Frequently Asked Questions
Paul Tom’s Academy of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — American Fork, Utah
Everything you need to know before stepping on the mat for the first time.
Getting Started
Do I need any experience to join?
No experience is required. We offer a Jiu Jitsu Fundamentals class designed specifically for people who have never trained before. It covers the core positions, escapes, and submissions that every student needs to build a solid foundation. Most new students start here before moving into other classes.
What should I wear to my first class?
For your first class, comfortable athletic clothing is fine — shorts and a t-shirt work well. If you decide to continue training, you’ll need a gi (uniform). [FLAG: Does the academy sell gis or recommend a specific brand/supplier?]
What happens during a first class?
You’ll be welcomed by an instructor who will walk you through what to expect. Classes typically begin with a warm-up, move into technique instruction, and end with supervised drilling or sparring depending on your level. You won’t be thrown into anything you’re not ready for. [FLAG: Confirm this is accurate for Fundamentals class structure]
Is there a free trial?
Yes. We offer a free 7-day trial so you can experience the academy before committing to a membership. No pressure, no hard sell — just come in and train.
Programs & Classes
What programs do you offer?
We offer classes for adults, women, and kids across several disciplines:
For Adults
- Jiu Jitsu Fundamentals (best starting point for beginners)
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu — Gi
- No Gi Jiu Jitsu
- Jiu Jitsu Technique
- Mixed Martial Arts
- StrikeFit
- Open Mat
For Women
- Women’s Only Jiu Jitsu (Monday & Wednesday evenings)
For Kids
- Kids Jiu Jitsu — Gi
- Kids No Gi
- Kids Mixed Martial Arts
What is the difference between Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu?
Gi Jiu Jitsu is trained wearing a traditional uniform (gi). The gi allows for grip-based techniques and is the foundation of authentic Gracie Jiu Jitsu. No Gi is trained in athletic clothing without a uniform, which changes the dynamics of gripping and is often faster-paced. Both are valuable and most students train both over time.
Do you offer classes for beginners specifically?
Yes. Our Jiu Jitsu Fundamentals class runs every Tuesday and Thursday at 6:00 PM and is the recommended starting point for all new adult students. It covers the foundational techniques and concepts every student needs before advancing to other classes.
What is StrikeFit?
StrikeFit is a striking-based conditioning class that combines punches, kicks, and combinations with fitness training. It runs Monday, Wednesday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 6:00 AM. No prior striking experience is needed — it’s a great way to build functional fitness and learn striking fundamentals at the same time.
What is Open Mat?
Open Mat is unstructured mat time — no formal instruction, just drilling and sparring. It’s available to all members and runs throughout the week. This is where students put what they’ve learned into practice and develop their own game.
Do you have a Women’s Only class?
Yes. Our Women’s Only Jiu Jitsu class runs every Monday and Wednesday at 7:00 PM. It covers authentic Gracie Jiu Jitsu — the same techniques taught across the academy — in a dedicated space for women at every experience level. It’s a safe, welcoming environment with real self-defense focus.
Kids Program
What ages do you accept for kids classes?
We teach children as young as four years old. We offer multiple kids class times throughout the week to fit most family schedules. [FLAG: Confirm upper age range for kids program — at what age do they transition to adult classes?]
What will my child learn?
Kids learn authentic Gracie Jiu Jitsu fundamentals in a structured, age-appropriate environment. Beyond technique, the program builds discipline, focus, self-control, confidence, and respect — values that carry over into school and everyday life.
Will my child become aggressive or hostile?
No. Martial arts is, at its core, about respect and self-restraint. Students are taught when and how to use what they learn — and more importantly, when not to. Whether your child is naturally calm or has excess energy, most parents notice positive improvement in behavior and focus.
Will my child get hurt?
We train at the right pace for each child and take safety seriously. As with any athletic activity, minor bumps happen — but injuries are rare. Our instructors have years of experience knowing what leads to injury and how to avoid it.
Is it just for boys?
Not at all. We have plenty of both boys and girls training together. The program is built for any child who wants to learn.
Instructors & Lineage
What days and times are kids classes offered?
- Monday & Wednesday: 9:00 AM (Kids No Gi), 5:00 PM (Kids MMA)
- Tuesday & Thursday: 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM (Kids Jiu Jitsu)
- Saturday: 9:00 AM (Kids Jiu Jitsu)
Multiple time slots make it easy to find something that fits your family’s schedule.
