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Frequently asked questions

Martial arts class with students practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, instructor demonstrating technique, American flags hanging on the wall.

What is training like?

Training at BTT Charlotte is structured, technical, and team-oriented. Professor Guto leads every class with a focus on strong fundamentals, detailed instruction, and long-term development.

Classes move from warmups and technical instruction into partner drilling and live rounds. Pace and intensity are adjusted for experience, safety, and the goals of the students in the room.

No egos. No shortcuts. Just real Jiu Jitsu.

WHAT IS BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art focused on technique, leverage, positioning, and control rather than relying on strength alone.

Students learn how to move efficiently, defend themselves, solve problems under pressure, and stay calm in difficult situations while developing both physical and mental discipline. Unlike many traditional fitness programs, Jiu Jitsu offers continuous progression. There is always something new to learn, refine, and improve, whether you train recreationally or competitively.

At BTT Charlotte, students of all backgrounds train together in a safe, respectful, and supportive environment.

POSITIONS

Students learn takedowns, guard, sweeps, passing, positional escapes, mount, and back control.

UNDERSTANDING THE SPORT

SUBMISSIONS

Joint locks and chokes can end a round. A student taps to signal the submission, and their partner releases immediately.

COMPETITION

Matches can be won by submission or points. Competition is available and supported, but never required.

BELTS

Adult ranks progress from white to blue, purple, brown, and black. Every student advances at an individual pace.

CONDUCT

Train with control. Protect your partners. Tap responsibly. Keep yourself and your training gear clean. Leave hostile ego outside the academy.

  • Not at all. Many of our students begin with no prior martial arts or fitness experience. Classes are structured to help new students learn progressively in a supportive environment, and our coaches and teammates are always happy to help guide beginners through the process.

  • Comfortable athletic clothing is perfect for your first class. Wear a t-shirt, compression shirt, or rash guard with athletic shorts or leggings. We also recommend bringing water and sandals or flip flops to wear off the mats.

    Remove all jewelry before class.

    You do not need a Gi for your first class. If you decide to continue training, our team can help guide you on uniforms and training gear.

  • Gi classes are trained in the traditional BJJ Gi (kimono) jacket and pants and place a strong emphasis on grips, control, and technical positioning. No-Gi classes are trained in a rash guard or athletic wear and move at a faster pace with no clothing grips.

    Both styles are valuable for developing a well-rounded Jiu Jitsu game and practical self-defense skills. While many people assume No-Gi is more “realistic” for self-defense, the reality is that people in everyday situations are almost always wearing clothing. Gi training teaches students how to use, control, break, and escape grips involving jackets, hoodies, sleeves, collars, pants, and other clothing-based holds that commonly occur in real-world situations.

    Training both Gi and No-Gi creates the most complete understanding of movement, control, and self-defense application.

  • BJJ memberships include unlimited Gi and No-Gi training each month, with options that vary based on commitment length and training goals. Muay Thai training is available as either a standalone membership or an add-on to BJJ training.

    All membership pricing, contracts, and options are reviewed in person during your first visit and trial class so we can help you find the best fit for your schedule and training goals.

  • That’s completely okay. Many students begin training specifically to improve their fitness, confidence, and overall health. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu naturally helps develop endurance, cardio, mobility, coordination, and strength over time through consistent training.

    You do not need to “get in shape first” before starting. Our classes are designed to help students build progressively at their own pace.

  • Not at all. Competition is completely optional, and many students train purely for fitness, self-defense, stress relief, or personal growth.

    As a team, we attend multiple competitions throughout the year for students who are interested in competing. Coaching, support, and team guidance are provided at events for those who choose to participate.

  • As part of Brazilian Top Team, we take pride in representing our academy and the larger global BTT organization. Like any sports team, wearing team gear helps create a strong sense of identity, professionalism, and unity on the mats.

    Team uniforms and branded gear are preferred for regular students, but they are not mandatory, and beginners are never required to purchase gear immediately when starting training.

  • Yes. Single-class drop-in passes are available for $30 for visiting students and short-term training.

    Private training sessions are also available for students looking for individualized coaching, technical development, or additional instruction outside of regular classes.

  • The best way to start is by booking a free class. You’ll meet the coaches, experience the environment, and get introduced to training with the team before deciding on a membership.

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