This review will cover baby sharks and adult classes!…read more
We have been attending Apex since October. My son is in the baby shark class and has learned more in a few short months, than he has than the last year elsewhere.
The gym is clean. It looks clean, it smells clean, and you can even witness cleaning in between classes.
Baby Sharks:
There are two adults managing the baby shark class, they do not allow nor teach chokes at this level, and they even have teens that are very knowledgable assisting.
Each group is heavily monitored. The class, though only 30 minutes, is absolutely jam packed. They normally do a warm up (like running, a counting game, and some body movements). Then it's usually technique, drills, and sparring.
There is little opportunity for your little one to get TOO distracted because there isn't much time in-between each transition. There are plenty of hands so kids aren't just sitting around waiting. And they are working! My kid always comes out sweaty.
What I will say, is I appreciate the way the professors calm a meltdown. There is no yelling, there is no shaming. It's a low voice, with expectations and consequence. Whether it be no sparring that day, or whatever. The kids are constantly being asked by the instructors: What's #1 and they respond FAMILY! #2 SCHOOL! #3 FAMILY/JIUJITSU
I just really love and appreciate the emphasis on correction, discipline, and respect.
Adult class:
I never imagined I myself trying, but after a gf said she tried it and loved it, she asked me to come to the women's class. I did, and I haven't looked back. I have no skills in this, I have no special athleticism, and yet.... here I am. grinding my way through. It's not easy... but it's so fun, and the camaraderie this gym has built is unmatched. You will get thrown in, but it's a safe environment. It's constant refinement in technique. And maybe some self awareness on the students end!
The women's group alone is full of classy, wonderful ladies who will absolutely demolish you.... but in a good way. They are friendly, they are knowledgable, and they have inspired me to continue. I strive to learn, get better, and be a good training partner.
So this was a lengthy way to say, that if you're on the fence about it... just do it. Leave your ego behind and just go for it. Age, sex, whatever. None of it matters. Just be teachable.