Your First BJJ Class: What to Expect

Your first class is all about embracing the basics. The focus will be on fundamental movements and concepts that build the foundation for your entire Jiu-Jitsu journey.

• The Warm-Up: Unlike a typical gym warm-up, our warm-ups are specific to Jiu-Jitsu. You’ll learn essential movements like shrimping, bridging, and forward/backward rolls. These aren’t just for getting your heart rate up; they are critical defensive and transitional movements you will use constantly.

• The Technique: After the warm-up, the instructor will demonstrate a technique. It will be broken down step-by-step to make it easy to understand. For beginners, this will likely be a core concept, such as an escape from a common position or a fundamental submission.

• Partner Drilling: You will be paired with another student to practice the technique. This is a cooperative process. The goal is not to “win” but to help each other learn the movements correctly. It’s a great way to build camaraderie and muscle memory.

• Positional Sparring: Towards the end of the class, you may participate in positional sparring. This is a controlled form of live training where you start in a specific position and work to apply the technique you just learned. It’s a safe way to understand how a technique works against a resisting opponent.

Essential Mat Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules

The dojo (academy) has a code of conduct that fosters respect, safety, and a positive learning environment. Following these rules of etiquette is crucial.

Hygiene is Non-Negotiable

• Clean Gi: Always wear a clean, washed Gi (the uniform) for every class. It should be free of rips or tears.

• Personal Cleanliness: Come to class clean.

• Trimmed Nails: Keep your fingernails and toenails short and trimmed to prevent scratches on your training partners.

• Cover Cuts: Any open cuts or abrasions must be covered with athletic tape or a bandage.

Respect for the Dojo and Others

• Bow: Bow when you enter and leave the mat. This is a sign of respect for the training area, your instructors, and your teammates.

• No Shoes on the Mat: Never wear shoes, sandals, or socks on the mat. This keeps the training surface clean and sanitary.

• Listen to the Instructor: When the instructor is demonstrating a technique, stop what you are doing, be quiet, and pay attention.

• Be on Time: Punctuality shows respect for your instructors and fellow students.

Safety During Training

• Tap Early, Tap Often: Tapping your partner, the mat, or saying “tap” verbally is how you signal submission. There is no shame in tapping; it is an essential part of learning. When your partner taps, release the submission immediately.

• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: When sparring (rolling), be mindful of other pairs training around you to avoid collisions.

• Leave Your Ego at the Door: Your training partners are your greatest asset. Train in a way that keeps both you and them safe so you can all return for the next class.