A New Kind of Family Activity In today’s fast-paced world, parents are constantly looking for meaningful, enriching activities for their children—and for themselves. Many families default to traditional sports like soccer, basketball, or gymnastics. But increasingly, families in Queens are turning to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) as a powerful alternative. At Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens, we’ve seen firsthand how this art transforms not just individuals, but entire households. This isn’t just a kids' activity. It’s a shared experience. A lifestyle. A path toward personal growth, together. Here’s why more and more families are choosing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu over traditional sports—and why it may be the perfect fit for yours. The Benefits of BJJ for Children Focus, Discipline, and Respect One of the first things parents notice after enrolling their children in BJJ is a shift in behavior. Jiu-Jitsu classes emphasize listening skills, self-control, and respect for others. Students bow before stepping on the mat, they thank their partners, and they respond attentively to instruction. These habits translate quickly to school, home, and social settings. Children develop a sense of accountability that carries into every part of their lives. Physical Coordination and Confidence Unlike some sports that focus primarily on one set of skills, BJJ builds a wide range of physical abilities—balance, coordination, agility, strength, and body awareness. More importantly, it builds self-confidence. When a child learns how to execute a technique properly, or escapes from a tricky position, they feel empowered. This confidence stays with them. It shows up in how they speak, how they walk, and how they interact with the world. Real Self-Defense Skills Parents often worry about bullying or unsafe situations. BJJ provides real tools for self-protection—without encouraging violence. Children learn how to stay calm under pressure, how to control a situation without throwing punches, and how to de-escalate with confidence. Why It Works for Parents Too More Than Just Drop-Off With most kids' activities, parents are relegated to the sidelines. You watch. You wait. With Jiu-Jitsu, you can join in. Many of our adult students are parents who started by watching their children’s classes—and ended up signing up themselves. We offer adult classes at times that align with kids’ classes, so parents can train while their kids do. It becomes a shared experience that deepens family bonds and sets a powerful example. Mental Health and Stress Relief Parents deal with enormous stress—work, finances, family obligations. Jiu-Jitsu is a release valve. It helps you reset. It clears your head and focuses your energy. The physical movement combined with the mental challenge of learning techniques makes it a complete form of therapy for many adults. Functional Fitness That Lasts Unlike short-term gym routines or fitness trends that come and go, Jiu-Jitsu builds lifelong habits. It’s about consistent improvement, not perfection. It adapts to your age and abilities, and the skills you develop are useful for everyday life and longevity. How BJJ Compares to Traditional Sports Everyone Participates Equally In team sports, playing time often depends on skill level, politics, or popularity. Not so in Jiu-Jitsu. Every student gets the same opportunity to learn, drill, and improve. Whether your child is shy, outgoing, athletic, or still finding their groove, they’ll be welcomed and challenged equally. Progress Is Personal and Measurable BJJ uses a belt ranking system, allowing kids and adults alike to set and reach goals. Instead of being judged on wins or losses, students are evaluated on effort, understanding, consistency, and character. Progress is visible and celebrated. No “Off-Season” Many traditional sports operate in short seasons, requiring kids to switch constantly or lose momentum. Jiu-Jitsu is year-round. That consistency helps children (and adults) build real habits, stay active, and maintain steady growth. A Culture of Humility and Growth The culture in many team sports can sometimes be competitive in ways that aren't always healthy—fostering ego, cliques, or performance pressure. Jiu-Jitsu, on the other hand, demands humility. No matter how skilled you become, there is always more to learn. That creates a culture of mutual respect and lifelong learning. What a Typical Family Experience Looks Like The First Visit You walk in with your child. Maybe they’re nervous. Maybe you are, too. The staff greets you warmly and walks you through what to expect. Your child is paired with a friendly, experienced coach who introduces them to basic movements. You watch from the sidelines—or maybe you join the adult class running in the other room. The First Week Your child begins to look forward to class. They tell you about what they learned. They come home tired, happy, and proud. You notice their posture changing. Their energy shifting. You decide to give it a try, too. The First Month