Nope! Most people who join our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, or Self-defense classes in Asheville are total beginners. You’ll learn everything step-by-step, and our coaches and members will help you feel comfortable right away.

Do I need any experience to start training BJJ, Kickboxing or Self Defense?

What should I wear to my first class at Underdog?

For your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Self-Defense class, wear athletic clothes and something that covers your shoulders to prevent mat burn (it’s not much fun). For Kickboxing, just bring water, and wear something you can move and sweat in. We have loaner gear for your first two weeks if you need it. You’ll be barefoot on the mat, so shoes that you can slip on and off (like flip-flops) are perfect.

 Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu good for self-defense?

Absolutely! BJJ teaches you how to stay calm, control an opponent, and escape safely — even against someone bigger or stronger. It’s one of the most proven self-defense systems out there. Studies suggest that between 61% and 90% of real altercations end up on the ground — and that’s where Jiu-Jitsu shines.

What’s the difference between the Kickboxing and the Heavy Bag HIIT classes?

Heavy Bag HIIT is a fitness class — lots of movement, no contact, heart rate pumping. Our Kickboxing program focuses on real striking techniques, tactics, and form — we’ll hone in on the details while still working up sweat. Doing both will have you ready for whatever life throws at you.

What’s a kickboxing class like? Will I have to spar on my first day?

Kickboxing classes start with a warm-up, then we hit combinations, bag work, and conditioning. You’ll learn real striking techniques and probably sweat more than you expected (in a good way). This is the class where we hone in on your technique and form. Don’t worry – it’s not Fight Club – We won’t make you fight your first night, and you’re definitely allowed to talk about it.

Is training safe? Will I get injured? Do I have to compete?

Safety is our top priority. While we are training full contact Martial Arts and Combat Sports, our coaches strive to keep practitioners controlled, precise and intentional with their movements. If you’re just surviving a training session, you’re not really training. At Underdog, our goal is to get better, not just beat everyone up and go home. After all, if your training partners aren’t getting better, you aren’t getting better. While we encourage students to compete, we will never pressure you into competing, or let someone compete who isn’t ready.

What age can kids start training? If we’re both signed up, can we train together?

Most kids start around 5 or 6 years old. Our Kids BJJ and Kickboxing classes focus on confidence, focus, and discipline — while keeping things fun. This goes for everyone, but especially the kiddos, the more fun you’re having while training, the more you’ll be here and the more you’ll learn. Around 12, we start blending them into our adult classes, based on size, ability to participate in class and individual assessments. If you have a child over 12 and want to train along side them, you’re more than welcome to partner with them during class. If your child is still under 12, we encourage you to train together during an open mat time.

Do I have to spar or roll right away?

care more about your growth than toughness — you can test that when you decide to compete. While there are Live Rolling and Sparring Classes on the schedule, beginners should stick to the fundamentals classes until their Coaches graduate them to the more intense classes. That way when you get to the No-Gi Live Rolling classes or the Kickboxing Sparring class, you’ve got good habits already ingrained and are prepared for productive training

Nope. You’ll start with drills and technique first. When you’re ready, you can ease into light rolling (for BJJ) or controlled sparring (for kickboxing). We

The quick answer is that 2-3 times a week is perfect when you’re starting out. Consistency beats intensity — showing up regularly is how you’ll see real progress in your BJJ, Kickboxing, and Self-Defense training. Now, if a member intends to compete we up the training frequency and add strength and conditioning while balancing the rest of your life, nutrition and recovery. At the end of the day, its your training and you gotta do what’s right for you.

Is this good for women?

Definitely! BJJ and Kickboxing are both great for empowering and practical for women, whatever your motivations for training are. Whether your goals include competition, self-defense, fitness, or just looking for a community, you’re welcome here. You’ll learn how to stay calm, give yourself the best chance of escaping danger, and move with confidence — all in a supportive, judgment-free space

How long does it take to see progress in BJJ, Kickboxing, or any of our programs?

You’ll feel a difference in your fitness and confidence within a few weeks. Skill-wise, it’s a lifelong journey — but that’s part of what makes martial arts rewarding. Keep in mind, your training partners are improving too, which can make it harder to notice your progress at first. Trust us — your coaches will see it even if you don’t.

What’s the difference between Gi Jiu Jitsu and No-Gi Jiu Jitsu? Do I have to do both to get ranked?

Gi Jiu-Jitsu uses the traditional uniform for grips and control — it’s typically slower and more technical, while No-Gi is done in rash guards and shorts or leggings, focusing more on movement, timing, and body control. Both are awesome, and we encourage you to do both, but it’s not required. You don’t have to train both to get ranked by us, but more mat time is more mat time. We’re excited to offer both Gi and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes in Asheville.

What are the main benefits of training here?

You’ll laugh, sweat, and learn real skills. You’ll get stronger, more confident, and more capable. You’ll train pressure tested Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Self-Defense — all while joining a community of supportive Asheville badasses.

Plus, we have dogs.

Do I need any gear to start?

Just bring comfortable clothes and a good attitude. We’ll help you with any gear you need. After two weeks, you’ll want your own gear:

• For kickboxing: 16 oz gloves, shin guards, and a mouthpiece.

• For BJJ: a rashguard, shorts or leggings, or a Gi, and a mouthpiece