FAQ

ATTENDING CLASSES

I am a member; do I need to sign up for classes in advance?

  • Members are not required to pre-register for classes; they can just show up for the class they want to take.

  • If you haven’t yet done so, make sure download the Gymdesk app for your smartphone (iOS; Android). This is how you will check in to class & see the latest updates from the academy.

If I am a member from another martial arts school, how can I train at at RGES?

  • For more information for training at RGES as a visitor, please email membership@renzogracieeastside.com. Please include your contact info, any specific dates/classes you’re hoping to attend, where you currently train, and your level of experience. We look forward to welcoming you at RGES!

What are classes like?

  • At RGES we have a goal of each class promoting skill and knowledge acquisition, as well as providing a fun workout and opportunity to develop relationships with your classmates.

  • Every class focuses on underlying concepts (i.e. the “why” behind a move), effective techniques (i.e. the “what” of a move), and opportunities to practice moves and sequences.

  • BJJ classes include “rolling” or live training”, which means practicing with resistance and/or sparring.

  • While our 6:30 AM BJJ classes are specifically noted as “fundamentals”, every class is open to all students, from complete novices to longtime players. 

    • Instructors can provide simplified versions of the demonstrated techniques and positional training opportunities during live rounds, allowing students to work on targeted fundamental skills with resistance. 

    • As part of our welcoming & supportive environment, senior students also happily make themselves available to answer questions and assist with techniques. 

  • Muay Thai classes feature pad- and partner-work to develop skills by developing a sequence over the week’s classes.

  • Kids classes foster the development of not just martial arts skills, but also key life skills such as following directions, taking turns, and helping others.

What if I can’t come to class on time or if I need to leave early?

  • Our priority is for students to train as much BJJ as they can, which might mean that they need to arrive late or leave early. We ask that students arriving late first connect with the instructor before jumping into the class and students who need to leave early inform the instructor when they get to class.

  • For our Muay Thai classes, we require students to arrive ready for the start of the class and we ask them to stay for the duration of class. For the days that BJJ and Muay Thai overlap, students doing both classes should leave the BJJ class in time for them to start Muay Thai punctually.

Do you have space for me to park my bike/scooter/stroller?

  • Unfortunately we don’t have space to accommodate the storage of bikes, scooters, strollers, or other large items.

Do you allow people to observe classes?

  • Because safety is a top priority, we cannot guarantee that people can observe a class unless they’ve made arrangements in advance with the academy. People taking an Intro to BJJ class may plan on observing any of the classes that same evening.

  • Caretakers of children attending classes should be prepared to drop their student off, wait at a nearby location, and return to pick up the student.

GEAR & WHAT TO BRING

What should I wear to class?

  • BJJ GI class: You will need a gi and a belt. You’re welcome to bring your own — we do not have restrictions about gi colors or insignias from different academies. If you need to purchase a gi, we will offer them for sale online here and at the academy. We will have white belts available at the academy for new students. Rashguards or t-shirts are required under the gi.

  • BJJ NOGI class: You’re welcome to wear rashguards and shorts and/or spats (i.e. BJJ leggings). If you don’t have that BJJ-specific gear, you can train in an athletic/compression shirt and pocketless shorts/leggings. Make sure that there are no buttons, clasps, or zippers on any clothing.

  • Muay Thai (kickboxing): Clothing that is appropriate for nogi class is also appropriate for Muay Thai. Muay Thai shorts are welcome but are not required. You will need a pair of boxing gloves and we highly recommend utilizing wraps. We have a very limited supply of gloves available for students’ first class only.

  • Out of hygiene considerations, please wear fresh apparel to each class (i.e. change your clothes between classes). Please also avoid wearing your training gear anywhere except on the mats, which means that you shouldn’t walk over to the academy in your gi pants even if it’s just for a few blocks.

What else might I need for class?

  • While not mandatory for all classes, a mouthguard is recommended.

  • If you use knee sleeves, finger tape, or other supportive gear for your joints, be sure to bring those.

  • Bring a towel if you plan on showering at the academy; we will have soap, shampoo, and conditioner available.

  • Bring a suitable bag for your gear post-training. We currently do not offer laundry service.

  • Out of consideration for your and your partners’ safety, be sure to keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed and remove all jewelry (or tape over anything that cannot be removed).

  • You’re welcome to bring a notebook or tablet on the mats during class for note-taking.

What do you have available to rent or purchase at the academy?

  • Gis, rashguards, and t-shirts are all available for purchase. We also sell hand wraps and a limited number of boxing gloves. All our products will be available both at the academy and online.

  • Nogi kits are available for purchase. You can order online through your profile on the Gymdesk app by clicking SHOP in the menu. If they haven’t yet done so, members should download the Gymdesk app for their smartphone (iOS; Android).

  • Loaner gloves for kickboxing are only available for students’ first class. For hygienic reasons, we do not offer them for rent.