Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting and submission techniques. It teaches you to control and submit an opponent using joint locks and chokeholds — regardless of their size or strength. At Avant-Guard BJJ in Longmont, CO, we make it accessible and practical for everyone.

None at all. Every person who trains at Avant-Guard BJJ started exactly where you are. Our coaches are experienced at working with brand-new beginners and will guide you through everything from day one.

Your first class will include a warm-up, a demonstration of a few fundamental techniques, and some light partner drilling. You won't be thrown into intense sparring right away — the focus is on learning and feeling comfortable. Most people leave their first class surprised by how welcoming and fun it is.

Not at all. You don't need to be fit, strong, or flexible to walk through our doors. BJJ itself will get you in shape over time. Many of our members started training specifically to improve their fitness and have seen incredible results.

For your first visit, comfortable athletic clothing — like shorts and a t-shirt — is perfectly fine. Once you decide to train regularly, you'll want to invest in a gi (the traditional uniform) or rash guard and shorts for no-gi classes. We can point you in the right direction on gear.

At Avant-Guard BJJ, we welcome students of all ages. We have programs for kids as well as adults, so whether you're signing up your child or yourself, there's a place for you here in Longmont.

To get started you really only need athletic clothes. As you progress, you'll want a gi (typically $80–$160) and possibly a mouthguard. We can advise you on exactly what to buy and when — no need to spend money on gear before you're ready.

Two to three times per week is the sweet spot for most beginners. It gives your body enough time to recover while still building muscle memory and progress. Consistency matters far more than intensity when you're just starting out.

Most classes at Avant-Guard BJJ run approximately 60 minutes, covering warm-up, technique instruction, and drilling. Some classes include live sparring (called "rolling") toward the end.

Yes — BJJ has a strong culture of mutual respect and safety. Students are taught to "tap out" the moment they feel discomfort, and training partners are expected to stop immediately. At Avant-Guard BJJ, we cultivate a supportive environment where your safety always comes first.

Tapping out is how you signal to your partner that you want them to stop — you literally tap their body or the mat with your hand. It's a core part of BJJ culture and means no one gets hurt. There is absolutely no shame in tapping; it's what every smart BJJ practitioner does, from white belts to black belts.

Like any physical activity, minor soreness is normal — especially early on. Serious injuries are uncommon when training is done properly. At Avant-Guard BJJ, our coaches emphasize technique and control over ego-driven training, which keeps the mat safe for everyone.

BJJ gyms are known for being some of the most tight-knit, welcoming communities in all of sports. At Avant-Guard BJJ in Longmont, you'll find people from all walks of life — different ages, fitness levels, and backgrounds — united by a love of learning and growth. Leave your ego at the door and you'll fit right in.

BJJ has five adult belts: white, blue, purple, brown, and black. Each belt reflects your growing technical knowledge and mat experience. Promotions are based on skill and time, not testing fees. Stripes are added to each belt to mark incremental progress along the way.

On average, earning a BJJ black belt takes 8–12 years of consistent training. But don't let that intimidate you — the journey itself is the reward. Each belt level brings new skills, confidence, and friendships that make every step worthwhile.

Progress in BJJ can be subtle at first, but you'll notice it — techniques start to feel more natural, you'll move better, and sparring becomes less overwhelming. Your coaches at Avant-Guard BJJ will also give you feedback and guidance along the way. Belt and stripe promotions are a formal recognition of your growth.

Absolutely. BJJ was designed around technique over strength, which makes it one of the most effective and empowering martial arts for women. Many of our female members train BJJ specifically for self-defense, fitness, and the incredible community it provides. You'll feel at home at Avant Guard BJJ.

Yes — BJJ is one of the best activities for children. It builds confidence, discipline, focus, and resilience while teaching them how to stay calm under pressure. Kids also learn important anti-bullying skills in a positive, structured environment.

Absolutely. BJJ is one of the few martial arts you can practice well into your 50s, 60s, and beyond. Training can be adapted to your pace and physical needs. Many of our adult members started later in life and have found it transformative for both their physical health and mental sharpness.

BJJ is widely considered one of the most practical martial arts for real-world self-defense. Most altercations end up on the ground, and BJJ gives you the tools to control and neutralize a threat regardless of their size. It's especially effective for situations where a smaller person needs to defend against a larger attacker.

Unlike striking-based arts like boxing or karate, BJJ specializes in grappling and ground control. It doesn't rely on speed, power, or size — making it uniquely effective for people of all builds. BJJ is also a core component of MMA and is widely recognized by self-defense experts as one of the highest-value martial arts to learn.