These are some frequently asked questions about Gracie Swindon and what you need to know.
First Class
WHICH CLASS SHOULD I TRY OUT FIRST?
If you are new to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you must first attend an intro class (free of charge). The instructor will take you through the history and customs of our sport, as well as show you some self defence and groundwork. If you already have experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you may attend a trial class with our students.
IT'S MY FIRST TIME AT THE SCHOOL. WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE BEFORE MY CLASS?
Try to arrive 15-20 mins before so you have time to let your teacher know if you have any injuries, sign the waiver form and familiarise yourself with the Gracie Swindon Team and the gym.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR MY INTRO CLASS?
For your intro class you should wear some comfortable clothes and some flip flops or sliders so your feet are covered between the changing rooms and the mats.
CAN I BORROW A GI?
After your intro class, you may be invited to join a trial class. We will do our best to lend you a clean gi that fits well. Please note that you must wear a t shirt underneath your gi.
WHAT WILL I LEARN IN MY FIRST CLASS?
In your first class you will be taught some basic movements in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and then you will practice these moves with a partner. The instructors will keep a close eye on you as well as ensuring that you are partnered with someone who is experienced. We are proud of our friendly atmosphere at the academy and make sure that everyone feels welcome.
HOW OLD DO I HAVE TO BE TO JOIN ADULT CLASSES?
16 years of age. We may allow from 15 years of age but parent or guardian permission is required. Please contact the Gracie Swindon Team for advice.
Class Guide
I HAVE TO LEAVE EARLY/COMING LATE?
We will do our best to accommodate late arrivals, however if it is your first class, it is important that you arrive 20 minutes before the class. This allows us to show you around the academy and introduce you to the instructor.
DO I HAVE TO WASH MY GI AFTER EVERY CLASS?
Yes, this is very important. You and your training partners are likely to be very sweaty after training – no one likes a smelly gi. To protect the fabric of your gi, do not wash it higher than 40 degrees and keep it away from the tumble dryer.
DO I NEED TO WEAR FLIP FLOPS OR SLIDERS?
Yes, you must keep your feet covered between the changing rooms and the mats – this protects your feet and the hygiene of the academy (shoes are also fine).
WHERE CAN I BUY A GI?
At the academy! We have our own shop including gis, rash guards, shorts, backpacks and t shirts. We also sell water and coconut water at the front desk.
Membership
WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT METHORDS FOR THE MONTHLY MEMBERSHIPS?
For our monthly membership, we will take card details from you to be used for your membership. These are stored in the system so that if you would like to purchase anything at the academy, we can put it straight through for you.
DOES THE MEMBERSHIP START ON THE DAY I SIGN UP?
Yes, your first payment is taken directly that day as a card payment. Then each month is automatically taken each month via an autopay card subscription.
WHEN WILL THE PAYMENT COME OUT?
This depends on the date that you signed up. Payments come out the same date each month, from the date you signed up. If want your payment to come out on a specific date, please email jiujitsu@gracieswindon.com
IS THERE AN AMOUNT OF TIME I AM TIED TO THE MEMBERSHIP?
It is a no contract monthly rolling payment, until cancelled.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?
We require a minimum 1 months’ notice of cancellation and cancellation notice should be given in-line with your direct debit schedule. Should you cancel in-between payments, the subsequent payment will be the last one. The date on your cancellation email marks the start of your 1 month notice period.
HOW DO I GIVE NOTICE OF CANCELLATION?
Via email to jiujitsu@gracieswindon.com
CAN I FREEZE A MEMBERSHIP?
After your first month you can notify us if you need to freeze your membership. You can freeze your membership for a maximum of 3 months at a time. If required longer, memberships will need to be cancelled.
HOW MUCH NOTICE DO I NEED TO GIVE BEFORE FREEZING?
You must to notify us at least 7 working days before your next payment is due.
ONCE I UNFREEZE, AM I TIED IN AGAIN FOR A PARTICULAR LENGTH OF TIME?
Yes, you must come back for 1 month before you can freeze again.
I STARTED A MEMBERSHIP WITH YOU BUT I HAVE NOT CAME AS OFTEN AS I HOPED TO THE SCHOOL, CAN I CANCEL MY MEMBERSHIP AND GET MY MONEY BACK?
No, memberships are not refundable.
MY PAYMENT IS TAKEN BY CARD SUBSCRIPTION, IS THIS SAFE?
Yes, we use a software and payment system called Stripe, who are one of the leading providers. Stripe is a PCI Compliant Level 1 Service Provider. Level 1 Payment Card Industry (PCI) compliance means that Stripe meets the credit card industry’s highest security standard, so you can rest assured your data is safe. Part of being compliant includes encrypting our clients’ card numbers and showing only partial card information in our software. Stripe also encrypts your billing information, is backed up daily and securely stored offsite. Each year Mindbody must go through a rigorous audit to ensure that they maintain those high standards.
Facilities And Logistics
HELP! I CANT FIND THE SCHOOL?
Our address is 19-21 Newport Street SN1 3DX, we are located on the road opposite the petrol station across from the co-op
CAN YOU PARK NEARBY?
Yes, the School has a small carpark for members. Otherwise before 9am and after 5pm the surrounding streets are free to park in.
IS THERE A PLACE TO LEAVE MY BIKE?
Yes, we have bike facilities outside, in front of our main doors.
CAN I SHOWER AT THE SCHOOL
Yes, we have full shower and changing facilities.
ARE THERE REFRESHMENTS AT THE SCHOOL?
Yes, we sell water, coffee, etc, Just ask reception to purchase these refreshments