Good questions
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu FAQ
Everything new students ask before their first class at White Lotus Jiu Jitsu in Walker's Point, Milwaukee.
Getting started
Brand new? Our guide to starting BJJ covers your first class, gear, hygiene, safety, belts and rolling.
Do I need experience or need to be in shape to start?
No. Most White Lotus students started with zero experience. Class builds strength, flexibility and conditioning over time, so you don't need to get fit first.
Which class should I take first?
White Belt Methods, on Tuesday or Thursday at 5:30 PM. It's structured for brand-new students and covers how to move, where to stand and what to expect.
What should I wear to my first class?
Comfortable athletic clothes with no zippers, buttons or hard pockets. Bring water.
How do I sign up for the free week?
Fill out the free trial sign-up. Meghan will reach out to answer questions and help you pick your first class.
Cost & memberships
How much does BJJ cost at White Lotus?
Your first week is free. Memberships are $120 a month (or $1,250 a year) for unlimited training, or $75 a month (or $825 a year) for 8 classes a month for experienced cross-trainers. BJJ black belts train free. See membership pricing.
Can I train outside of class times?
Yes. Resident members have 24/7/365 mat access and can use the space during non-class times.
Training at White Lotus
Why is it called White Lotus?
The name comes from Avatar: The Last Airbender, one of our cherished shows for its themes of self-discovery, perseverance, and mastery of the elements. In the show, the Order of the White Lotus is an ancient society whose members come from different backgrounds to exchange wisdom and seek philosophy, beauty, and truth. We wanted to build a similar community around Brazilian jiujitsu, with open source learning and exploration. More about our name.
Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu safe? Will I get hurt?
We train for longevity. Our classes focus on leverage and technique instead of force, partners are expected to look after each other, and tapping early is encouraged. Most of our members have jobs to go to the next day, and we train with that in mind.
Am I too old to start jiu jitsu?
No. Members start in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond. We help you train at a pace that respects your body and builds skill gradually.
Do women train at White Lotus?
Yes. Women train here at every level, classes are co-ed, and the number of women keeps growing. We have a variety of instructors, including black belt owner Meghan Wagner. See women's jiu jitsu.
Do I have to compete?
No. You can train for fitness, fun, community and growth. Students who want to compete have a Saturday Competition Class, but competing is never required.
Do you offer kids classes?
Yes, and they are free. Kids classes are offered through the City Champs Foundation, a nonprofit. The kids class (ages 6+) runs Wednesdays and the teens class runs Thursdays, both 4:00 to 5:00 PM. Sign up with the City Champs form. See kids jiu jitsu.
Who are the coaches?
Meghan Wagner (owner, BJJ black belt under Jay Pages, 3rd degree Tae Kwon Do black belt, Master's in Education) and Joshua Janis (2nd degree BJJ black belt, 20+ years training, coaching since 2012, BJJ Fanatics instructor). Jeremy Anderson (BJJ purple belt) coaches BYOS Drilling and the Competition Class, and Joshua Beier (BJJ purple belt) coaches Kickboxing, and Zach Engsberg (BJJ blue belt) coaches the 6:30 AM Morning Flow class. Meet the coaches.
Visiting & finding us
Can I visit if I train somewhere else?
Yes! We welcome all visitors! We're BJJ Globetrotters affiliated and love having guests. Reach out to let us know what you plan to come to. (414) 253-6103 · info@whitelotusbjj.com
Where are you located and where do I park?
420 S 1st St, Milwaukee, WI 53204, in Walker's Point. Enter on the northwest side of the building under the blue awning, through the Comedy Sports office door, and go upstairs. Parking in the lot is fine.
What else is in the gym?
Over 1,200 square feet of mats, a sauna, a strength and conditioning area, a kids clubhouse and the Lotus Lounge.
Do you work with Marquette University?
Yes. White Lotus coaches teach the Marquette University BJJ Club at Humphrey Hall. See the Marquette BJJ page for times.
Still have a question? Call (414) 253-6103 or email info@whitelotusbjj.com.
Your first week is on us
No experience, fitness level, or athletic background required.