New Students Start Here
The hardest part is walking through the door the first time
Everything after that, we will walk you through. Here is exactly what to expect, so you know what happens before you even arrive.
No experience needed. Your first class is free, and booking takes under a minute.
Day 0
Getting started is easier than you think
- Book your free class here. It takes under a minute.
- What to wear: comfortable athletic clothes. No uniform needed for your first class.
- Remove jewelry, and trim your nails so you do not scratch your training partners.
- Where we are: 725 Saxonburg Blvd #2, Saxonburg, PA 16056. Parking is available right outside the academy.
- Arrive about 10 minutes early so we can sign you in and show you around.
Good to know
You spar at your own pace, never forced. Your first class is about learning to move and trying a technique or two with a friendly partner.
Day 1
Here is exactly how it goes
A class runs in four simple parts:
- Warm-up: light movement and basic motions to get loose.
- Technique: a coach demonstrates and breaks it into steps.
- Drilling: you practice slowly with a partner, no resistance.
- Rolling: live practice. You go at your own pace, and you are never forced in before you are ready.
The most important thing you will learn: the tap
Tap your partner or the mat twice, clearly, or just say "tap" out loud. The instant you tap, your partner lets go. Tap any time you feel pain, pressure, or you are simply done. Tapping is not losing. It is how everyone trains safely for years.
Our culture
We shake hands, high five, or fist bump before and after every roll. Anyone can ask anyone to roll, and anyone can say no to a roll, no reason needed. Open mat, no ego.
Week 1
Come back, and keep it simple
- Aim for two to three classes this week. That is the sweet spot for steady progress without burning out.
- Expect to be sore and a little winded. Everyone is at first, even from gentle drilling.
- Keep it clean: wash your gear after every session, shower after class, keep your nails short, and never train sick.
- Ask questions freely. Nobody expects you to know anything yet.
Coach tip
Do not buy a pile of gear yet. Athletic clothes are fine to start.
Month 1
Focus on surviving, not winning
- Do not try to win. Try to survive and escape.
- Learn shrimping and bridging. They are the building blocks of almost everything.
- Start learning to escape from mount and side control.
- Relax and breathe. The biggest beginner mistake is using all your strength and holding your breath.
- Keep tapping early.
The honest part
Around week three or four, a lot of beginners feel frustrated, like everyone taps them and they are not improving. This is completely normal, and it is the exact moment most quitters quit. Push through it. The curve turns upward right after, and we are here to help you get there.
30 to 90 Days
From surviving to playing the game
- You will learn the positional hierarchy, which positions win and which to escape.
- You will get comfortable with light, live rolling.
- You will start adding offense: an escape, a sweep, a submission.
- Take a few notes after class. It doubles what you remember.
- Take care of the basics off the mat: balanced meals, hydration, and sleep.
Coach tip
Do not chase belts or stripes. Promotions come with time, understanding, and consistency.
Beyond 90 Days
You are not a beginner anymore
- Set personal goals for where you want to take it.
- Start helping the newcomers. Teaching is how you sharpen your own game.
- Competition is optional and never required.
- Train sustainably, in a way you can keep doing for decades.
Your Milestones
Your first 90 days, clear goals to aim for
Week 1
- Show up for your first class
- Learn to tap
- Try shrimping and bridging
- Meet your coach and a training partner
- Book your next class
Month 1 (about 6 to 8 classes)
- Build the two to three times a week habit
- Tap early, no ego
- Perform one escape from mount or side control
- Know the basic etiquette and hygiene
- Get your uniform or training gear
Month 2 (about 8 to 16 classes)
- Stay consistent week to week
- Name the core positions and the hierarchy
- Do light live rolling comfortably
- Show two reliable escapes
- Stay calm and breathe under pressure
Month 3 (around 90 days)
- Reach roughly 25 to 30 total classes
- Demonstrate four beginner escapes
- Land one sweep and one guard pass in drilling
- Finish a full class of live rounds comfortably
- Set your next personal goal with a coach
Get Help
Questions? We are here anytime
- Ask a coach on the mat. That is what we are here for.
- Call or text: 724-841-9997
- Email: Jason@ejjpa.com
- See class times: Schedule and Pricing
The hardest part is walking through the door. Let's get it behind you.
Book your free class and come see what it is about. No experience needed, no pressure.