If this is your first class please wear tighter fitting athletic wear (i.e. rashguard or dry fit shirt and bicycle shorts or athletic shorts for either gi or no gi classes.

If you have previous experience please reference the academy dress code. 

No-Gi:

1. Rashguards/Dry-fit shirts are required.
2. Shorts over spats are required if you are male.

Gi:

1. Rashguards are required under your gi.
2. Gi’s must be clean and in good condition (i.e. no fraying or holes) this is to protect all student from getting fingers caught and potentially getting hurt.

Not at all. BJJ is a great way to get in shape while learning something practical. Classes are designed to meet you where you are. Your strength, cardio, and flexibility will improve over time as part of the process.

While BJJ is a contact sport, it’s also built around control and safety. Beginners are taught to tap early and often to avoid injury. Instructors emphasize technique over strength and foster a respectful, controlled training environment.

Most classes begin with a warm-up, followed by technical instruction and drilling specific techniques. Many classes end with live sparring (called "rolling"), but beginners are never forced to spar until they feel ready. You’ll always be paired with partners who match your experience level. 

Yes, and if it’s one person doing solo drills or no one at all, this open mat will remain available at the same time every week. Why?

Having consistent women’s only open mats create a supportive and empowering space where women can train, connect, and grow without pressure or judgment. They can help build community and boost confidence—especially for beginners—and encourage more women to stay on the mats long term. By offering regular opportunities to train together, women can share knowledge, refine their skills, and feel more comfortable in what’s traditionally a male-dominated sport. Consistency is key—it shows our commitment to inclusion and gives women a dependable place to show up and improve every week.

There is a variety of places to purchase a gi. Our recommendation for your first gi is Elite, Hawk and for a little bit more you can try Sanabul or Fuji brand gi’s which can be purchased online at Amazon. Feel free to buy any color that suits your personal style or taste. All gi’s are allowed to be worn at State Of Flow.