Most adults who come to Portal for the first time have never trained a martial art. Plenty haven’t been near a gym in years. That’s how a lot of our members started, and it’s the reason we run a Fundamentals program for adults.
Your first class is free. We lend you a uniform, and a coach looks after you from the moment you walk in.
Do I need to be fit to start jiu jitsu?
No. Training is what gets you fit, so there’s no need to get in shape first. You’ll work hard in Fundamentals, but you can stop for a breather whenever you need one, and the coaches pitch each class at a level beginners can manage.
Quite a few of our adult members started after watching their kids train. They sat on the side for a few weeks, then decided to have a go themselves.
What happens in my first free class at Portal?
Book at portalbrazilianjiujitsu.com/trial or call 0405 821 733, then come in a few minutes early. From there:
- We lend you a gi or rashguard, so you don’t need to buy anything yet.
- Someone shows you around the school and introduces you to your coach.
- Your coach takes you through each technique and pairs you with a training partner who knows how to look after a beginner.
- Stay back after class if you have questions.
Nobody expects you to get it right the first time. Every black belt at Portal had a first class too.
What is the Fundamentals program?
Fundamentals is Portal’s beginner program for adults aged 16 and over. It runs on a 9-month cycle, and the topic changes every week or two. That means you can start in any week of the year and still pick up the basics.
Our coaches explain why a technique works as well as how to do it. Once you understand the idea behind a movement, it sticks. That’s a big part of why we call Portal a school. There’s a set curriculum and belt testing, so you always know what you’re working on.
Is jiu jitsu safe for beginners?
Yes, with good coaching. There are no punches or kicks in jiu jitsu, and a coach runs every class. Our mats sit on a sub-floor that absorbs impact, which is easier on your joints when you fall.
If a hold gets uncomfortable, you tap your partner and they let go straight away. You set the pace. We keep an ego-free room at Portal, and the coaches make sure it stays that way.
Who teaches the adult classes at Portal?
Professor David Moreira Soares founded Portal and is our head coach. He’s a 4th degree black belt with more than 30 years in jiu jitsu. He’s a Brazilian, South American and Australian champion, and has reached the World Championship final twice.
David built the Fundamentals curriculum, so whoever is on the mat that day, you’re learning his way of teaching.
What should I bring to my first jiu jitsu class?
A water bottle and a pair of thongs. You train barefoot, but you’ll need something on your feet off the mat. Bring a mouthguard if you have one.
We lend you the uniform for your trial. Members wear the official Portal gi or rashguard, which you can buy or rent at the school.
How often should a beginner train?
Two or three classes a week is a good place to start. You’ll remember more from one class to the next, and your body gets used to it without being too sore. Fundamentals runs at lunchtime and in the evening, and you’ll find the exact times on our timetable.
How much does adult jiu jitsu cost in Ballina?
Unlimited adult training at Portal is $62 a week and covers the full timetable. There’s no lock-in contract, joining fee or cancellation fee. If you train with your kids, family plans start at $95 a week for two people.
Why do adults stay at Portal?
Mostly the people. Members grab a coffee together after class, and the school heads off on camping weekends a few times a year. One member, James, put it well in his review: “Came to learn Jiu Jitsu, stayed for the community.”
Common questions
Can I start jiu jitsu in my 40s or 50s?
Yes. Adults of all ages start at Portal. Fundamentals is built so you learn step by step, and you can take a break whenever you need one.
Do I need a gi for my first class?
No. We lend you a gi or rashguard for your free trial.
Is there a contract?
No. There’s no lock-in contract, joining fee or cancellation fee.
Where is Portal Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
27 Cessna Cres, Ballina NSW. Our members come from Ballina, Lennox Head, Alstonville and across the Northern Rivers.
Book your free trial class
Your first adult class at Portal Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Ballina is free. Book at portalbrazilianjiujitsu.com/trial or call 0405 821 733, and we’ll see you on the mat.
