Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Appalachian Grapplers, our classes, and membership options.

Classes & Training

For your first class, we recommend wearing athletic clothes with sleeved shirts and shorts or athletic pants. All our classes are NoGi, which means training is done in athletic wear (rashguard/shorts) rather than a traditional kimono.

No prior experience is necessary! Our classes are designed for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced practitioners. Our instructors will guide you through the basics and help you progress at your own pace.

NoGi training is done in athletic wear (rashguard/shorts) and relies on clinches and body control rather than fabric grips. All our classes are NoGi format, focusing on techniques that translate well to self-defense and competitive grappling situations.

Jiu Jitsu is a contact sport and injuries can happen. We don't shy away from that reality. What we do is work hard to minimize the risk by cultivating a culture of learning, respect, and care for our training partners. We ensure that all practitioners, especially beginners, train at a comfortable pace with appropriate partners, and our instructors emphasize controlled technique over intensity.

Membership & Payment

No! We don't believe in contracts or hidden fees. Our membership options are month-to-month with no long-term commitments required. You can cancel anytime if needed. We aim to keep training affordable and accessible for everyone.

Absolutely! We encourage newcomers to try a class before committing. Your first class is free - just show up a few minutes early to complete a waiver form, and we'll get you started. You can also purchase a Flex Pass for occasional training.

Our adult membership is $50/month and includes unlimited access to all adult classes and open mat sessions. Our youth membership is $35/month for twice-weekly classes. Both are billed monthly through Stripe, and you can cancel anytime. As a non-profit, all of our membership fees go directly to supporting the club operations.

Other Questions

Yes! We're a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our instructors volunteer their time, and all membership fees go toward rent, insurance, equipment, and club improvement. We're committed to providing affordable martial arts training to our community.

Feel free to reach out to us through any of these methods:

We're always happy to answer any questions you might have about training with us!