Q: What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and why should I learn it?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a ground-based martial art that focuses on controlling an opponent and applying submissions, joint locks and chokes, to end a confrontation without relying on punches or kicks. What makes it unique, and especially valuable for women, is that it was built around one core idea: a smaller, weaker person can defend themselves against a bigger, stronger attacker using leverage, timing, and technique. Size and strength matter far less here than in almost any other martial art.

Beyond self-defense, BJJ offers benefits that are hard to find anywhere else. It’s a full-body workout that builds strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance. It sharpens your mind, every round on the mat is a live problem to solve. And it builds a kind of quiet confidence that carries into every area of your life. Women who train consistently tell us they feel safer, stronger, and more capable, and not just on the mat, but everywhere.

Q: Is this class really women only?

Yes, Women’s Only Jiu-Jitsu is led by Coach Jacklyn and the mat is exclusively female. From time to time, Coach Jacklyn may invite one of our male coaches to serve as an uke, a demonstration partner used to show techniques to the class. Outside of that, all training partners are women. The class is designed to be a comfortable, empowering, and judgment-free environment where you can learn jiu-jitsu at your own pace.

Q: Do I need prior experience?

No experience required. Whether you’ve never stepped on a mat or have some martial arts background, this class meets you where you are. Coach Jacklyn tailors instruction to the group in the room.

Q: What will I learn?

You’ll learn practical Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with a strong focus on self-defense, how to use leverage and positioning to protect yourself regardless of size or strength differences. Classes also build fitness, body awareness, and genuine confidence that extends well beyond the mat.

Q: What can I expect during a training session?

Every class follows a similar structure so you always know what to expect. We start with a group warm-up — movement drills, stretching, and bodyweight exercises that get you ready for the mat. From there, Coach Jacklyn introduces the technique of the day, walking through each step with a clear demonstration (this is where an uke may occasionally assist). You’ll then practice that technique with a partner through structured drilling, getting plenty of reps in a safe and supportive setting.

Depending on the class, we may finish with positional drilling or light situational rounds, these are guided, low-pressure exercises, not full sparring. There’s no expectation to “roll” (spar) until you feel ready, and Coach Jacklyn will always check in with you. Classes close with a cool-down and time for questions. The atmosphere is collaborative, not competitive, everyone is here to learn and support each other.

Q: What do I wear?

For your first class, come in athletic wear and we’ll take care of the rest. We have loaner gis available. When you’re ready for your own, we recommend wearing leggings or biker shorts under the gi pants, and a light shirt or rash guard under the gi top for added comfort. On the last Friday of every month, we hold a Women’s Only No-Gi class, for that one, just wear spats or shorts and a t-shirt or rash guard. No gi needed.

Q: Why train in a women-only setting?

For many women, the idea of grappling in a mixed class feels intimidating at first — and that’s completely understandable. A women-only class removes that pressure and creates a space where you can ask questions freely, make mistakes without self-consciousness, and build confidence at your own pace. Many of our women eventually join coed classes too; others stay in this space entirely. Both are great.

Q: When is the class?

Women’s Only Jiu-Jitsu meets every Friday from 5:15–6:15 PM. Check our website Schedule frequently for updates. 
The last Friday of every month is a special No-Gi class, no uniform needed, just athletic wear. 

Q: Can women also train in the regular adult classes?

Yes, and we highly encourage it! Our Women’s Only class is a wonderful starting point, and we’d love to see you on the mat for our other programs too — GB1, GB2, No-Gi, Muay Thai, and more. Those classes require a membership, but the great news is: Women’s Only Jiu-Jitsu is completely free to attend. It’s our way of welcoming women into the GB Edmonds community with no barrier to entry. Come try it, fall in love with jiu-jitsu, and go from there.