Question 1

Do I need martial arts experience?

Accepted Answer

Nope! We love beginners and will show you everything you need to know. GVMA offers classes for all levels. We are first and foremost a community and do our best to alleviate any unnecessary barriers between you and this lifelong practice. We are here to help you succeed and achieve your goals!

Question 2

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Email us [gallatinvalleymma@gmail.com](gallatinvalleymma@gmail.com) and we will find a time for your intro lesson. After your intro lesson, you'll be ready to succeed in our group classes all by yourself.

You don't need any fancy equipment day 1. Wear something you can move in and bring water. For No-Gi jiu-jitsu, a rash guard with long sleeves is a good idea.

Question 3

​What kind of investment am I looking at?

Accepted Answer

We would be happy to go over all the membership options when you come in for your trial class -- which is free! After your introductory lesson, we can discuss the nitty gritty. First, let's make sure the community feels like good fit for you.

We currently offer an all-inclusive Unlimited Membership and a 10 class Punch card. With that being said, we never want price to be the reason you don't train. If you want to train, we want you to train. We have a plethora of discounts and work trade options -- let's chat about it. The biggest investment we are looking for is in our community.

Question 4

​I am out of shape…should I improve my conditioning before taking classes?

Accepted Answer

Would you eat before going out to have dinner in a restaurant? Let us help get you in shape! Our foundation classes are introductory-level and geared towards students who have little to no experience or athletic background. Each class is specifically designed to help increase your stamina, strength, and flexibility. You will progress at your own pace and comfort level. No matter what your current level of fitness is rest assured you are able to participate.

Question 5

Is GVMA mostly men?

Accepted Answer

Nope! There is no one way to be a martial artist. Our classes are for everyone regardless of identity or experience, as all belong on the mat. GVMA is proud to have a diverse set of instructors which encourages a diverse student body. In addition to a weekly women-only kickboxing class and monthly women's Gi seminar, we also offer women’s self-defense seminars several times a year. We are proud to be slowly shifting the culture, one student at a time.  Martial arts belong to everyone.

Question 6

​Do all your classes have contact?

Accepted Answer

No, GVMA offers both non-contact and contact classes.  Our non-contact classes focus on building a solid foundation of skills, getting a good workout and learning an effective self-defense. You can train like a fighter without the fight. Our contact classes are offered separately for people who want to participate in various levels of sparring.

Question 7

Do I have to compete?

Accepted Answer

No, GVMA offers separate classes for students who want to participate in competitions.

Question 8

What kind of equipment will I need to buy if I join? Where can I purchase the equipment?

Accepted Answer

If you decide to join the equipment required will vary depending on what type of training you are doing. Basic requirements are listed below:
​
Adult Kickboxing Level 1: You will need handwraps and we recommend 14oz boxing gloves for women and 18oz boxing gloves for men. However, if you have another weight boxing glove (10 or 12 ozs) we will allow you to use them for this class.   
​
Adult Kickboxing Level 2: In addition to the correct weighted gloves, you will need a mouth piece, groin protector, and shin guards.
​
No-Gi BJJ: Rashguard, mouth piece, groin protector (ear guards are optional for adults).
​
Gi BJJ: Gi, mouth piece, groin protector (ear guards are optional for adults).
​
Competition Team: MMA gloves and headgear.
 
GVMA has most of the required equipment you will need available in our pro-shop, including boxing gloves, handwraps, and shinguards. We can help you find the best place either locally or online to purchase a mouth guard, groin protector, and ear guards.

Question 9

​Do you offer private lessons?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer private lessons in boxing, Muay Thai kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling, and self-defense.  Private lessons are a great way to progress faster, work in a private setting, get one-on-one attention, focus on specific areas for improvement, increase your stamina, or prepare for an upcoming competition. Private lessons are available 6 days a week at various times. If you have a nontraditional schedule private lessons are an excellent way to stay consistent. Private lessons are offered in packages of 1 class, 2 classes, 5 classes or 10 classes. Small group instruction is also available.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS