Q&A
General
I've never trained before — is that actually ok? Completely. Most of our members hadn't thrown a punch before they walked in either.
Am I too old to start? No. People start with us in their 30s, 40s and 50s, and not just to potter about — some end up competing.
I'm really unfit. Should I get in shape first? Nope, that's backwards — getting fit is the point. Go at your own pace, grab water whenever, sit a round out if you need to. Nobody's watching the new person and judging.
Which class should I start with? Don't overthink it. In your first week, try a striking class, a BJJ class, and a strength session — three completely different feelings, and one of them will click.
Can I just come and watch a class first? Of course. Come down, have a look, get a feel for the room and chat to a coach.
Training & safety
Will I get hurt? It's a contact sport and we won't pretend it isn't. But beginner training is controlled: technique first and there's always a coach watching the room.
Will I have to spar or fight on day one? No. Early training is drills, pads and bags — not getting hit. Sparring is optional, and it only comes once you've actually got your defence sorted.
I keep getting tapped / submitted. Am I just bad at this? No — that's the job, not a sign you're failing. Everyone gets tapped constantly when they start, and plenty of black belts still happen to tap. The only people who get hurt are the ones too proud to tap.
Do I need to be flexible or a certain body type for BJJ? No. You don't need to touch your toes — you need to learn to move your body into good positions, and that comes with reps, not yoga.
What to expect
What should I wear and bring? Comfy gym gear — shorts and a t-shirt are fine. Bring a water bottle and yourself.
Do I need my own gear, or can I borrow some? You don't need anything to start — we've got spare gloves and pads for your first sessions. And with your first 2 weeks you get a pair of gloves as a gift (limited offering).
What actually happens on my first day? Rock up about 10 minutes early and someone will be there to say hi — you'll get a quick tour, tell the coach you're new, get partnered with someone friendly, and go at your own pace.
A few house rules. Nothing complicated — keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed (your training partners will thank you), no shoes on the mats, and give yourself and your kit a wash before class.
How often should I train? Whatever fits your life — but if you can swing it, aim for two or three times a week. Once a week works and plenty of people do it too.
The classes
What's "No-Gi"? It's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu without the gi (the kimono) — just shorts and a rashguard, nothing to grab but each other. We run No-Gi because it's training the way you'd actually fight. New to it? You'll start with the basics, partnered up, no pressure.
Already train / competing
I already train — can I just drop in? Yep. Drop in, watch a session, roll with us.
Do you have a competition team? Can I compete? We do, and we're actively building it. We don't charge extra for ambition.
Booking
Do I need to book a class? If it is your first class, no need - just come over. If you are a membership holder, please book in all classes, the stats can help us make the better scheduling for you in future.
What happens after the trial weeks? If Cortex is your place, we'll sort out a membership that suits how you want to train — easiest to have that chat in person at the gym. No pressure, no hard sell.