FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
1. I’ve never done this before and I’m intimidated. What kind of environment should I expect?
We offer private 1‑on‑1 sessions—because real learning happens with focused attention. No getting lost in a crowd, no fluff: efficient, practical training that builds strength, confidence, and everyday empowerment.
In your sessions, you get personalized instruction shaped around your goals and experience. We teach how to lower your “victim potential” with better awareness and decision‑making, and how to apply practical situational awareness in your daily life. You’ll develop clear, effective physical skills—how to use your hands, elbows, knees; how to defend against strikes, grabs, and common real‑world encounters.
Every drill is chosen to be usable, repeatable, and directly applicable to your routine. Sessions are progressive and measurable, so you leave each lesson more capable, calmer under pressure, and better prepared to protect yourself and the people you care about.
2. As a woman, I’m concerned about hygiene and privacy. How do you handle this?
100%. We clean our training area and gear every day. You’ve got access to fresh towels, private bathrooms, and everything you need to feel comfortable, safe, and respected—whether you’re coming from work or just woke up from a nap.
3. What should I wear to train?
Go with compression top and bottom as your base layer, and throw on shorts over if you’d like. This combo helps with mobility, sweat control, and staying covered during intense movement. No need to overthink it—just show up clean, ready to move, and we’ll guide you from there.
4. I see the women’s self defense program “Kinetic Grace”—does it “just” teach me how to fight on the ground?
Absolutely not. A common mistake in modern martial arts is teaching women to go straight to the ground. At Gotham Jiu-Jitsu, our philosophy is the opposite: The best ground defense is never ending up on the ground. Our Women’s Self Defense curriculum is rooted in Japanese Jiu Jitsu, which is a comprehensive, scenario-based self-defense system.
While we will give you the tools to survive if you are taken down, our primary goal is to keep you on your feet, mobile, and headed toward the nearest exit.
5. I’m much smaller than the average attacker. Does this actually work for me?
This is exactly why we teach Jiu Jitsu. Unlike "cardio kickboxing," we focus on mechanical leverage. We don’t teach you to "power through" an opponent; we teach you how to use your hips, legs, and their own weight against them. You aren't learning how to fight like a man; you’re learning how a smaller person can neutralize a larger one.
6. How does training here help with my daily confidence and anxiety?
Self-defense is 90% psychological. At Gotham, I’ll train you to stay calm when someone enters your personal space. By practicing high-pressure scenarios in a controlled environment, you "stress-inoculate" your brain. You’ll find that the "creepy" guy on the subway or the aggressive boss at work doesn't rattle you anymore because you know exactly what you’re capable of.
7. I already train somewhere else. Can I still come?
Yes. We don’t care where you’re from—we care about where you’re going. If you’re training at another gym, we’re happy to help you get better, safer, and more confident. No drama, no judgment.
8. My schedule’s all over the place—can I still train?
Yes. We know your calendar’s challenging—between work, travel, and social plans. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling. You can book based on your time, not ours.
9. Can we train at my apartment’s fitness area or office gym?
Totally. If your building or office has a decent space, we’ll bring the training to you. We recommend a good mat (like this one: FlowSpace Flow Mat Core for safety and portability. We can even train outdoors when it’s nice out.)
10. How far do you travel for private training sessions?
I am available for private training sessions within the Tri-State. I can also travel to locations accessible via BLADE helicopter services, such as the Hamptons, Atlantic City, and other destinations served by BLADE (blade.com). Please note that all travel & accommodation costs are the responsibility of the client.
11. Do you offer free lessons?
No free lessons—but when you book your first session, we’ll apply the cost of that session toward your first 10‑pack of lessons if you decide to continue. That way you’re not just sampling—you’re committing to progress and investing in your growth.
12. How much does it cost?
Sessions start at $100 for private lessons, and go up depending on your package and goals. Want to train weekly? Travel often? Need personal protection skills? We’ll build a plan that fits your lifestyle.
13. Do you offer seminars or large group instruction?
Yes. We offer seminars for up to 20 individuals. Please inquire here for more information.