First BJJ Class: How to Prepare and What to Expect

You've decided to take your first BJJ class. Although it's challenging to learn, it’s certainly one you will learn to love.

You'll experience lots of emotions, from nervousness to excitement, and that's normal. If you're nervous, unsure how to prepare, and not sure what to expect from your first BJJ training session, this article is perfect for you.

We'll walk you through what entails a regular jiu-jitsu training class and what you can expect. Keep reading!

1. How to Prepare

1.1 Take A Shower

Take a shower before class. If you have an occupation that requires a lot of physical exertion, it is not a good idea to arrive at class covered in sweat, grime, and dirt. Even if you work inside an office, you may not smell good at the end of the day. However, if your gym does not have a shower, you can use your bathroom sink to clean your arms, hands, and face.

1.2 Trim your Fingers and Toenails

You cannot train in jiu-jitsu if you have long nails at your hands and feet. The standard rule for jiu-jitsu schools everywhere is that you must cut your nails before training.

When grappling, long sharp nails are likely to slice your opponents and cause infection. Don't start your training by cutting your fellow trainees.

That isn't only about making others uncomfortable with nicks and cuts. Any open wound can become a breeding ground for infections such as ringworm and staph. Long toenails or fingernails that can cut your partner's skin could prevent them from getting on a mat for months.

1.3 The Preparation for Your First BJJ Class

It is important to pack your bags full of the things you need for your first day at BJJ training.

Jiu-Jitsu is a physically rigorous martial art. You can expect to sweat profusely before the end of the class. You'll require hydration after a sparring session! Many individuals make the mistake of forgetting to bring a water bottle.

1.4 What Should I Pack?

• Water Bottle
• Flip Flops: You are required to wear shoes any time you need to get off your mat for any reason. Flip flops are easy and simple to wear and take off. If you walk barefoot, you run the risk of spreading bacteria onto your mats which could cause an infection.

1.5 How to Dress

When you're ready to attend the first session, you'll have to determine what to wear. It's unnecessary to wear a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi for your test class. Shorts, a t-shirt, or a surf rash guard are usually enough. If it is decided that BJJ is something you would like to learn and continue training in, then you'll need to purchase a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi.

It is important to try and avoid wearing clothes with pockets, belt loops, pockets, or loose fabric. They are risky as toes and fingers can get trapped in them. Find the most suitable clothes to wear for your test class.

1.6 Hygiene Basics

As BJJ is a physically demanding sport, hygiene is essential. Here are some helpful hints to remember before or during your BJJ lesson.

1.7 Before class:

• Wear flip flops or sandals in the mat area when you are outside
• Don't train if you are sick
• Don't train if you have injuries to your skin or open wounds.
• You may tie your hair up if you have thick locks.
• Shower
• Cleanse your teeth
• Trim your fingernails
• Wear a new Gi and belt

After class, make sure that you take a shower. Rinse your Gi as fast as you can and don't use the same Gi again if you plan to attend another class the following day.

2. First Class and Expectations

2.1 What Can We Do to Prepare?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu refers to a martial art focused on submission and wrestling. When you first start, you need to be ready to fight.

If you have poor fitness, you may discover that this sport is more physically demanding than you might have thought. Fights that last for five minutes may seem like an eternity if you are busy trying to escape.

2.2 Warming Up

You will discover that BJJ warm-ups are very important. Certain gyms adhere to a specific program and begin with the same warm-up routine. It could be a sequence of movements or drills that include a full-body routine or even a mixture of exercises. However, certain gyms or coaches prefer warming up by light rolling or positioning rolling (like practice wrestling).

In addition, the purpose of the class could also determine the way to warm up. For instance, in classes focusing on a takedown, they might use pummelling (a wrestling exercise) to warm up. Particularly on the first day, be prepared to not know the sport’s rules. Don't be concerned about looking awkward. Do what you can and remain open to new ideas.

2.3 Techniques

After warm-ups, you'll get in a group with a friend and head onto your mat for the first lesson. At certain schools, you'll learn a beginner curriculum. At other schools, you'll perform whatever technique is being taught. An example of a beginner curriculum could be to learn and practice these four strategies:

Guard moves to the control side.
Mounting from the side control.
Americana armlock (no-gi)
Choke with cross collar (with the gi).

2.4 Prepare For Exhaustion

Grappling is among the most demanding physical activities you could engage in. It's easy to think you're fit; however, there's no way to get ready if you've never practiced before .

Following your first jiu-jitsu lesson, you’ll feel tired and sore. You will also be breathless. It takes a long time before your body can adjust to the routine and get used to the strain. You'll be feeling like this for a long time, but eventually, you'll begin to appreciate the exercise.

2.5 The Positional Aspect of Sparring.

You might next engage in position-specific sparring that is taught in the lessons. A good example is attempting a particular hold while your partner attempts to escape. If your partner manages to escape, the position will be reset, and you will be forced to try again. This continues until the timer runs out, then you switch places with your partner.

2.6 There is an Activity for You in Jiu-Jitsu.

Whether you're obese or tiny, are older than forty, or in junior high school, you can still practice jiu-jitsu. If the methods you learned in your first class were unsuitable for you, there will be a new learning method the next day. Earning a black belt normally takes ten years. Don't get down if you don’t do so well on your first attempt.

2.7 Following Class

After your first training session, there's a chance you'll have additional questions. If you liked the class and wish to keep learning, it is possible to discuss pricing and set up a schedule.

You'll need to wear a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu belt for ongoing training.

2.8 Feel Free to Ask Questions

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your jiu-jitsu teacher. The first few days of jiu-jitsu classes are learning days. It's fine to ask questions when you have trouble understanding the lessons.

The very first jiu-jitsu lesson is designed to teach the principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Remember that you do not have to be an expert during the first session.

3. Is It Possible to Learn BJJ At Your Home?

The most important step you can take to start learning BJJ at home is to master the art of learning. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most extensive and complicated martial arts.

4. Is BJJ Easy to Master?

No matter your athletic talents or ability to learn, mastering BJJ is extremely difficult. Indeed, the challenging nature of BJJ is exactly the reason why training is extremely rewarding.

5. How Long Will It Take to Master BJJ?

Earning a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be challenging and demands years of hard work, discipline, and dedication. Achieving a black belt in BJJ may take anywhere from 10 to 15 years. However, there are often exceptions.

6. Last Words

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a one-of-a-kind adventure that will enrich your life in many ways. It is easy to develop an enthusiasm for the sport and a desire to train on the mat all day long.

You are now prepared to begin your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experience. Your first lesson will undoubtedly be enjoyable, but remember that it will become even more enjoyable as you take more sessions and learn new techniques. If you stick with it, you'll have some of the most unforgettable moments. Leave a comment below or send us a note if you think of anything that wasn't mentioned or if you want to learn more about a certain subject.

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