Who is Professor Paul Tom?
Professor Paul Tom is a 3rd degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt with over 20 years of teaching experience. He has trained security personnel, police officers, FBI agents, military personnel, and thousands of everyday people throughout Utah. He has been inducted into the Martial Arts Hall of Fame and has received recognition from multiple media outlets for his expertise in the art.
Paul began his martial arts journey as a child, learning self-defense from his father — an Army Ranger who served during the Korean conflict. He began formal training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 1995 and has been teaching ever since.
Who did Paul Tom train under?
Professor Tom is a black belt under Grandmaster Flavio Behring, one of the only red belts in the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Flavio Behring is a direct student of Grand Master Helio Gracie, the founder of Gracie Jiu Jitsu. This makes Professor Tom two steps from Helio Gracie — one of the most direct lineages available in Utah.
Are there other black belt instructors at the academy?
Yes. Professor Tom’s two sons, Trevor and Nathan, are both Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt professors who regularly teach at the academy. The academy currently has four black belt professors who teach and train on a regular basis, ensuring every student receives high-level instruction regardless of which class they attend.
What is the teaching philosophy at Paul Tom’s Academy?
The curriculum is built around three core principles: posture, pressure, and precision. Professor Tom’s focus is authentic Helio Gracie Jiu Jitsu with an emphasis on real-world self-defense. He believes the details are what separate functional Jiu Jitsu from truly sharp Jiu Jitsu — which is why the academy’s motto is: The devil is in the details.
Membership
Are there contracts?
No. There are no long-term contracts at Paul Tom’s Academy.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes. Family discounts are available for households enrolling multiple members. Contact us or visit the sign-up page for current details.
How do I sign up?
The easiest way to get started is to claim your free 7-day trial. From there, a coach will walk you through membership options and help you find the right fit for your schedule and goals.
Safety & Injury
Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu safe for beginners?
Yes. BJJ is widely regarded as one of the safer martial arts to begin because it emphasizes technique and control over strength and impact. Our instructors are experienced in teaching safely and at the right pace for each student’s ability level.
What if I have a pre-existing injury or medical condition?
We recommend checking with your doctor before starting any new physical activity. Once cleared, let us know about any limitations or precautions your doctor recommends and we’ll make sure you train in a safe way that accounts for your situation.
Do I need to be in shape before starting?
No. Whatever shape you’re in, the classes will help you get fitter over time. Most students notice significant improvements in strength, mobility, and endurance within the first few months of consistent training.
Location & Logistics
Where are you located?
We are located at 920 E State St, American Fork, Utah 84003. When you arrive, head to the south end of the building and enter through the back. We serve students from across Utah County including Lehi, Pleasant Grove, Orem, and Provo.
Where can I park?
There is a private parking lot available at the facility. [FLAG: Any specific parking notes worth adding?]
What are your class days and hours?
Classes run Monday through Saturday. Morning classes begin as early as 6:00 AM and evening classes run as late as 8:00 PM. See the full schedule on our Schedule page.
How do I get started?
The easiest way is to claim your free 7-day trial. Fill out the form on our Free Trial page and a coach will be in touch to get you scheduled. You can also call or text us directly at (801) 362-0391.
Community & Culture
What kind of people train here?
Paul Tom’s Academy attracts a wide range of people — men and women in their 20s and 30s looking for community and challenge, law enforcement and military personnel training for protection and fitness, competitive grapplers pursuing tournament goals, parents training alongside their kids, and complete beginners who just want to try something new. Everyone is welcome.
Is it a competitive atmosphere?
It’s serious without being ego-driven. The culture here is built on mutual respect — experienced students help newer ones, and nobody is here to prove anything at someone else’s expense. Multiple reviewers have specifically noted the absence of “mat bullies” and the genuine willingness of upper belts to help lower belts develop.
Do I have to compete in tournaments?
Not at all. Many students train purely for fitness, self-defense, or personal development and never compete. For those who do want to compete, our instructors have extensive experience preparing students for tournaments at every level.
Do you support the We Defy Foundation?
Yes. Paul Tom’s Academy is a proud supporter of the We Defy Foundation, which provides combat veterans coping with military-connected disabilities a long-term path to healing through Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and fitness training. Learn more at wedefyfoundation.org.