Now you’re both training. You swap stories on the way home. Your child talks about how they learned to escape mount. You tell them how you finally hit that sweep you were struggling with. It becomes a shared language—a bond that grows with every class. Getting Started as a Family Our Schedule We offer kids classes in the afternoons and on weekends, and adult classes in the mornings and evenings. That allows you to train in parallel with your child—or solo, depending on your needs. What to Bring Just comfortable clothes for the first class. We provide the rest. We also offer family memberships and pricing options to make training accessible. What It Costs We believe Jiu-Jitsu should be affordable and sustainable. Ask us about our family packages, discounts, and flexible plans. We want to make it work for you. Try a Free Class Together Still wondering if it’s right for your family? Come try a free class—together. Experience the environment, meet the instructors, and see how Jiu-Jitsu can fit into your lives. There’s no commitment—just one hour that could change everything. A Stronger Family, One Class at a Time Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just another after-school activity. It’s a powerful tool for growth, connection, and transformation. For kids, it builds discipline, confidence, and resilience. For parents, it offers fitness, community, and stress relief. For families, it creates shared memories and mutual respect. In Queens, more and more families are discovering the difference—and you can too. Schedule your free class today at Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens and take the first step toward a stronger, healthier, more connected family. We’ll see you on the mat.

The Decision to Begin Something New It’s not always easy to decide when—or whether—to begin something new. Especially something like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. You might be curious about it, maybe a friend mentioned it, or you’ve seen it online. You might even have driven by Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens, wondering what it’s like inside. But for many people, hesitation lingers. “Is this right for me?” This post is here to help you answer that question with clarity and confidence. You’ll discover that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more accessible, more welcoming, and more transformative than you might imagine. Whether you’re looking for better fitness, self-defense, a supportive community, or simply something new, this post outlines five honest, real-life signs you may be more ready to start than you think. You’re Bored with Traditional Workouts Routines That Go Nowhere You’ve tried the gym. You’ve done your time on treadmills, elliptical machines, or weight benches. Maybe you signed up for spin or yoga classes, hoping to find something that sticks. But none of it feels exciting anymore. The routines are repetitive. The results are slow. And worst of all, there’s little connection between you and the people around you. Why Jiu-Jitsu Is Different Jiu-Jitsu engages both your body and your mind. Every class is different. You’re learning how to move, how to respond, how to think through challenges. It’s never boring. The techniques build on each other, giving you a sense of constant progression. You’re not just burning calories—you’re gaining a skill. A Sense of Purpose Each class has a clear objective. You’re not just “working out”—you’re working toward something. Students often report that this gives them renewed motivation and direction. They look forward to class in a way they never did with the gym. You’re Looking for More Than Just Exercise Community Over Calories Maybe you’re not only looking to get fit. Maybe you want to connect with people. To feel part of something. To walk into a room and be greeted by name. To feel missed if you skip a class. That’s what Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens offers. We’re more than just a martial arts school—we’re a family. The people you train with will cheer you on when you’re making progress and pick you up when you’re struggling. Whether you’re 18 or 58, you’ll find others just like you: curious, motivated, and kind. A Safe and Supportive Space Jiu-Jitsu creates bonds fast. When you’re learning, struggling, and growing together on the mat, something powerful happens. People often say they’ve made lifelong friends through training. For many, class becomes a place to decompress, recharge, and feel seen. You’ve Been Curious but Hesitant “I’ve Always Wanted to Try It…” A lot of people carry the curiosity for months—or even years—before they take action. That’s completely normal. Starting something new can be daunting. The key is to recognize that the desire itself is a sign you’re ready. If you’ve read this far, you’re already taking the first steps. Overcoming Common Fears Let’s address some of the most common fears people have before their first class: “I don’t want to look foolish.” Everyone was new once. No one expects you to know anything on day one. “I’m worried I’ll be