COMMON QUESTIONS

• I’m interested but nervous about starting. Is this right for me?

  • Absolutely! Whether you're looking to get in shape, learn self-defense, compete, train with your family, or enroll your kids in Apex's top-rated martial arts program. our structured programs at JJPA (Jiu Jitsu Performance Academy) help you build confidence and skill at your own pace. Our diverse Apex BJJ community includes college students, working professionals, competitors, and families from all over the Triangle area from Apex to Holly Springs to Cary - there's a place for everyone on our mats.

• What makes your academy unique?

  • Led by Sean Spangler (4th Degree Black Belt) and our team of black belt instructors, we offer world-class BJJ and Muay Thai in a family-friendly environment and are a top-rated BJJ and Muay Thai academy in the Triangle area.. We're one of the few academies where parents can train alongside their kids or take classes simultaneously. From our kids' martial arts program to serious competitors, our academy supports every goal.

• How do classes work and what about safety?

  • Adult BJJ starts with our Foundations program, learning core techniques through expert instruction, controlled drilling, and guided practice. Our Muay Thai program offers structured striking classes for all levels. Safety is our priority - we maintain a controlled, professional environment where everyone looks out for each other. All practice is supervised and matched appropriately for size, skill, and intensity level.

• What's your kids program like?

  • Our award-winning kids' BJJ program program builds confidence, discipline, and fitness through age-appropriate classes (5-7, 7-13, and teens). With multiple coaches per class ensuring safety and attention, kids earn stripes every 10 classes to track their progress. Many parents train while their kids are in class, making BJJ their family activity.

• How does progression work?

  • For adults, we maintain high standards for belt advancement following IBJJF guidelines. This isn't a belt factory - promotions are earned through dedicated training and skill development. Adult students typically spend 1-2 years at each belt level. For kids, we have a clear progression system with stripes awarded every 10 classes, keeping them motivated while maintaining high standards. We never charge for promotions - your progress is earned, not purchased.

• What's the schedule like?

  • Classes run mornings and evenings on weekdays with weekend morning classes and Sunday open mat. Most members train 2-3 times per week. For specific times, check our out schedule page.

• What about membership and pricing?

  • We believe in earning your loyalty, not locking you in. All memberships are month-to-month with no contracts and no hidden fees. As Apex's leading Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and kids' martial arts academy, we believe in making training accessible to everyone. We offer generous family discounts to make training accessible for parents and kids training together, and you can pause or cancel anytime. For our current rates and family packages, visit our pricing page.

• What about women's training?

  • We have a strong female membership and offer dedicated women's classes. Our professional environment ensures everyone feels welcome and respected, whether in women's-only or regular classes.

• What do I need to get started?

  • Just wear comfortable athletic clothes to your first class - we provide everything else. After joining, you'll need a gi (uniform), which we can help you select. No other equipment needed to begin.

• Where are you located and how do you maintain your facility?

  • We're conveniently located in Apex with plenty of free parking, easily accessible from Holly Springs, Cary, and Fuquay-Varina. Our professional-grade mats and facilities are cleaned multiple times daily, and we maintain strict hygiene protocols to ensure a clean, safe training environment.

• How do I get started at JPA?

  • It's simple - sign up for a free class and experience our academy firsthand. Our instructors will guide you through your first session, answer any questions, and help you find the right program for your goals. No pressure, no obligations - just come see why we're Apex's trusted choice for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts training.

Trusted by hundreds of active members
Apex's #1 BJJ Academy
No experience needed. All fitness levels welcome