Jiu Jitsu Classes in Soldotna: Can a Beginner Just Walk In?

Yes. If you've never done jiu jitsu, you can walk into a class at AK-49 Martial Arts in Soldotna and start that day, and your first class is free. You don't need a gi, any gear or any experience.

A lot of people think about trying jiu jitsu for a long time before they come in. They're worried they won't know what they're doing, or they'll get hurt, or they'll get paired with somebody who goes too hard. That's normal. Here's how it actually goes.

Where Can I Take Jiu Jitsu Classes in Soldotna

We're at 35300 KB Drive, Building C2, behind Save-U-More and right next to Timber Tech.

People come in from Soldotna, Kenai, Sterling, Nikiski and all over the Kenai Peninsula. You can find the class times on our schedule.

Can You Start Jiu Jitsu With No Experience

Yes. Our program is perfect for beginners. A lot of people come in having never done anything like it, and nobody expects you to know anything on day one.

You don't have to be in shape either. Come in and train for a few weeks, and that's what gets you in shape.

Don't worry about making everything perfect. Your first day is supposed to feel new. Nobody's going to judge you.

What Happens in a Beginner Jiu Jitsu Class

Most classes start with a warm up. Then the coach shows you a technique step by step, and you drill it slow with a partner until it starts to make sense.

After that there's usually some live work, called rolling. That's where you try what you learned with a partner who's trying too. Sparring is completely optional, so if you're not ready for it, that's fine.

We teach position before submission. You learn to hold a good spot and get out of a bad one before you worry about finishing anybody.

If you want more on the first few weeks, read Beginner Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Your First Month on the Mat.

Will I Get Hurt Doing Jiu Jitsu

This is the one most people are really asking. There's one rule everybody follows here. When a hold gets uncomfortable, you tap your partner and they let go right away.

New students are paired with patient partners, and nobody asks you to do more than you're ready for. Expect to be sore your first few weeks, mostly in your grip and your core. That's your body getting used to it.

Do I Need a Gi for My First Jiu Jitsu Class

No. Wear comfortable shorts and any t-shirt. If you need equipment for class, we'll provide it for you free of charge.

If you stay in the gi class, you'll want a gi down the road. For No Gi, shorts and a rash guard are all you need. Our guide on what to wear to your first jiu jitsu class has the rest.

What Is the Difference Between Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu

In the gi class you wear the traditional uniform, and you grip the sleeves and the collar. Belts go white, blue, purple, brown and black. You can see more on our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu page.

No Gi is in shorts and a rash guard, and with us it's a hybrid of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and wrestling. It all starts standing up, so you get a lot of hand fighting and takedowns. Here's our No Gi Jiu Jitsu page.

You don't have to pick one. You can train either one, or both.

Are There Jiu Jitsu Classes for Kids in Soldotna

Yes. Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is for kids six and up, through 17, and there's a Kids No Gi class too.

Kids learn posture, base and how to stay calm on their back. The coaches keep it safe and keep it fun.

How Often Should a Beginner Do Jiu Jitsu

Two or three classes a week is a good place to start. That's enough to remember what you learned last time, with a day in between to recover.

Once a week still helps, you'll just get better a little slower. Start with what fits your life and add a class when you can.

How Do I Start Jiu Jitsu at AK-49 Martial Arts

Claim your free class pass, check the schedule, and pick a class that fits your week. Show up in shorts and a t-shirt and tell the coach it's your first time.

There are no long term contracts, just a 30 day notice if you ever need to cancel. We also offer discounts for active military, veterans and public service, so ask us about it.

Coach Seth runs the gym. He holds a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and has cornered fighters at the UFC, Glory Kickboxing, AFC and WBC. You can read more on his coach page.

Bring yourself in, relax and have fun. We'll take it from there.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I start jiu jitsu if I'm out of shape?+

Yes. You don't have to be in shape to start. Come train for a few weeks and you'll feel the difference.

Is jiu jitsu safe for beginners?+

For most people, yes. You tap when a hold gets uncomfortable and your partner lets go. At AK-49 Martial Arts, new students are paired with patient partners and sparring is completely optional.

Is jiu jitsu good for self defense?+

Yes. Jiu jitsu teaches you what to do if you end up on the ground, even with somebody bigger on top of you. You learn it by doing it, over and over, with a partner.

How do I try a jiu jitsu class in Soldotna?+

Claim a free class pass, check the schedule and pick a class. Wear comfortable shorts and any t-shirt. There's no long term contract.