the oldest, slowest, or weakest.” Jiu-Jitsu meets you where you are. You’ll be surprised at the range of people training here. “What if I don’t know what to do?” That’s why we’re here. Our Fundamentals classes are designed specifically for beginners. You Don’t Need to Be Ready to Start One of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to “get in shape” before you start. You don’t. Training is what helps you get in shape. The only prerequisite is the willingness to try. You Want Real-World Self-Defense Beyond Fitness Fitness and community are important. But many people also come to Jiu-Jitsu because they want to feel safe. Capable. Prepared. Whether it’s for personal confidence, travel, or peace of mind, knowing how to protect yourself matters. Why BJJ Works Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on controlling and neutralizing threats without relying on strikes. It emphasizes technique, positioning, and leverage—skills that allow a smaller person to control a larger one. It’s not about aggression. It’s about control, safety, and effectiveness. Jiu-Jitsu is used by law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals around the world. It’s also incredibly adaptable, making it accessible to people of all sizes, ages, and backgrounds. Real Confidence Comes From Real Skill Learning self-defense isn’t about being paranoid or confrontational. It’s about walking through life with confidence. Knowing you can protect yourself—or others—if needed. That sense of empowerment can change the way you carry yourself in everyday life. You Live in or Around Queens Convenience and Accessibility We’re located in Kew Gardens, easily accessible from Forest Hills, Richmond Hill, Briarwood, and other surrounding neighborhoods. Our schedule includes beginner-friendly classes throughout the week, with options in the mornings, evenings, and weekends. No matter your schedule, you can find a time that works. A Local Resource, A Global Art When you join Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens, you’re not just joining a local martial arts school. You’re stepping into a global community. Jiu-Jitsu is practiced all over the world, and you’ll be part of that rich lineage. But it starts right here—close to home, in a place where you’re always welcomed. Testimonials From People Just Like You “I watched from the sidelines for months before I got the nerve to try it. I wish I hadn’t waited so long.” – Alex, 34 “I joined to get in shape, but I found a second family. Now I train three times a week, and it’s the best part of my day.” – Maya, 29 “I didn’t think I had time. But I made time. And it’s changed my life.” – Jon, 42 What Happens When You Try Your First Class It’s simple. You fill out a short form online. You get an email with directions and tips. You show up, and we take care of the rest. We provide the loaner gi. We walk you through the class. We match you with someone who’s been where you are. We answer your questions. We support you every step of the way. No contracts. No pressure. Just a safe, structured, positive introduction to one of the most powerful arts in the world. Still Not Sure? That’s okay. You don’t have to be 100% sure to try a class. That’s what the free class is for. It’s one hour. It could change your life. Book Your Free Class Today If even one of these five signs resonated with you, now is the time to act. Click here to schedule your free class at Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens. There’s no better way to find out if BJJ is right for you than to try it. We’ll see you on the mat.

Why This Guide Matters If you're thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), you're not alone. Every week, people from all walks of life—parents, professionals, students, and retirees—walk through the doors of Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens, unsure of what to expect but curious about what this art can offer. Maybe you’ve seen Jiu-Jitsu in a movie or heard a friend mention it. Maybe you’ve driven past our school in Kew Gardens and wondered what goes on behind those doors. Whatever brought you here, this guide will answer your questions, calm your nerves, and help you decide whether this life-changing practice is right for you. What Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that focuses on grappling, ground fighting, and submission holds. Unlike striking arts like karate or boxing, BJJ is about control and technique. You’ll learn how to neutralize a larger, stronger opponent using leverage, timing, and strategy. Think of it as a physical chess match—every move has a counter, and success is as much about the mind as it is about the body. The Philosophy Behind BJJ At its core, BJJ is about self-improvement. It teaches patience, discipline, humility, and resilience. As you train, you'll make mistakes. You'll be humbled. But you'll also grow in confidence, strength, and awareness. That’s what makes BJJ such a powerful tool—not just for self-defense, but for life. Who Can Train Jiu-Jitsu? Anyone. And we mean it. We’ve trained people as