Families Guide

Why BJJ as a Family Activity?

Training BJJ together creates unique family bonding:
- Shared goals and challenges
- Quality time together off screens
- Mutual respect through shared experience
- Built-in training partners at home
- Healthy lifestyle modeled for kids
- Inside jokes and shared language

Family Program Options

1. Parallel Training
Kids and adults train in separate classes at the same time. This is most common and allows age-appropriate instruction.

2. Family Classes
Some gyms offer mixed classes where parents and kids train together. Great for younger kids (4-8).

3. All-In Approach
Entire family trains, but in age-appropriate classes throughout the week. Meet up for open mats.

Getting Everyone On Board

• Start with a family trial class
• Let each family member decide their own level of commitment
• Don't force it—some family members might prefer to cheer from the sidelines
• Focus on fun and shared experience, not competition

First Family Class

• Arrive early to get everyone settled
• Wear comfortable athletic clothes
• Bring water for everyone
• Take a family photo in gis afterward
• Grab food together and talk about the experience

"Do gyms offer family discounts?"

Most gyms offer family rates when multiple members train. Ask about packages—often 10-30% off for additional family members.

"Can parents and kids train together?"

It depends on the gym and ages. Young kids typically need separate classes. Teens can often join adult classes. Some gyms have family open mat times.

"What if family members progress at different rates?"

This is normal and healthy. Everyone learns at their own pace. Celebrate each person's individual journey.

"How do we schedule around work, school, activities?"

Look for gyms with flexible schedules. Many families do 2-3 classes per week, not necessarily all together. Weekend classes can be easier for families.

"What if one person wants to quit?"

Each family member should have autonomy over their training. If someone wants to stop, that's okay. Don't force it—the pressure can backfire.

"Should we compete as a family?"

Competing together can be amazing, but it's optional. Some families love the tournament experience, others prefer casual training. Let it evolve naturally.

"What about family dynamics on the mat?"

Set boundaries. Some families love rolling together, others prefer to train with others at the gym. There's no right answer—do what works for your family.

"Is it weird for parents to be lower rank than their kids?"

Not at all! Kids often progress faster if they start young. It's a great lesson in humility and learning from anyone.

Building Family BJJ Culture

Month 1-3: The Honeymoon
- Everyone's excited and eager
- Learning basic terminology together
- Lots of at-home practice and play
- Sharing what you learned in class

Focus: Make it fun, low-pressure, social

Month 4-12: The Grind
- Excitement may fade—this is normal
- Some family members may want to quit
- Initial progress plateaus
- Schedules get challenging

Focus: Consistency over intensity, celebrate small wins

Year 2+: The Lifestyle
- BJJ becomes part of family identity
- Inside jokes and shared references
- Natural check-ins about training
- Supporting each other through plateaus

Focus: Long-term growth, individual journeys, shared pride

Family Training Dynamics

At the Gym
- Let kids see you struggle and learn
- Model good etiquette and respect
- Avoid coaching from the sidelines
- Give each other space to have independent relationships with instructors and training partners

At Home
- Light drilling in living room (if space allows)
- Stretching together
- Watching BJJ matches as a family
- Talking about techniques over dinner
- Setting individual and family goals

Handling Different Progression Rates

Kids often progress faster than adults:
- They have less fear
- More flexible and recover faster
- Often more available training time
- Less analytical, more instinctive

This is wonderful! Learn from each other regardless of rank.

Family-Friendly Gym Checklist

1. Family Programs & Pricing
- Clear family membership options
- Reasonable pricing for multiple members
- Flexible commitment terms
- What's included for each family member

2. Schedule Compatibility
- Overlapping class times for parallel training
- Weekend options for full family participation
- Open mat times when family can train together
- Make-up class flexibility

3. Age-Appropriate Programs
- Solid kids' program with qualified instructors
- Teen program or teen-friendly adult classes
- Adult classes at multiple skill levels
- Family classes or events

4. Family Culture
- Other families training there
- Welcoming to all ages and skill levels
- Family-friendly events (bbqs, open houses, etc.)
- Supportive community vibe

5. Facilities
- Clean, spacious facility
- Adequate parking
- Waiting area for family members
- Good air circulation (important with multiple sweaty family members!)

Questions to Ask

• Do you offer family memberships? What's included?
• Are there other families who train here?
• Can parents and kids roll together during open mat?
• Do you have family-oriented events?
• What's your policy if one family member wants to take a break?
• Do you offer private family lessons?

Visit as a Family

Watch classes together, meet the instructors, get a feel for the vibe. The right gym will make everyone feel welcome.

Making the Decision

• Each family member should have a say
• Try multiple gyms if possible
• Consider logistics (location, schedule) heavily
• Trust your gut on culture fit
• Remember: you can always switch if it's not working