Indianapolis Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, LLC and Self-Defense

Q. What’s the difference between the class programs, i.e. Adult Basic and All Levels Classes?
A. Please visit our Schedules and Programs page for details on each class offered. On that page we have a description of each class/program.

Q. What classes can I take?
A. We recommend that if you have no prior experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that you start off by exclusively taking the Basics classes. You should have at least 6 months of Basics before attending the All Levels class. However, students of all levels are encouraged to attend Basic classes. The Kids class is for ages 8 – 13. Above age 14, we prefer you to attend the Adult class, but this can be addressed on an individual basis.

Q. Do you test for belts?
A. No. Advancement is given on an individual basis. When a student has reached a certain amount of classes they are eligible for a promotion. We are confident that we provide such great instruction at the academy, that students can be ranked by watching their attendance. As a result of good attendance, the knowledge of jiu-jitsu becomes more natural. Adult White belts are eligible for promotion after every 30 classes attended. For other adult belts, 80 classes. (Kids through age 15 are eligible for promotion after every 15 classes.) Student’s performance and progress are monitored regularly. We look for our students to show they have the knowledge and ability to perform techniques properly. They also need to have good personal character. Positive attitude, good conduct, and showing respect to our instructors, academy, and community members are all important qualities to be considered for promotion.

Q. What are the belt ranks?
A. For Adult (age 16 and up), White, Blue, Purple, Brown, Black, Red/Black, Red.
A. For Kids (through age 15), White, White/Yellow, Yellow, White/Orange, Yellow/Orange, Orange, White/Green, Yellow/Green, Orange/Green, Green.

Q. What equipment/uniform do I need for class?
A. Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program is based on the traditional teaching system from Brazil. Throwing, grappling, and submission techniques are practiced wearing a gi (pronounced “ghee”), or kimono. It is mandatory that a clean gi be worn for each class. You may wear a t-shirt or rash guard and shorts under your gi. Also, at your discretion you may wear a mouth guard, and protective cup.

Q. Where can I buy a gi?
A. You may purchase a gi at the academy, or you can shop online yourself. There are many brands available. Expect to pay anywhere from $75 - $150 for a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu style gi.

Q. How do I pay for classes?
A. We have several payment options available. See our Location and Fee’s page for details.

Q. Can I pay by the class?
A. No. We do not accept daily payments. We offer classes 6 days a week at various times to provide everyone with a chance to train. Also, private classes are available. We offer unlimited training per month and our tuition rates are up to 30% below the national average. Our program is designed for people who have the desire to put forth the dedication required to achieve the maximum benefits of our programs. If you have limited availability to attend our regular classes you may consider privates lessons.

Q. How many classes a week should I attend?
A. We understand that people work, go to school, and/or have family activities and commitments, therefore, your personal schedule will determine how many classes you can take each week. It is ideal that you target for at least two classes per week, and if you can do more that’s even better.

Q. Are all jiu-jitsu schools the same?
A. No. Jiu-Jitsu schools all have their own personalities. They all don’t necessarily offer or focus on the same things. Before joining a school you have to know what your goals and objectives are. If your goal is learning self-defense, then make sure you find a school that teaches self-defense rather than one that emphasizes preparing students for cage fighting or submission grappling events. Keep in mind Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was created by the Gracie family as a self-defense system that people can use in real life street situations, where there are no rules and no points. Many schools are straying away from that and only focus on preparing students for sport competition. When looking for a jiu-jitsu school be sure to look into the instructors’ linage and background to make sure they got their training from a qualified, legitimate source. Also, before signing up you should visit the school to see what the instruction is like, the facility, the students, and the overall atmosphere. Ultimately it’s your decision to make, and it’s worth doing some homework.

Q. How long have you been in business?
A. Professor Greg Eldred has been a practioner of jiu-jitsu since 1991, which is over 18 years. He began teaching jiu-jitsu in 1993 when he started one of the first Gracie Jiu-Jitsu training Associations in the United States, in Cincinnati, OH. Therefore, Greg has been in the business of teaching jiu-jitsu for over 16 years. For those 16 years, Greg has operated an academy in Cincinnati, OH, Westfield, IN, and at his current location in Carmel, IN. Greg was the first jiu-jitsu instructor in southern Ohio, and in central Indiana. Even today some of the jiu-jitsu schools in those areas are an indirect result of Greg’s efforts.

Q. Do you always train with a gi?
A. Most of the time. Occasionally, the gi is removed for training. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was created as an effective street self-defense system. It provides you with the tools to defend yourself in real life situations. Wearing the gi simulates everyday clothing that people wear.

Q. How do I get started?
A. Call to make your appointment to come in. You are welcome to take a free introductory class, or just watch if you wish. This is a great opportunity for you to meet the instructor, see the facility, and interact with some of the students. Also this is a chance for you to see first hand some of jiu-jitsu’s proven techniques, and to see the quality of instruction at our academy. You will not get any high pressure sales pitch, and there is no obligation. You can call Greg Eldred at 317-506-0973 or email him at indianapolisbjj@aol.com to set up an appointment.