Questions before you step on the mat

What is Train My Hands for War?

A free monthly Christian Jiu-Jitsu Connect Group for men and sons 13 and older. We meet at 3 Embers Grappling Academy in McKinney, Texas, to train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, pray together, and build disciplined brotherhood.

Is this an open mat?

No. It is a guided 90-minute session with prayer, instruction, drilling, and controlled live work. We are not an open mat, tournament prep class, or rank-promotion event.

When and where do you meet?

Normally the last Friday of the month, 6:30–8:00 p.m. Central, with check-in from 6:15 p.m. December 2026 and November/December 2027 move to the third Friday because of holiday weeks. We meet at 3 Embers Grappling Academy, 320 Industrial Blvd., Ste. 206, McKinney, TX 75069.

Do I need experience?

No. Beginners are welcome and get their own positional lane with coach-directed drilling. You do not need to be in shape or know any technique before your first class.

What should I wear?

A clean, fully dried gi with a rashguard or athletic shirt and compression shorts underneath. Sandals or slides for off-mat areas. Trimmed nails, no jewelry, and a mouthguard is strongly recommended for live rounds.

Do I need my own gi?

Yes — this is a gi session. Loaner gis are available by advance request, subject to size and availability. Request one when you reserve so we can check availability and sizing.

How do I check in?

Arrive by 6:15 p.m., find the check-in table, give your name, and confirm both required waivers are signed. Minors 13–17 need a parent or guardian on site with a signed guardian waiver.

What are the two waivers?

You must complete the Train My Hands for War release and the host academy release before stepping on the mat. Both are linked on the Mat Ready page and on every event page.

Can I bring my son?

Sons 13–17 are welcome when the host academy approves youth participation for that session. A parent or legal guardian must register them, complete all required documents, and remain on site.

Do I have to roll or spar?

No. Consent outranks rank. You may decline or stop any round with anyone, at any time, without explanation. Live rounds are separated by lane and require coach clearance.

What techniques are not allowed?

Slams, jumping guard, flying submissions, scissor takedowns, uncontrolled sacrifice throws, neck cranks, spinal locks, heel hooks, knee reaping, kneebars, toe holds, biceps or calf slicers, wrist locks, and any technique not authorized for your lane.

What happens if someone gets hurt?

All coaches and organizers are instructed to stop training immediately. A suspected concussion means immediate removal, parent or guardian notification for a minor, and no return to contact training until cleared by an appropriate healthcare provider.

Does it cost anything?

No. The gathering is free. We do not sell memberships, merchandise, or instruction on the mat.

Will I earn a belt or stripe?

No. We award no belts or stripes and honor every member's home academy, coaches, and rank.

Can I take photos or videos?

Photo and video permission is separate, optional, and never a condition of participation. We respect privacy and will not tag or post anyone without explicit consent.

What if I am running late?

Check-in closes once the safety briefing begins. Late arrivals may be asked to observe that session and return next month, because missing the safety briefing compromises the mat for everyone.

How do I reserve my spot?

Use the Reserve My Mat form. It collects your name, email, and any loaner gi request so we can plan mat space and lanes.

How do I contact you?

Email mail@trainmyhandsforwar.com for questions, accessibility needs, or to request a loaner gi.

If your question is not answered here, send it through the contact form or email mail@trainmyhandsforwar.com.