New to Jiu Jitsu?

Beginners are always welcome at Ohm

Ohm Jiu Jitsu is one of the most beginner-friendly gyms in Birmingham. We know stepping into a martial arts gym can be intimidating, but it's never easier than at Ohm. Come by any weekday a few minutes before beginner class at 5:30pm, and Russell or DJ will greet you and walk you through the basics.

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Two women practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu on a mat at Ohm Jiu Jitsu, one applying a chokehold during training.

Starting is easy and commitment-free

We offer a free training session, and memberships renew every two weeks — you're never locked into a long-term commitment.

  1. Sign up for a free trial
  2. Come to the gym, meet us, and try it out
  3. Discover a workout you love
  • Wear your own workout gear — no special clothing required, and you don't need to buy our gear
  • Start where you are — join in or step out any time you like
  • Feel free to observe — wondering if you'll like jiu jitsu? Come watch a class!

An 8-week beginner program you can start any time

Our beginner program walks you through all the basics in eight weeks — and it's designed with no beginning or end, so you can jump in whenever you'd like. Beginner classes run Monday through Thursday at 5:30pm, and beginners are welcome to stay for the 6:00pm all-levels class at no extra charge.

You don't need to be in shape to start. Jiu jitsu is how you get in shape. Members of all ages, sizes, and fitness levels train at Ohm, and our instructors meet you exactly where you are.

Common Questions

Everything first-timers ask us

What should I expect at my first class at Ohm Jiu Jitsu?

When you walk in, sign in at the iPad to your left. DJ or Russell will greet you and walk you through the basics. Take your shoes off before walking on the mats. We have benches, cubbies, bathrooms, showers, and a water refill station. We'll email you a complete beginner guide when you sign up for a free trial.

What should I wear to jiu jitsu class?

Wear your own workout clothes — tight-fitting clothing like board shorts, yoga pants, or rashguards works best. No shoes on the mats, so bring flip flops or slides. Bring a water bottle and a towel if you want to shower after class.

Do I have to buy special gear to train at Ohm?

No. Ohm practices no-gi jiu jitsu, which means you don't need to buy a traditional gi or any uniform. Wear your own workout clothes when starting out. If you join, most people eventually buy a rashguard and spats, but we never force you to buy our gear.

Can I start jiu jitsu at any time?

Yes. Ohm runs an eight-week beginner program designed so you can start at any point — there's no beginning or end. Jump in whenever you'd like, and eight weeks later you'll have covered all the basics.

How do I know if I'm a beginner?

If you've trained before but it's been a while, you can come to beginner classes at 5:30pm or regular classes at 6:00pm. Beginners can also stay for the 6:00 all-levels class at no extra charge.

I signed up for a trial and didn't use it. Can I still come?

Yes — our free trials don't expire. If you don't have your sign-in information anymore, reach out through our contact form or Instagram and we'll get you set up.

How do you pronounce 'Ohm'?

'Ohm' rhymes with 'home.' Our name comes from the electrical term that measures resistance — jiu jitsu is a sport based on resistance. Our skull logo has lightning bolt eyes, and we call our members the Omega Team.

Does Ohm Jiu Jitsu have female members?

Yes — several women train at Ohm, and a few of our founding members are female black belts, so you'll have women at every level to learn from and train with.

I have an injury — can I still train?

It depends on the injury; talk to your doctor first. You can ask DJ and Russell for advice about training with certain injuries. If you get injured while training, it's easy to freeze your account until you're back.

More questions? See the full FAQ →

What Members Say

Real reviews from the Omega Team

“Ohm is a cool gym. It’s in a great location, it’s clean, and well appointed. Everyone is friendly, welcoming, and open to both new members and experienced grapplers. I’ve trained with both of the coaches for a long time. I can honestly say that they care very much about the sport, the students, and love teaching.”

— John Baker

“Amazing place to start your training as an absolute beginner as well as continue to build your skills from blue belt all the way up to black belt. It’s definitely the place to check out if jiu jitsu has ever caught your eye!”

— Ashley Reiners

“I find Ohm is an easy place to train. There are good partners of all ages and levels to train with and an inviting and easygoing atmosphere for learning.”

— Bob Maharrey

“No better place I’d train BJJ than at Ohm Jiu Jitsu. From white to black belts, the atmosphere is friendly while still challenging you to improve your game. If you’re looking for a BJJ gym that has its finger on the pulse of what’s going on in current BJJ, look no further.”

— Sonia Fargue

Your first class is free

No contract. No gear needed. Beginner classes Monday–Thursday at 5:30pm.

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