Your questions, answered
A LITTLE CLARITY.
A LOT LESS OVERTHINKING.
What to wear. Where to go. Whether you’re ready. Get the practical details before your first class.
Getting started
Do I need experience?
No experience is required. Everyone starts somewhere. At On Top Jiujitsu, students get on the mats and start participating from day one, regardless of skill level.
Can I start anytime?
Yes. Students can begin at any time. We offer two free trial classes so newcomers can experience our training style and our welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.
Do you offer drop-ins?
Yes. Visitors are welcome to drop in for a class, but are asked to contact the gym first to complete the necessary paperwork and ensure a smooth experience.
What should I bring?
Clean, comfortable workout apparel — gym shorts and a rash guard or t-shirt are ideal. Shorts must be worn over leggings or spats. No zippers, buttons, or metal. Bring a water bottle and an open mind.
Where is the academy located?
On Top Jiujitsu is located inside Forge Athletics at 1900 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34102.
Classes & training
What is no-gi or submission grappling?
On Top trains no-gi, meaning students wear shorts and a rash guard instead of the traditional gi. Students cannot grab each other’s clothing, which encourages dynamic movement and skillful offense.
How is On Top different from other gyms?
We are an academy offering 100% Constraints Led Approach (CLA) style training. All training is live with a resisting partner. We don’t lecture during class — if it’s 60 minutes, our goal is 48 to 54 minutes of active training.
Do you do warm-ups?
Not traditional ones. Classes begin with structured, purposeful training including games and live grappling. The majority of class time is spent engaging with partners in direct tasks.
Can I come late to class?
Life happens. Students are welcome to arrive late or leave early. Just inform the instructors when entering or leaving. We want you training — come when you can.
Does On Top have gi classes?
At this time, On Top Jiujitsu is a no-gi only school.
What to expect
Can I train if I’m sick or injured?
For safety, students with a contagious illness should wait until fully recovered. Injured students are welcome to observe class. Some modifications may be possible — consult the instructor.
Do I need to get in shape first?
No. Training at On Top will improve your fitness and strength naturally. Grappling is an excellent way to build endurance, flexibility, and overall fitness.
Do you have kids classes?
Not yet. Currently all classes are for adults and older teens, but kids classes will be added as the program grows. Coach Nick brings extensive experience working with children. Contact us if you are interested — some exceptions can be made with consideration to size and maturity.
Do you have an open mat?
Not yet. As our program grows, we definitely intend on holding open mats during the week and weekend.
Programs & membership
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes. Private lessons are available with Coach Nick. Speak with him directly before or after class, or reach out by email to arrange a session.
Do you help with competition?
Yes. Coach Nick has extensive competition experience. Students are encouraged to compete if they want to, but there is no pressure. As the program grows, we intend to create a competition team class.
How do memberships work?
Most people start with two free trial classes, taken within one week. From there you can choose a 5 class pack, a Founding Membership with unlimited classes billed every two weeks, a VIP Membership that includes one monthly private lesson, or private lessons on their own. Contact the academy to confirm current rates.
Do you offer membership discounts?
Yes. We offer discounts for first responders, military personnel, and educators.
How do you spell jiujitsu?
Jiujitsu comes from the Japanese words ju jutsu, or gentle art. It can be spelled ju jutsu, jujutsu, jiu jitsu, jiu-jitsu, jujitsu, or jiujutsu. There isn’t a right or wrong way to spell it, just different variations.
YOUR NEXT CHAPTER STARTS HERE
THE HARDEST PART?
WALKING IN.
We’ll take it from there. Try two classes, meet the team,
and find out what you’re capable of.
Two classes within one week. No commitment to join.