Question 1

Can beginners join?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Our programs are designed for everyone, from complete beginners to advanced practitioners. Come as you are, and we’ll help you grow.

Question 2

I’m not in shape yet. Should I wait until I am?

Accepted Answer

No — and waiting is the single most common reason people never start. The conditioning is a side effect of training, not a prerequisite for it. Adult Fundamentals is built for day one: you set the pace and rest whenever you need to.

Question 3

How do I book my free class?

Accepted Answer

Use any “Book your free class” button on this site, or just call or text us. We will confirm a day and time that works, and tell you exactly where to park and what to bring.

Question 4

Will I be pressured to sign up on my first visit?

Accepted Answer

No. There is nothing to buy on your first visit and no contract to sign at the door. Train, see how it feels, and talk to us afterwards only if you want to.

Question 5

Can I try a class for free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Your first intro class is on us. Book online, show up in comfortable athletic clothes, and we’ll take care of the rest — including a loaner Gi if your class needs one.

Question 6

How young can my child start?

Accepted Answer

Our Cubs program starts at age 3. It is built around natural movement — crawling, tumbling, and falling safely — in a structured, genuinely fun environment. Cubs classes run 30 minutes, which is about as long as a four-year-old can genuinely focus.

Question 7

What is the difference between Gi and No-Gi?

Accepted Answer

The Gi is the traditional uniform, and training in it lets you grip cloth — which rewards control and patience. No-Gi is rash guard and shorts, which makes everything faster and more slippery. We run both every week because they make each other better.

Question 8

Is Jiu Jitsu just about fighting?

Accepted Answer

No. It focuses on self-defense, discipline, confidence, and personal growth. Most of what students take away from the mat shows up everywhere else in their lives — usually at school or work long before it ever shows up in a confrontation.

Question 9

Do I have to compete?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. Competing is entirely optional and most of our students never enter a tournament. For those who want it, the Competition Team trains extra sessions and travels the NAGA, IBJJF, and AGF circuits.

Question 10

How often should I train?

Accepted Answer

Twice a week is enough to make steady progress. Three or more and it starts moving quickly. Memberships are unlimited, so come as often as your week allows — consistency beats intensity every time.

Question 11

What should I wear to my first class?

Accepted Answer

A Dri-fit T-shirt or rash guard and athletic shorts or leggings — ideally without zippers, buttons, or pockets, since those catch during training. Bring a water bottle and a pair of sandals for walking off the mats.

Question 12

Do I need to buy a Gi before I start?

Accepted Answer

No. We keep clean loaner Gis at the academy for your trial, and we will show you how to tie the belt. Buy your own once you know you are staying.

Question 13

Why sandals?

Accepted Answer

We train barefoot on the mats but wear shoes any time we step off them. It is the single biggest thing that keeps a training floor clean, and every academy worth training at is strict about it.

Question 14

Who leads the classes?

Accepted Answer

Our classes are led by Professor Jason Montoya, a 2nd-degree black belt under Bruno Bastos and a black belt in Judo. He has been teaching students of all levels since 2008, and he designs the curriculum the whole academy follows.

Question 15

Who founded the academy?

Accepted Answer

Second Grip was founded by Johnny Mendoza and David Vasquez in December 2022, originally as Evo BJJ. Their vision was to create a welcoming community for everyone — a place where intimidation is replaced by invitation.

Question 16

Are there women at the academy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We have a strong, established group of women on our mats and we specifically encourage more. If you would rather come in with a friend for your first class, that is common and completely welcome.

Question 17

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

We’re at 801 N. 8th St., Carlsbad, NM 88220. We proudly serve Carlsbad, Artesia, Hobbs, Roswell, and the surrounding Eddy County area.

Question 18

What’s the best way to contact the gym?

Accepted Answer

Call or text us, send an email, or just drop by the gym during any of our classes. We’re happy to show you around — no appointment needed.

Everything youwanted to ask.

Getting started

Classes & programs

What to bring

The academy

What to bring.

Comfortable athletic wear

A water bottle

Sandals or flip-flops

A positive attitude

Still have a question?Just ask us.