or competition, Brazil-021 Houston is dedicated to helping you achieve your personal best.

Class will start on time! Please make sure you give yourself time to get to the academy, sign the waiver and get ready for your first class! We recommend arriving about 15-20 minutes before the class start time. We do require the Gi (uniform) for class. We offer rentals at the academy for your trial week! We do not allow walking bare feet at ANY moment in the academy unless you are on the mats. This is to prevent any kind of transferring of bacteria and other germs on the mats. With that being said, we recommend for you to wear shoes you can take on and off easily to access the mats freely. Any kind of athletic clothes are great for under the Gi. Feel free to bring a water bottle! We also have a water fountain and other drinks for purchase. Class will start with a stretch and warm up, followed by drilling and depending on the day sparing/live training. You will be paired with a higher belt and be introduced to very basic techniques. An instructor or an assistant will be with you at all times. Starting something new is always the hardest part, give yourself time and remember that anyone who is an expert in something now was a beginner at one point!

No, Jiu-Jitsu has no age restrictions! It all goes back to finding the academy that meets your expectations and feeling comfortable in the environment. It is also important to find a Professor that you trust and understands your personal goals!

At Brazil-021 Houston safety is always our number one priority. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the only martial arts that you can train a 100% one round, bow shake hands with you training partner, get up and be able to train again. Understanding what positions you are safe in and what positions you are putting yourself in jeopardy are key to protecting yourself in training. Our programs are focused on building a strong foundation to make sure you are prepared properly to recognize those positions.

The simple answer, of course! Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was designed to work in favor for the smaller and weaker individual to be able to effectively protect themselves against a larger and stronger opponent. When you think about the unfortunate, but all too real scenarios that a woman could face in a real life self-defense situation, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is very realistic as it covers multiple techniques, from not only being on the ground, but standing as well.

The belt ranking system in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is designed to signify a practitioner's level of skill, experience, and dedication to the art. The progression follows traditional BJJ belts which are white, blue, purple, brown, and black. Each belt represents a significant milestone and requires mastery of specific techniques, physical conditioning, and a strong understanding. White Belt: This is the beginner's belt where students start learning basics and foundational techniques. Blue Belt: This is where students start to refine their skills, develop strategies, and understand more complex techniques. Purple Belt: At this level, students begin to hone their skills, demonstrating a deeper understanding of BJJ and the ability to apply techniques fluidly. Brown Belt: This is a preparatory level for the black belt, where students polish their techniques and enhance their overall game. Black Belt: The black belt represents an expert level of proficiency in BJJ, signifying years of dedication and a comprehensive understanding of the art. At Brazil-021 Houston, our experienced instructors guide students through each belt level, providing personalized feedback and support to ensure cohesive progression. Whether you're a beginner starting at white belt or an advanced practitioner aspiring for a black belt, our program is structured to help you achieve your goals in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

On average it takes about 10 years to receive a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Obviously time varies depending on each practitioner and the time he/she spends dedicated to the martial art and time on the mats. See the attached illustration!

No! Many people start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to lose weight, exercise more, learn how to defend themselves and to live a healthier lifestyle. Training Jiu-Jitsu is a way you can accomplish all of these goals while having fun and learning something that truly benefits your life. Everything can be done in moderation, start slow and allow your body get used to activating different muscle groups!

Watch our belt tying tutorial here! Professor Marcos will show you how to tie your BJJ belt three different ways!