young as four and as old as seventy. Our mats welcome every gender, background, and fitness level. You do not need to be an athlete. You do not need to be in shape. You don’t need to have experience. You just need to show up. Common Concerns From Beginners "I’m out of shape." That’s okay. BJJ will help you get in shape. "I’m too old." You’re never too old to learn something new. "I have no experience." Most people who start have none. We’re here to teach you. "I’m nervous." That’s normal. But once you walk in, you’ll realize how supportive the community is. What to Expect in Your First Class Walking into any new space can be intimidating, especially one where people are grappling in uniforms. That’s why we go out of our way to make your first experience smooth, respectful, and even fun. Before You Arrive When you sign up for your free class, we’ll send you a quick guide on what to bring and what to expect. Generally, you’ll wear comfortable athletic clothes—sweatpants and a t-shirt are perfect. We’ll provide the uniform (called a gi) for your first class. Meeting the Team You’ll be greeted by our front desk staff or one of the coaches. We’ll introduce you to your instructor, who will walk you through everything before class starts. You’ll never be left wondering where to go or what to do. Warm-Up Classes start with a light warm-up: jogging, shrimping, hip escapes, and mobility exercises designed to prepare your body for movement. Don’t worry if you don’t know what these are—we’ll teach you. Technique This is the heart of the class. The instructor will demonstrate a position or sequence, then break it down step by step. You’ll pair up with another student and practice it. If you’re brand new, we’ll usually pair you with someone more experienced. Drills Once you’ve practiced the movement slowly, you’ll do a few controlled drills to help the techniques feel more natural. Rolling (Optional) Live sparring (called "rolling") is never mandatory. If you’re new, we may invite you to observe or try light positional sparring with close guidance. You won’t be thrown into anything beyond your comfort zone. After Class You’ll have a chance to ask questions, return the loaner gi, and talk about next steps. Most people walk out smiling, surprised at how welcoming and fun the experience was. Building Your Routine: The First Month Consistency is key. Most beginners who fall in love with BJJ attend 2–3 classes per week. That gives your body time to adapt and your mind time to absorb the material. Here’s what your first month might look like: Week 1: Getting used to the warm-ups and learning basic positions (guard, mount, side control). Week 2: Introduction to escapes and simple submissions. Week 3: Developing comfort with transitions and drills. Week 4: Optional rolling, building confidence, and refining your basics. Why Train at Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens? There are many martial arts schools in New York, but here’s what makes us different: 1. Welcoming Environment Our coaches remember what it was like to be new. We value patience, kindness, and encouragement. No egos here—just people helping people. 2. Beginner-Focused Curriculum Our Fundamentals classes are specifically designed for new students. We build your knowledge step-by-step and reinforce key concepts every week. 3. Flexible Schedule We offer beginner classes six days a week, with options in the morning, evening, and weekends. Whether you work late or have young kids, we’ll help you find time to train. 4. Central Location Located in Kew Gardens, we’re accessible via multiple train lines and highways, making it easy to reach from Forest Hills, Richmond Hill, Briarwood, and beyond. 5. Proven Instructors Our head instructors are experienced, passionate teachers who have trained and competed at elite levels. But more importantly, they love working with beginners. How BJJ Improves Your Life It’s not just about learning how to fight. Training Jiu-Jitsu can improve your life in unexpected ways. Physical Benefits Improved cardiovascular health Increased flexibility and mobility Functional strength and core stability Better posture and joint health Mental Benefits Reduced stress and anxiety Improved focus and mental clarity Increased resilience and discipline Enhanced problem-solving under pressure Social Benefits Join a supportive, tight-knit community Make friends across all walks of life Participate in team events and social gatherings Feel a sense of belonging and purpose How to Prepare for Your Free Class Wear comfortable clothes (sweats, t-shirt) Bring a water bottle Arrive 10–15 minutes early Come with an open mind We’ll handle the rest. Book Your Free Class Today You’ve read the guide. You’re curious. You might even be a little excited. Take the next step. Click here to schedule your free class at Royal Jiu-Jitsu Queens. No pressure. No contracts. Just one hour that could change everything. Whether you're trying to get fit, learn self-defense, find a new community, or just try something different—this is where you start. We'll see you on the mat.