Your first BJJ class
Your first BJJ class is a normal class with a calm start. You warm up and learn one or two moves. Then you practise them slowly with a partner. You may also spar (practise fighting) lightly.
Before you go
- Message the gym first. Ask which class is for beginners and if the first class is free. Many gyms offer a free trial.
- Ask if they can lend you a gi. A gi is the jacket, trousers and belt worn in BJJ. Many gyms have spare ones.
- Cut your fingernails and toenails short.
- Eat a light meal two to three hours before class, not just before.
What to bring
- A gi, or a T-shirt and sports shorts with no pockets or zips. See what to wear to BJJ.
- Sandals or flip-flops for walking off the mat.
- A water bottle and a small towel.
- A hair tie if you have long hair.
- A mouthguard if you have one. It is not required in most gyms.
When you arrive
- Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
- Tell the front desk or the coach that it is your first class.
- Sign the waiver form. Most gyms ask for one.
- Change, take off all jewellery, and leave your shoes at the edge of the mat.
- Wait at the side until the coach starts the class.
What happens in the class
Most classes follow the same order. Read how a class works for the full picture. In short, the parts are:
| Part | What you do | How hard |
|---|---|---|
| Warm-up | Solo movements like shrimping (moving your hips away on your side) and bridging | Easy to medium |
| Technique | Watch the coach show a move | Just watch |
| Drilling | Practise the move with a partner who helps you | Slow, no resistance |
| Positional sparring | Spar from one set position, like side control | Real resistance, one position |
| Rolling | Free sparring in timed rounds | Real resistance |
How to act on the mat
- Tap early. Tapping means you give up. Tap your partner or the mat two or more times, or say tap. Learn more in how to tap.
- Let go at once when your partner taps.
- Go slowly. Use technique, not strength.
- Do not grab fingers or slam anyone.
- Ask questions. Most coaches are happy to help.
Sam arrives early and tells the coach it is his first day. He borrows a gi. In the warm-up he copies the others. The coach shows a simple escape, and a friendly blue belt helps Sam drill it. Sam watches the rolling rounds and goes home tired but not hurt.
Do I need to be fit for my first BJJ class?
No. You get fit by training. Go at your own pace and rest when you need to.
Will I have to spar in my first class?
It depends on the gym. Many gyms wait a few classes. If you spar, ask for a light round and tap early.
How long is a BJJ class?
Most classes are 60 to 90 minutes. Check the gym's timetable.
Your partner taps during drilling. What do you do?
Train it on the Path
The Before you roll unit turns this into short lessons: you see a position and pick the best move.