Discover Jiu-Jitsu at Riverdale Martial Arts

BJJ, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and ground fighting techniques.

In contrast to other martial arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu uniquely emphasizes self-regulation, authentic self-defense techniques, and unparalleled confidence-building capabilities.

For Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there's no age limit for adult students; it's never too late to start. However, for children, our classes are typically designed for ages 5 to 15 years old. Whether you're an adult looking to begin your journey or a parent interested in enrolling your child, there's a place for everyone in our BJJ community.

Yes, we offer specialized beginner classes tailored to individuals who are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. These classes provide a supportive environment where newcomers can learn the fundamental techniques, principles, and etiquette of BJJ in a structured and approachable manner. Our experienced instructors focus on building a strong foundation while gradually introducing more advanced concepts as students progress, ensuring a smooth transition into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Absolutely not! Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu welcomes practitioners of all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned athletes. Our classes are designed to cater to individuals with varying levels of experience, ensuring that everyone can learn and progress at their own pace. Whether you're stepping onto the mats for the first time or looking to refine your skills, our instructors are dedicated to providing comprehensive guidance and support throughout your journey in mastering this dynamic martial art.

Find out more about our classes and what to expect in our guide.

We adhere to IBJJF rule sets and guidelines, with all our instructors certified by the Ontario Jiu-Jitsu Association.

At RMA, we currently offer co-ed classes in order to learn together as a community, but women are paired with women in almost all cases.

During the 30-day free trial, no equipment is required as all necessary gear will be provided. Upon registration with a membership, uniforms (Gi’s) and belts are available for purchase at the dojo. Beginner Gi’s, which include the belt, start around $160 for both kids and adults. Our Gi’s are crafted from durable thick pearl weave material, specifically designed for grappling, ensuring longevity for many years of training.

At RMA, we take pride in providing smaller class sizes compared to other gyms, fostering a more personalized learning environment with increased opportunities for one-on-one instruction. Our average class size ranges from 10 to 15 students per session, ensuring each participant receives focused attention and guidance from our experienced instructors.

We follow IBJJF ranking system.

As an adult beginner, you'll commence your journey with a white belt and gradually earn stripes as you advance. A total of four stripes are awarded to signify progress before transitioning to the next belt level.

For adults, the progression continues through belts such as blue, purple, brown, and ultimately, black, each representing increasing levels of skill and expertise in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Similarly, for kids, the ranks typically start with the white belt and then advance through grey, yellow, orange, and green, symbolizing their growth and development within the martial art.

Read more about the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu ranking system

No, competing is entirely optional and not a requirement for promotion. However, the primary advantage of competition lies in learning how to manage stress effectively and gaining valuable experience that closely simulates real-life combat situations.

The benefits of training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) are multifaceted. Firstly, it offers a comprehensive workout that improves cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, and overall physical fitness. Additionally, BJJ teaches valuable self-defense skills, empowering practitioners to protect themselves in real-life situations. Beyond the physical aspects, BJJ fosters mental resilience, discipline, and problem-solving abilities through its intricate techniques and sparring sessions. Moreover, the supportive community aspect of BJJ provides a sense of camaraderie and belonging, contributing to improved social connections and mental well-being. Overall, training in BJJ offers a holistic approach to self-improvement, benefiting both the body and mind.