Competition season is around the corner for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Pittsburgh. To help our active competitors prepare to perform at this level, we have added a new competition class on Tuesday nights, 8pm to 8:45pm. We had our first class last night, and there was a lot of sweat on the mat when we finished. And we plan to keep that pace.
If you trained with us last night, you already have an idea of what to expect from future classes. If you missed out, here’s what you need to know.
Who can take the class?
The competition jiu-jitsu class is open to all active jiu-jitsu students. We aren’t enforcing a minimum rank or competition record either. At the same time, the class format deviates from our traditional model, placing an emphasis on drills and rolling over instruction. Brand new students should probably spend their time in the beginner’s classes to work their way into the advanced classes before jumping into the competition class.
What will the class be like?
You’re going to work, and you’re going to work hard. Competition matches can be high-intensity and incredibly challenging, so we have to match that pace in the gym. We’ll be doing lots of drills and lots of positional sparring. Your training partners will push you. And you will leave tired.
Who is teaching the competition class?
Santino is running the class. Since there is less of a focus on instruction the class itself will be more like a structured group training session. Upper belts will be present, but rather than teach you how to do a move, they will spend more of their time training alongside you. There will still be many opportunities to learn, the format will just be different from what you might be used to.
Do I have to take the class to compete?
Nope. We encourage all of our jiu-jitsu students to try competition at least once, whether they are beginners or veteran grapplers. The most important factors for us are that you challenge yourself and that you stay healthy. Winning is great, but we are most interested in seeing you grow as a martial artist. You don’t need medals to do that. The competition class will be a great way to prepare and to get in better shape for tournaments, but it won’t be mandatory.
If you have more questions about the class, please let us know. We can’t wait to train with you!
Steel city is more than good martial arts......its good family
An outstanding place and people! My son looks up to all the instructors especially his Sensei and his son Santino, great guys!
A great place to train jiujitsu. Friendly and helpful athletes, nice space, and extremely clean. This school is for the all levels and abilities. Highly recommend.