Classes
BJJ Fundamentals (Mon, Tues, Thu: 6pm-7pm / Wed (No-Gi): 6pm-7pm)
Our primary goal when a new person begins training is to get them playing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) as quickly and as safely as possible. We focus on foundational skills that allow beginners to transition smoothly through the core phases of the BJJ game:
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Standing to Ground Transitions: Learning how to safely and effectively move from standing positions to the ground.
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Passing vs Guard Play: Understanding the dynamics of passing an opponent's guard and defending or playing guard.
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Control, Submission, and Escape: Developing skills to control opponents, apply submissions, and escape unfavorable positions.
In addition to physical techniques, beginners are taught the BJJ scoring system to help them understand the competitive aspect of the sport. We measure our success when a beginner can watch a BJJ match or an MMA fight and confidently analyze the action, almost like an expert commentator. Most importantly, we emphasize the concept of subtractive epistemology — teaching "what not to do." This approach helps beginners avoid common mistakes and dangerous habits, enabling them to train safely and sustainably over the long term. Our goal is to keep students training consistently and injury-free, fostering a lifelong practice of BJJ.​
BJJ Intermediate/Advanced (Mon, Tues, Thu: 7pm - 8:30pm / Wed (No-Gi): 7pm - 8:30pm)
The Intermediate/Advanced class is designed for competitors and practitioners who want to explore more advanced techniques and strategies. Due to the competition focus, we require a baseline cardiovascular fitness level: participants should feel comfortable performing three consecutive five-minute match simulations with only a one-minute rest between each, without feeling completely exhausted.
Technically, while beginners are guided on what to practice, intermediate and advanced practitioners are expected to have the awareness and experience to identify their own areas for improvement. They should know what aspects of their game to build, what drills to focus on, and what questions to ask, all without needing direct instruction.
Morning Class (Mon, Tues, Thu: 7:30am - 9m / Wed (no-gi): 7:30am - 9am)
The Morning Class accommodates those who, due to work, family, or other commitments, cannot attend the evening sessions. Instruction is designed to favor the lowest belt and least experienced students, while higher belt and more experienced practitioners assist by guiding others as they train themselves. This collaborative environment fosters learning, mentorship, and active participation for all skill levels.
Kids BJJ (6 - 9 years old) and Young Teens BJJ (10 - 14 years old)
Our goal for Kids and Young Teens is the same as for our adult beginners: to get them playing the game of BJJ as soon—and as safely—as possible.
What sets these youth classes apart is their increased structure and formality. We believe that rituals like bowing in and out of class help reinforce respect, focus, and a sense of belonging. Each student is also required to bring a BJJ notebook, which they’ll write in at the end of every class to reflect on what they’ve learned.
Kids (6-9 years old)
Thu: 5pm - 5:45pm
Sat: 9am - 10am
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Young Teens (10 -14 years old)
Mon: 5pm - 5:45pm
Wed (No-GI): 5pm - 5:45pm
Sat: 9am - 10am
Future Grapplers' Foundations Program (Sat. 1030am - 11:15am)
This class is designed for children ages 5-6 years old to begin their journey in BJJ in a safe, structured, and supportive environment. The focus is on developing positive behavior, listening and following instructions, body awareness, and foundational movement skills, while nurturing respect, discipline, and teamwork. Through age-appropriate activities and guided instruction, this program aims to help children become comfortable on the mat, learn to cooperate with partners, and build the confidence needed to transition into our regular kids' program.
Team Training (Sat, Sun: 12pm-2pm)
Team training can be attended by any Testudo member who has grasped the basic curriculum or has received permission from Ervin. We create multiple five-minute match simulations between pairs. Members can go between gi and no-gi during this time. These sessions build up practitioners' cardiovascular endurance and overall strategy. ​