Question 1

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Book the $14 intro online or call (631) 243-3966. You get 14 days of classes plus a free Makoto T-shirt, and we'll help you pick the right class for your age and goals.

Question 2

What's included in the $14 intro?

Accepted Answer

14 days of classes in your program and a free Makoto T-shirt. It's built so you (or your child) can find out if it's the right fit before committing to anything.

Question 3

What if it's not the right fit?

Accepted Answer

Every intro comes with our 30-day money-back guarantee. If it isn't right for your family, tell us and we'll refund you.

Question 4

Do I need any experience?

Accepted Answer

No. Most of our students walked in as complete beginners. Every class is coached so new students learn the basics safely from day one.

Question 5

What should we wear to the first class?

Accepted Answer

Comfortable workout clothes with no zippers or buttons, and bring a water bottle. Training is barefoot on the mat. We'll take care of the rest.

Question 6

What age can my child start?

Accepted Answer

We have classes for young children, school-age kids, and teens and adults. Call us with your child's age and we'll place them in the right group.

Question 7

Is jiu-jitsu safe for kids?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Classes are supervised by trained instructors, techniques are taught step by step, and partner work is controlled. Safety and respect come first in every class.

Question 8

My child is shy or not athletic. Will they fit in?

Accepted Answer

Those are some of the best reasons to start. Kids progress at their own pace, and confidence grows with every stripe and belt they earn.

Question 9

Does it help with bullying?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Students learn awareness, how to use their voice, and how to stay calm under pressure. Physical self-defense is always taught as a last resort.

Question 10

Can I watch my child's class?

Accepted Answer

Yes, parents are welcome to watch.

Question 11

I'm out of shape. Can I still train?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Drills scale to your level, and you'll build fitness as you learn. Many adults start in exactly the same spot.

Question 12

What do adults learn?

Accepted Answer

Practical self-defense rooted in Goshin Jiu-Jitsu, with influences from Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu, Jeet Kune Do and Arnis.

Question 13

Is it all sparring?

Accepted Answer

No. Most of class is technique, drilling and conditioning. Live rolling is introduced gradually and always supervised.

Question 14

Who teaches at Makoto Jiu Jitsu Centers?

Accepted Answer

Shihan Jerry Minerva, 5th Degree Black Belt, Goshin Jiu-Jitsu, with 39 years of experience, leads the school with a team of instructors he trained himself.

Question 15

What does Makoto mean?

Accepted Answer

Makoto means sincerity. It's the symbol on our logo and the standard we teach by: honest effort, earned rank, no shortcuts.

Question 16

How do belt promotions work?

Accepted Answer

Belts are earned, not handed out on a schedule. Students are promoted when they've shown the skill, effort and character for the next rank.

Question 17

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

770-16 Grand Blvd, Deer Park, NY 11729. We serve families from Deer Park, Bay Shore, Brentwood, West Islip, Dix Hills.

Question 18

What are your hours?

Accepted Answer

Monday–Friday 4:30 PM–8:00 PM, Saturday 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, Sunday closed. Class times vary by program, so call or book your intro and we'll match you to a time that works.

Question 19

How many classes a week should we take?

Accepted Answer

Two classes a week is a great starting point for steady progress. We'll help you find the rhythm that fits your family.

Honest Answers

Getting Started

Kids & Families

Teens & Adults

Belts & Instructors

Schedule & Location

Birthday Parties

Birthday Parties

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