How does the grading system in BJJ work ?
There are 5 belt levels in BJJ. White, blue, purple, brown and black. Each belt can receive up to 4 stripes, showing the process within that belt. Receiving higher levels of stripes and belts are much more difficult in BJJ compared to most of the other martial arts, mainly because the process itself relies almost entirely on application and practice. The Brasa team is especially selective when it comes to grading its students. We believe in quality rather than quantity.
How long does it take to become a black belt in BJJ ?
Approximately,
Between white belt to blue belt takes about 1-2 years,
Between blue belt and purple belt takes about 2-3 years,
Between purple belt to brown belt takes about 2-3 years,
Between brown belt and black belt takes about 2-3 years.
Am I too old for BJJ ?
No, BJJ is a practice for all ages. It develops a unique level of both physical and mental fitness at the same time.
I'm not very strong person, can I do BJJ ?
The actual focus of BJJ is not to use brute strength against brute strength. BJJ focuses on using proper technique, balance, timing, and the leverage principle to defy a much stronger or larger opponent.
How long will it take for me to become effective in BJJ ?
This is the most common question we receive. Unfortunately there isn't any one single answer to this quesiton. This depends on a person's physical structure, his/her lifestyle and the time committed to BJJ practice on the mat. A person usually begins to understand the movement, base and leverage in about 12 months, and starts to develop his/her own unique BJJ style in a couple of years.
How dangerous and risky are the training sessions?
There is almost not danger at all. No tolerance is shown to any kind of uncontrolled or dangerous behavior in our sessions. Statistically, BJJ is much more safe than other physical activites such as football, voleyball, skiing, tenis, etc. Nonetheless, as in all physical activites, there is a risk factor but we try very hard to keep this at its possible minimum.
I'm working / I've worked in another discipline. Can I practice BJJ ?
Of course, you will adapt to BJJ much easier than people without any martial art background.
Is BJJ really the most effective martial art ?
There are three reasons for BJJ being the most effective martial art. First of all, BJJ was developed for close combat situations and encounters on the ground. Nearly all of actual fights end on the ground and this is the most difficult position for an opponent to defend himself. This marks the importance of proper BJJ training. Secondly, BJJ uses technical moves and the leverage principle to overcome an aggressive and stronger opponent. Finally, the BJJ training at Brasa requires for you to train with an active partner all the time. This provides you to try the techniques you have learned much more effectively and realistically, and greatly improves the actual chance of trying something you have learned in a real life situation.
What do I need to start ?
You need a BJJ Gi (Kimono) to begin training. We can direct you once you contact us.
I've had an operation, injury, etc before. Can I still practice BJJ ?
Only a medical expert can give a proper reply to this question. Our advice is to consult
an expert before starting any type of physical activity. If it's necessary, we can
contact your doctor and give information about the type of physical activity you are
planning to work on.
My cardio level is not very good, should I do some cardio exercises before starting BJJ ?
To have a better condition at Bjj, you have to practice Bjj.
My Turkish is terrible. Will this be any problem ?
Not at all, our BJJ instructors are very fluent English speakers. We have had lots of foreign team members, exchange students, foreign military personel, businessmen regularly attending our classes and they haven't experienced the slightest of language problems.
When can I start?
Today.