Frequently Asked Questions

Whetstone Jiu-Jitsu is located at 2305 Crompond Road, Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567. Our academy serves students throughout Northern Westchester and Lower Putnam County, including Peekskill, Yorktown Heights, Mohegan Lake, Jefferson Valley, Shrub Oak, Cortlandt Manor, Croton-on-Hudson, Ossining, Buchanan, Montrose, Putnam Valley, Mahopac, and surrounding communities.

Absolutely. Most of our students begin with no martial arts experience. Our beginner-friendly classes teach the fundamentals step by step in a welcoming environment where you’ll learn at your own pace. You don’t need previous experience, athletic ability, or knowledge of martial arts to get started.

Yes. We offer a free trial so you can experience a class, meet our instructors, tour the academy, and see if Whetstone is the right fit before becoming a member.

Your first class typically includes a warm-up, technique instruction, partner drilling, and an introduction to how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are structured. New students are never expected to know anything beforehand, and our coaches will help guide you through each step.

For your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing such as a T-shirt or rash guard and athletic shorts without zippers or pockets. Bring a water bottle and sandals or flip-flops to wear off the mats. If you’re attending a gi class, we’ll explain uniform options after your trial.

No. Many students join specifically to improve their fitness. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu naturally develops cardiovascular endurance, strength, mobility, balance, coordination, and flexibility. You don’t need to get in shape before you start—the training helps you get there.

Not at all. Adults begin training in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. Classes can be adapted to different ages, fitness levels, and goals, making Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu one of the most accessible martial arts for adults.

Gi Jiu-Jitsu is practiced in the traditional uniform and emphasizes grip-based techniques using the gi. No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu is practiced in athletic clothing and focuses more on wrestling, body positioning, and faster-paced movement. Training both provides a well-rounded grappling skill set.

Yes. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the world’s most respected self-defense martial arts because it teaches leverage, positional control, escapes, takedown defense, and submissions rather than relying on size or strength alone. It also emphasizes awareness, confidence, and remaining calm under pressure.

Safety is one of our highest priorities. We emphasize proper technique, controlled training, respectful partners, and a clean training environment. While any physical activity carries some risk, beginners learn progressively and are never expected to perform advanced techniques before they’re ready.

Yes. Our youth programs help children build confidence, discipline, respect, coordination, and practical self-defense skills in a positive, structured environment. Classes are organized by age and experience level to help every child learn safely.

Yes. In addition to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Whetstone offers MMA and Muay Thai programs for students interested in striking, mixed martial arts, fitness, or becoming well-rounded martial artists.

Yes. Youth wrestling is a major focus at Whetstone, and children and beginners are strongly encouraged to train. The program develops stance, movement, hand fighting, takedowns, and positional control. Wrestling is not limited to children; students of all ages, including teens and adults, are welcome.

Absolutely. While many of our students train for fitness, self-defense, and personal growth, we also support those who want to compete in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and grappling tournaments. Our coaches can help prepare students for competition when they’re ready.

Most beginners make excellent progress training two to three times per week. Consistency is far more important than training every day, and our coaches can help you choose a schedule that fits your goals and lifestyle.

Whetstone combines high-level martial arts instruction with a relaxed, welcoming training culture. Our coaches take training seriously without creating a restrictive or intimidating environment. Beginners, hobbyists, and competitors train alongside one another. Members are encouraged to spend time after class drilling technique and practicing as much as they'd like. We understand that training is not one-size-fits-all and we strive to help every member meet their goals.

No. Whetstone does not require students to sign a long term training contract. We want people to train because they enjoy being here and see value in the community and the coaching, not because they are locked into a contract.

No. We have Whetstone gear available for students who want it, but you are not required to purchase gym-branded clothing or uniforms. A gi is required for gi classes, and appropriate athletic attire for no-gi training. Muay Thai and MMA require 16oz Gloves and Muay Thai shinguards. If you already own suitable training gear, you are welcome to use it, otherwise gear is available for purchase at the front desk.

When the schedule and mat space allow, members are welcome to stay after class to drill, roll, and work on technique. We want Whetstone to be a place where people can spend as much time as they'd like training rather than being rushed out the door as soon as class ends.