Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) also known as ‘the gentle art’ is a non-striking martial art which has its roots in the ground fighting ‘newaza’ elements of traditional Judo. BJJ or simply ‘jiu jitsu’ (as it was first known) in its earliest form was first practised in Asia but arrived in the Americas in the early 20th century where it quickly grew and was refined by the famous Gracie family to focus on groundwork, using the principal that a smaller or weaker individual is able to control a larger opponent using sweeps, holds, locks and submissions.

BJJ is practiced in the uniform or ‘gi’ and also ‘nogi’ without the uniform (usually in shorts and a rash guard) – both are as important as one another and we would recommend students learn both forms.

BJJ is suitable for anyone regardless of age, experience, gender or ability. It is now one of the worlds fastest growing sports and is practised round the world for self defence, competition, exercise and of course just for fun!

What do I need to train in?

Feel free to drop in for a session and we will do our best to supply you with a uniform (gi) for your first class. After that you will need to purchase a Gi with belt and a rashguard for nogi.

Do you offer 1-2-1 or private tuition?

Yes, 1-2-1 sessions (private sessions) are available with head coach Jon O’Marah. They are at our academy usually before or after class times and are £45 p/h, per person. Please contact us for times and availability.

Can I pay monthly?

You can pay upfront for however many classes you like but there are no monthly fees or contracts to train with us.

What is the address of the academy?

The Old Chapel, Housesteads Drive, Hoole, Chester CH2 3DL

Can I park at the Subworx?

Yes there is lots of parking within the grounds of the old chapel.

How old do I have to be?

Our gi and no gi classes have no fixed age range but as a general rule we welcome anybody around 15 years of age…. to infinity! In our kids class we usually recommend 5 years and above depending on height.

When will I get graded?

Traditionally there is no formal grading structure in BJJ. Your belt promotion/grading takes place when the professor deems that you have met that standard, that might seem unusual but it reflects the fact that we are all individuals and progress at different paces. Your promotion takes into account many aspects of your training including your commitment, understanding of technique, sparring ability and conduct – on and off the mats.

Why don’t you have beginners classes?

What happens in your Kids classes?

Subworx head coach Jon O’Marah believes that the current U.K self defence guidance, especially for children, is insufficient and outdated. He has written a comprehensive children’s syllabus with the teaching of practical BJJ at it’s core, however the techniques are also tailored for age appropriate self defence.

Most importantly this class is FUN and full of praise for all the children no matter what their level of ability. It is an energetic practical session covering simple BJJ techniques like break falls, escapes, grip and hold breaking and fun simple throws. Part of the syllabus is looking closely at common situations (ie. a headlock, or being grabbed from behind) that a child may encounter that requires them to use BJJ techniques to escape or neutralise unwanted physical contact without the need for striking.

As your child progresses they will be graded to match their ability, when a child reaches 16 their grading changes to the adult belt system. Children do not need to invest in a gi (uniform) and first belt immediately, a tracksuit is fine to start with for your first couple of sessions but in order to progress a gi is mandatory.