What Do I Need to Know Before My First Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Class?

Embarking on your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class can be an exciting yet intimidating experience. Understanding the etiquette and having some key tips in mind will help you navigate your first BJJ class with confidence and make the most of your training. In this blog post, we will cover essential information to know before your first BJJ class, including etiquette guidelines and strategies to maximize training efficiency.

Respect Academy Etiquette

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training environments have specific etiquette norms that foster a safe and respectful atmosphere. Each academy is unique and may have different guidelines from one to the other. Keep in mind the following:

• Arrive Early
  • Arrive at the academy early (generally 10-15mins early) to give yourself time to change, warm up/stretch a little, and mentally prepare for the class. 🧘🏻‍♂️ This is also a great opportunity to meet and introduce yourself 👋🏽 to other students before class starts. Get acclimated with the academies layout and where everything is (water fountain, changing rooms, bathrooms, etc.)
• Be Hygienic
  
  • Maintain good personal hygiene by showering before class and ensuring your gi (uniform) is clean. No one wants to train with the smelly person 🤢 Ensure your fingernails and toenails are trimmed. This protects yourself and your partners from any accidental scratches and/or finger nail injuries. 
• Show Respect
  • Adhere to the academies mat etiquette and procedures. Each academy is unique so asking ahead of time will save you time and avoid any confusion on your end. 🫢 Here a few general rules that most academies adhere to:
    • Addressing the instructor by specific names (ex. Coach, Professor, etc.) 🫡
    • Wear your slippers/shoes while off the mats 🚫🦠
    • No shoes on the mats 🙅🏻‍♂️
    • No cursing 🙊
    • Right-of-way during sparring is granted to pairs with a higher belt rank 🥋
• Communicate Injuries
  • If you have any pre-existing injuries or medical conditions, inform your instructor before the class begins. This will help them provide appropriate guidance and ensure your safety during training.

Stay Focused and Maximize Training Efficiency

To make the most of your first Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class and maximize your training efficiency, consider the following tips:

• Listen and Observe
  • Pay close attention to your instructor's explanations and demonstrations. Observe the finer details of techniques, body positioning, and transitions. Work with your partner through the techniques knowing that it will be difficult at first but get easier through practice (and repetition).
• Ask Questions
  • Don't hesitate to ask questions if something is unclear while allowing yourself time to work through the technique first. Instructors and higher-ranked students are usually more than willing to help clarify any doubts you may have. Embrace the various ways to learn and know that your first class will be the hardest (and most rewarding 😄 💪🏼)
• Stay Open-Minded
  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a complex martial art and you'll encounter new techniques, movements, and challenges. Approach each class with an open mind, embracing the learning process. What worked before, may not work today but may work later. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is an ever-evolving journey that provides an infinite number of solutions to infinite challenges.
• Focus on Fundamentals
  • Beginners should focus on mastering fundamental techniques before diving into advanced techniques. Building a strong foundation will benefit your progress in the long run. Developing your fundamental techniques builds a structure for you to operate from. As you progress, you'll find that your can find nuances or faster ways to get to techniques. But without that foundation, you won't figure out how all of them tie/link together. Note that Fundamentals are not the same as Basics. Basics are simple to learn while Fundamentals are important to learn. 
• Practice Proper Breathing
  • Proper breathing is crucial in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to conserve energy and maintain composure. Focus on deep, controlled breathing to stay relaxed and avoid exhaustion.
• Develop Body Awareness
  • Be mindful of your body positioning and weight distribution during drills and rolling. Developing body awareness will enhance your technique execution and defensive capabilities.

Embrace the Learning Journey

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Keep the following in mind as you begin your BJJ training:

• Embrace the Struggle
  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be challenging, both physically and mentally. Embrace the difficulties and setbacks as part of the learning process and commit to consistent practice.
• Pace Yourself
  • Don't compare your progress to others. Each individual progresses at their own pace. Focus on your own development and celebrate small victories along the way.
• Enjoy the Process
  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not just about reaching specific goals; it's about enjoying the journey and the camaraderie with fellow practitioners. Develop relationships and have fun on the mats.
• Stay Humble and Respectful
  • Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a humbling martial art. Treat your training partners with respect and maintain a humble attitude, regardless of skill levels.

Conclusion

Preparing for your first Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class involves understanding the etiquette of the academy and having a mindset that maximizes training efficiency. By following the etiquette guidelines, respecting your instructors and training partners, and implementing the tips to maximize training efficiency, you'll set a solid foundation for your BJJ journey. Remember to stay focused, embrace the learning process, and enjoy the rewarding journey!