Catch Jiu Jitsu

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about kids BJJ, enrollment, and training in Kaohsiung.

About Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts

1. What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)? +

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art focused on grappling and ground fighting. Unlike striking martial arts (like Karate or Taekwondo), BJJ emphasizes technique and leverage over size or strength. Students learn to control opponents through positions, holds, and submissions in a safe, controlled environment.

At Catch Jiu Jitsu, we teach a system-based approach that combines Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with Judo and Wrestling for a complete grappling education. Our philosophy is that children learn best through doing—not memorizing—so we use problem-solving scenarios to help them discover techniques naturally.

2. How is BJJ different from Karate, Taekwondo, or other martial arts? +

Striking Arts (Karate, Taekwondo): Emphasize punches and kicks; matches are scored by landing strikes on specific body parts.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Focuses on positional control and grappling; matches are won by achieving dominant positions or submissions. BJJ is considered the most effective martial art for real-world self-defense because most physical confrontations end up on the ground.

Judo: A throwing and grappling art; similar to BJJ but with different rules and emphasis.

Catch's Advantage: We teach all three (BJJ, Judo, Wrestling) so students get a complete grappling toolkit and can compete in multiple disciplines.

3. What are the real benefits of BJJ for children? +

Physical Benefits:

  • Full-body strength and conditioning without the impact of striking arts
  • Improved flexibility, balance, and core strength
  • Excellent cardiovascular fitness through mat training

Mental & Emotional Benefits:

  • Resilience: Children learn to overcome challenges and get back up after "losing"
  • Problem-solving: BJJ is like physical chess—students develop tactical thinking
  • Self-confidence: Achieving belt promotions and technical milestones builds genuine confidence
  • Discipline & focus: Training requires concentration and respect for structure
  • Emotional regulation: Physical exertion combined with mindful practice helps children manage stress and frustration

Social Benefits:

  • Strong sense of community and belonging
  • Friendships with peers who share the same goals
  • Exposure to diverse backgrounds through training and competitions
  • Understanding of "winning" and "losing" in a healthy context
4. Will BJJ make my child more aggressive? +

No—the opposite. Our experience shows that BJJ actually makes children less aggressive and more emotionally intelligent.

Here's why: In BJJ, children learn that real strength comes from technique and control, not violence. They discover that the "tough" approach fails against someone with better positioning. Over time, this builds respect for others and a deeper understanding of proportional force.

Additionally, BJJ gives children a healthy outlet for physical energy and competitive drives. Many parents report that their child is calmer, more patient, and better at conflict resolution after training—because they've learned to solve problems using skill instead of aggression.

Key difference: Our curriculum emphasizes that strength should be used to protect, not to harm. We teach respect, sportsmanship, and controlled technique from day one.
5. Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu safe for young children? +

Yes. BJJ is one of the safest martial arts when taught correctly. Here's how we keep kids safe at Catch:

  • Age-appropriate training: Our Youth (5-8) classes focus on fundamental movements and games—no high-risk techniques
  • Modified techniques: Submissions are taught but not applied full-force in lower age groups
  • Tap-out system: Children learn to communicate discomfort immediately by tapping, and partners must stop
  • Controlled rolling: Sparring is light and supervised; intensity increases gradually with age and skill
  • Qualified coaching: Our head instructor (Dan Reid—3rd degree black belt and Judo black belt) is trained in child safety and progression

Injury rates in BJJ are lower than in sports like soccer or basketball when proper technique is taught. The key is gradual progression and a culture of respect.

6. My child is shy or not athletic. Can they still do BJJ? +

Absolutely—in fact, BJJ is perfect for shy or less athletic kids. Here's why:

  • No judgment: BJJ is about personal progress, not comparison to others. We celebrate every belt promotion equally
  • Technical mastery over athleticism: A smaller, less athletic child with better technique will beat a larger, stronger child with poor technique. This is incredibly empowering
  • Builds confidence gradually: Success in BJJ is measurable and achievable for every child, regardless of starting point
  • One-on-one connection: Our coaches build individual relationships with every student and adapt teaching to their personality

Some of our most dedicated and successful students started as shy, non-athletic kids who gained tremendous confidence through training.

Getting Started: Age, Enrollment & Preparation

7. What is the minimum age to start BJJ? +

Our Youth program starts at age 5.

Why age 5? Most children at this age have sufficient attention span, listening skills, and body control to safely learn basic movements. We've found this is the sweet spot for introducing grappling concepts.

Teen & Adult: We offer Junior (9-15) and Adult (16+) classes, so there's a path for anyone, any age.

8. Do you offer free trial classes? +

Yes! We offer a free trial class so your child can experience the gym, meet the coaches, and see if BJJ is right for them—with zero commitment.

How it works:

  • Schedule a trial class through our website or contact us via Line
  • Your child attends a full class with our Youth or Junior instructors
  • We provide all equipment
  • Afterward, we chat about whether your child is interested in enrolling

Most kids fall in love with the community during their first class. Many parents are surprised by how much fun their child has.

9. What should my child wear to class? +

For your first class (trial): We provide everything. Your child can wear comfortable athletic clothes with no metal zippers.

