FAQs
Answers to common questions.

Royce Gracie and Valente Brothers Black Belts. Front row from left to right: Joaquim Valente, Pedro Valente Jr, Pedro Valente Sr, Royce Gracie, Gui Valente. (Tosh Cook back row, third from right)
Why should I consider training at Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Fresno?
Our academy is among the oldest and most respected Jiu-Jitsu schools in the Fresno Area. It is a special place that represents the intersection between a comfortably modern facility and skillful, highly accomplished instructors.
Starting with their first class, our students focus solely on effectively utilizing self-defense techniques, which have been proven effective at the highest levels of the martial arts. We are relentlessly pursuing to master the “basics” of jiu-jitsu, which is highly complex. And a unique feeling of pride accompanies the purpose of “civilizing the mind, but making savage the body.”
​
How do I contact someone with questions?
We ditched the telephone and now operate completely via e-mail, so please contact us at info@graciefresno.com. You can usually expect a quick response during the business day. You can also message us through our website.
​
Can I observe a class before purchasing an intro package?
Visitors are always welcome to observe any classes on the schedule as long as it is respectful.
​
Can parents and other spectators take pictures of a class that is in session?
Yes, however, video recording is not allowed. Please always respect the privacy of the other students, especially when it comes to social media. Not everyone is happy to have their training session posted on the internet, and this statement is especially true regarding minors.
​
How do I add other family members to my app account?
As our academy has always been a family environment, we know many of you are enrolling multiple family members or children. To avoid having multiple logins for each child, please see the article on how to make your account a “Family Account.” The process is simple and takes two minutes to complete by following this article.
​
Why do you only allow white gis?
Practicing in a white kimono is a part of our discipline to train in the art of Jiu-Jitsu as practiced by Grandmaster Helio Gracie and dating back to the original academy in Brazil. It visually represents our commitment to the “old-school of jiu-jitsu,” which is increasingly uncommon. And just as important, a white gi makes it easier to identify dirty or deficient uniforms.
​
How often should I wash my gi?
Your gi should be washed after every class, and avoid over-drying it to prevent shrinkage. If you plan on training several times a week, purchasing a couple of extra gis might be wise. You can buy an additional gi or other officially licensed Royce Gracie gear directly from Fuji.
How should I prepare for my first class?
Nails should be trimmed, and long hair should be kept up. As jiu-jitsu training requires physical exertion, avoid heavy meals or excessive fluids immediately before class. However, it is always intelligent to drink plenty of water on days you will train and plan the proper nutrition accordingly.
​
What is a typical Jiu-Jitsu class like?
Every class starts with warm-up exercises to engage the muscles in the physical motions used during jiu-jitsu training. Properly warming up fine tunes the motor skills frequently utilized in performing techniques in class and also reduces the chance of injury by stretching the joints and flowing blood to the muscles.
After warm-ups, we practice the specific elements of fighting: striking techniques, standing defensive techniques, throws, ground fighting, and philosophy. These functional areas are known as the five elements of Jiu-Jitsu. Adults should always bring their boxing gloves to class.
​
Do you allow visitors or drop-in students?
We do not offer a day rate for drop-in classes. However, visitors from out of town who train at a reputable Jiu-Jitsu school are always welcome to share our mats for a class. Please provide advanced notice to info@graciefresno.com.
​
What are the general rules and guidelines?
-
If you are sick, please do not train out of respect for your teammates.
-
Fingernails and toenails must be kept trimmed.
-
Please remove metal jewelry, rings, or watches for safety during training.
-
Shoes must be worn in the restroom, and no shoes on the mat. (Wrestling shoes that are not worn off the mat are allowed.)
-
Always wash and completely dry your gi before class.
-
No food in the academy. Drinks with a lid only.
-
As our academy is family-friendly, please avoid profanity.
-
Please notify the instructor immediately if something hurts or you feel unwell.
-
Let’s keep our academy as one of the precious few places we can avoid politics and political discussions in these turbulent times.
​
Other questions?
Contact us anytime: Contact | Royce Gracie Jiu-Jitsu of Fresno | United States (graciefresno.com)
​