Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before your first class at Rio Bravo.
How much do classes cost at Rio Bravo Jiu-Jitsu Club?
Your first two classes are free. For membership options after that, call (661) 303-1353 or ask a coach when you visit.
Do I need experience to start jiu-jitsu?
No. Every class starts with fundamentals, Gi fundamentals meets Thursday at 7:30 PM, and coaches pair new students with training partners who help them learn. Most members started as complete beginners.
What should I wear to my first class?
Wear athletic clothes without zippers or pockets, like shorts or sweatpants and a T-shirt or rash guard. Take off jewelry, trim your nails and bring water and sandals for walking off the mat. You don’t need a gi for your first visit.
What ages does Rio Bravo teach?
Little ones (ages 3–6) train on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 4:50 PM in 8-week sessions. Kids Gi classes run on weekday afternoons and Saturday at 11 AM, and adult classes run in the evenings and Saturday at noon. Call to find the right class for teens.
Does Rio Bravo offer MMA and wrestling?
Yes. MMA runs as Smash Lab MMA, home of the Rio Bravo Fight Team, coached by Enrique Guillen. It meets Thursday at 5:30 PM, Saturday at 9 AM and Sunday at 9 AM in the gym’s striking area. Wrestling meets Wednesday at 7:30 PM.
Is there a women’s jiu-jitsu class?
Yes. Women’s Gi runs on Wednesdays from 6 to 7:30 PM.
Where is Rio Bravo Jiu-Jitsu Club?
The gym is at 6700 Niles St, Suite 120, Bakersfield, CA 93306, in northeast Bakersfield.
What are the class hours?
Classes run seven days a week. Weekday classes start in the afternoon, between 4 and 5:30 PM, and run into the evening. Saturday classes start at 9 AM, and Sunday has MMA at 9 AM and open mat at 10 AM. The schedule page lists every class.
Is Rio Bravo affiliated with a jiu-jitsu team?
Yes. Rio Bravo is a TruJitsu affiliate academy led by Professors Rocky Brown and Freddy Madera.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes. Private lessons with a professor or coach are available by appointment.
Can parents watch kids class?
Yes. The lobby has couches and a view of the mats, so parents can watch class.
Do kids have to compete?
No. Competing is optional. Kids who want to compete can join the youth competition team, which travels to JJWL and Dream BJJ tournaments in California.
Is there an open mat?
Yes. Open mat is Sunday at 10 AM.
Is there a beginner class?
Yes. Gi fundamentals meets Thursday at 7:30 PM, and every class starts with fundamentals, so beginners are welcome at any adult class.
Try 2 free classes
No experience or gear needed. Call or send your info and we’ll set up your first visit.