For regular classes: A BJJ gi is necessary, we have discount packages for 3 months and a free gi. The gi consists of:

  • A jacket (top)
  • Pants
  • A belt (color indicates skill level)

Gi recommendations: We recommend a lightweight, pre-shrunk gi in size appropriate for your child. Budget NT$3000 for a quality youth gi. We have supplier recommendations and can help with sizing.

No shoes on the mat. BJJ training is done barefoot to protect joints and maintain floor hygiene.

10. What do I need to bring to class? +

For your child:

  • A gi
  • A water bottle

Optional but recommended:

  • A change of clothes

Parent/Guardian: You're welcome to stay and watch class, or feel free to grab coffee nearby. Most parents use this time to explore the Qianjin District or work nearby.

11. How do I enroll my child? What's the process? +

Step 1: Book a Free Trial
Contact us via our website form or Line to schedule a trial class.

Step 2: Attend the Trial
Your child attends a full class. We observe and make sure they're comfortable. You'll get feedback from the coaches.

Step 3: Choose a Membership Plan
If interested, we'll discuss which age group (Youth/Junior/Adult) and class frequency is best for your child and budget.

Step 4: Sign up for website
Our classes are all prebooked, this is done via our website. No long-term contract required—month-to-month flexibility.

Step 5: First Day!
Your child is now part of the Catch community. We'll support their progress every step of the way.

Pricing, Membership & Enrollment

12. What are your pricing options? +

Youth & Junior Programs (Kids):

  • Weekdays package: NT$3000/month
  • Weekend package: NT$3000/month
  • Unlimited: NT$3500/month

Adult Program (16+):

  • 10 Class pass (use within 3 months): NT$3500
  • Unlimited: NT$3500/month

Payment options: Monthly, quarterly, or annual plans available. We accept cash, bank transfer and Line Pay.

13. Do I need to sign a long-term contract? What if we need to cancel? +

No long-term contracts. We operate on a month-to-month basis because we want families to train with us because they want to, not because they're locked in.

Cancellation: You can cancel your membership anytime. We're confident you'll fall in love with our community.

Trial period: The first month is essentially a trial—if it's not working out, there's zero pressure to continue.

14. Do you offer discounts for multiple children or family memberships? +

Yes! We offer sibling and family discounts to make quality training accessible.

Sibling Discount: Talk to the front desk about offers.

Family Bundle: Two parents + two children can train together for a special package rate. Contact us for details.

Referral Program: Refer a friend who joins, and you'll receive one free week of training. We love word-of-mouth because it means our community is growing.

15. What's included in the monthly membership? +

Your membership includes:

  • Unlimited access to all classes in your age group (based on plan selected)
  • Professional instruction from certified coaches
  • Belt promotion testing (when your child is ready)
  • Community events (competitions, socials)
  • Access to our online resources (technique videos, class recordings)

Training, Progress & Competition

16. How long does it take to get a belt in BJJ? +

For children: Usually 1-3 years with consistent training (2-3 classes/week), starting from age 5. Belt progression depends on age, skill, and mat hours.

Why it takes time: The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu belt system is designed to ensure true mastery, not just attendance. To reach black belt, you need:

  • Technical proficiency in dozens of positions and techniques
  • Demonstrated understanding of principle and problem-solving
  • Leadership and mentoring capability
  • Consistent, respectful community participation

The journey is the reward. Most students find the belt progression itself highly motivating and rewarding—each promotion marks real, visible progress.

17. How often should my child attend classes to make progress? +

Minimum for progress: 2 classes/week. This is the sweet spot for most children to build muscle memory, develop technique, and make visible progress every month.

Ideal frequency: 3+ classes/week if your child is serious about progression and competition.

Reality: Even 1 class/week is better than nothing and keeps your child engaged, but progress will be slower.

Flexibility: Life happens. If your child misses a week due to school projects, illness, or travel, we welcome them back with no penalty. Consistency matters more than perfection.

Pro tip: Many families find that 2-3 classes/week becomes a healthy routine—it gives kids structure, burns energy, and builds real friendships.
18. Does my child have to compete in tournaments? +

No. Competition is completely optional. We have many dedicated students who train purely for the love of the sport, fitness, and community—never competing.

For those interested in competition: We run our own Catch Kids Competition every 6 months, plus we support students who want to compete in regional and national tournaments.

Competition benefits: For kids who want it, competing builds unshakeable confidence, teaches handling pressure, and creates incredible friendships with other gyms.

Our philosophy: Competition should be fun and educational, not stressful. We support whatever path your child chooses.

19. Do you have adult classes? What about parents training alongside kids? +

Yes, we have dedicated Adult (16+) classes with separate curriculum and scheduling.

Many adult members are parents! Some of our best families are ones where both parent and child train. It creates:

  • Shared language and experiences
  • Mutual respect and understanding
  • Quality family bonding time
  • Parents becoming better coaches/mentors to their kids

Adult beginner? No problem. We have beginners of all ages—from 16 to 60+. Jiu Jitsu is a lifetime sport.

Ready to Start Your BJJ Journey?

Book a free trial class today. No experience necessary—just bring your child and we'll handle the rest.

Book a Free Trial