None at all. Every program at Gracie Barra Georgetown is designed to receive complete beginners. The curriculum is structured so that students with no background learn at the same pace as everyone else who started from zero, which is most of the current students.

The youngest program starts at age 2. From there, programs run continuously through the teen years: Tiny Champions (2 to 4), Little Champions I (5 to 7), Little Champions II (8 to 10), and Juniors (10 and 13), GB1 (14+). Each group is taught at the appropriate developmental level.

Yes. Children's classes use age-appropriate drills, controlled partner work, and games that develop coordination and technique without contact-based risk. Sparring in kids' classes is supervised, structured, and calibrated to each child's level. Safety is built into the curriculum, not treated as secondary.

This is one of the most common concerns parents bring in, and it is usually the children who arrive shy or physically hesitant who show the most visible transformation. The environment is designed to be welcoming rather than competitive from day one. The coaches have worked with hundreds of children across every personality type.

Twice a week is enough for consistent, visible progress. Three times a week accelerates it noticeably. Most families start with two sessions and adjust from there based on how the child responds.

No. The free trial class requires nothing: no uniform, no gear, no enrollment form.

GB1 Fundamentals is specifically designed for adults starting from zero. The class covers the core positions, techniques, and movement patterns of Jiu-Jitsu at a pace built for beginners. Most adult students in that program have no prior experience.

Competitions are available for students who want them, and the coaching team provides full preparation and support when that time comes. They are never required. Many students train for years and compete only when they feel ready, or choose not to compete at all.