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Children can start as young as 3. Our programs are divided by age: Apprentice (ages 3-4), Junior (ages 5-8), and Teens (ages 9-13). Each group has age-appropriate curriculum and instructors. What to expect at your child's first class →

No experience is needed. Everyone starts at white belt. Classes are structured so beginners learn alongside experienced students in a safe, supportive environment. Read: Do I need experience? →

Comfortable athletic clothing without zippers or pockets. We provide the Gi (uniform) for your child's trial class. Bring water and a towel. What to expect at your child's first class →

We recommend 2-3 times per week to see consistent progress. Classes run Monday through Saturday so you can find a schedule that works for your family.

Yes! Kids can start competing from age 4 in IBJJF Mighty Mite divisions. Our coaches prepare students for competition at their own pace. Read our kids competition guide →

Kids belts have 5 colors (white, grey, yellow, orange, green), each with 3 variants (solid, white stripe, black stripe) for 15 levels of progression. See the full kids belt system →

Belt promotions at Gracie Laval are based on consistent attendance, technical growth, attitude, and mat time. There are no formal tests or fees. Coach Louis-Philippe evaluates each child's progress individually. Learn about the kids belt system → | IBJJF rules explained →

Tell Coach Louis-Philippe at least 6-8 weeks before the tournament. He'll help prepare your child technically and mentally. You'll need to register on ibjjf.com for IBJJF events. Read the full kids competition guide →

BJJ is one of the safest martial arts for children. Training is supervised, techniques are age-appropriate, and sparring is controlled. Kids learn to tap out (signal to stop) from day one. Our coaches are trained to create a safe, positive training environment.

Your first class is completely free - no commitment, no credit card. Come try it and see if BJJ is right for your child. We'll discuss programs and pricing after the trial. Contact us →

No experience is needed. Everyone starts at white belt. Classes are structured so beginners and experienced students train together safely. Read: Do I need experience? →

Comfortable athletic clothing without zippers or pockets. We provide the Gi (uniform) for your trial class. Bring water and a towel. What to expect at your first class →

Start with 2-3 times per week as your body adapts. For serious progress toward your next belt, aim for 4-5 sessions per week. We offer classes Monday through Saturday. Your first 6 months guide →

No. IBJJF Master divisions start at age 30, and many of our members started in their 40s and 50s. BJJ is built on leverage and technique, not speed or strength. You train at your own pace.

Yes. White belts can compete in IBJJF and local tournaments. Our coaches will help you prepare when you're ready. Read our adult competition guide →

The IBJJF minimum is 2 years at white belt. In practice, it depends on training frequency, consistency, and skill development. Training 3-4 times per week typically puts you on track. See the adult belt system →

Promotions are based on consistent attendance, technical growth, competition experience (optional), and attitude. There are no formal tests or fees for promotions. IBJJF requires minimum time at each belt (2 years at blue, 1.5 at purple, 1 at brown). Coach Louis-Philippe evaluates each student individually. See the full adult belt system → | IBJJF rules explained →

Tell Coach Louis-Philippe at least 6-8 weeks before the event. He'll increase your competition-focused training and help you prepare mentally. You'll register on ibjjf.com for IBJJF events (membership + event registration). White belts can and do compete - it's one of the best ways to accelerate your growth. Read the full adult competition guide →

Many of our students train around injuries and physical limitations. Communicate with Coach Louis-Philippe before class - he'll modify drills and suggest which rolls to sit out. BJJ can be adapted for most situations. If you're recovering, drilling technique without live sparring is always an option.

Your first class is completely free - no commitment. Come experience a class and see if it's right for you. We offer flexible membership plans that we'll discuss after your trial. Contact us →