Jiu Jitsu

Stepping onto the mat for your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class can feel exciting and a little scary. Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Everyone feels nervous at first. BJJ is a martial art where you learn to fight on the ground, using holds and moves to control your opponent. It’s great for self-defense, fitness, and fun. Plus, it focuses on technique, not strength, so anyone can do it.

Your first class will likely start with a warm-up—like running or stretching—then you’ll practice moves with a partner. You might even try some light sparring, called “rolling.” Sound cool? It is! But it can also feel tricky if you’re not ready. That’s why I’ve got 10 simple tips to make your first day smooth and awesome. Let’s get you prepared so you walk in confident and leave smiling. Ready?

Let’s get started!

1. Pick the Right Gear (No Stress Needed!)

What you wear matters for your first BJJ class. You don’t need fancy stuff right away—no gi (that’s the BJJ uniform) required yet. Just grab a clean t-shirt and shorts. Make sure there are no zippers or buttons. Why? Those can scratch your partner, and nobody wants that. Keep it simple and comfy. Oh, and pack a water bottle—you’ll sweat a lot! Want to know why flip-flops matter? Keep reading!

2. Trim Your Nails (Trust Me, It’s a Big Deal)

This one’s easy but super important. Long nails can scratch someone when you’re training. I’ve seen it happen—someone grabs an arm, and oops, there’s a scratch. It’s not fun for anyone. So, before you go, cut your fingernails and toenails short. It keeps things safe and shows respect. Next up, a hygiene tip you can’t skip!

3. Shower Up (Smell Good, Feel Good)

Nobody wants to train with someone who smells bad. BJJ means getting close—really close—so take a quick shower before class. Use soap, wash your hair, and feel fresh. If you’ve got a cut or rash, tell your coach. They’ll help you figure it out. Clean vibes make everyone happy. What should you bring next? Let’s find out!

Bonus Tip: Do a light warm-up at home—like jumping jacks or stretches for 5-10 minutes. It gets your body ready and helps avoid injuries. You’ll thank yourself later!

4. Bring Flip-Flops (Your Feet Will Thank You)

You’re thinking, “Flip-flops for a workout?” Yup! The mat where you train stays clean because everyone takes off their shoes. But the gym floor? Not so much. Wear flip-flops from the door to the mat, then kick them off before stepping on. It keeps dirt and germs away. Trust me, mats get sweaty—this helps a ton. Coming up: How to avoid that newbie stare!

5. Watch and Learn (Don’t Just Stand There)

Your first class can feel overwhelming. People are moving, stretching, chatting—what do you do? Get there early and watch. See how others act. Are they bowing to the mat? Tying their belts a certain way? Copy them. If you’re lost, ask someone, “Hey, what’s the routine?” Most people love to help newbies. Next, a simple trick to win friends fast!

6. Say Hi to Everyone (Be the Friendly One)

BJJ is all about community. Walk in with a smile and say, “Hey, I’m new!” Shake hands or give a nod. Some gyms bow as a sign of respect—watch for that. I remember my first class—I said hi to a big guy who turned out to be the coach. Instant connection! Being friendly makes you feel welcome. Up next: A mat rule you can’t mess up!

7. Listen to the Coach (They’re Your Guide)

Your coach is there to help you. They’ll show you moves—like how to hold someone or escape a grip. Pay attention, even if words like “guard” or “mount” sound weird at first. I got confused my first day, but I asked, “Can you show me again?” Coaches love questions. It’s how you learn. Stick around for a move you’ll use right away!

8. Tap Early (Save Your Pride—and Your Arm)

Here’s a big one: tapping out. If someone puts you in a hold—like a choke or arm lock—and it hurts, tap their body fast. Two quick taps mean “I’m done.” It’s not losing—it’s staying safe. I waited too long once and felt my elbow creak. Never again! Tap early, reset, and try again. Next: How to keep going without burning out!

9. Pace Yourself (You’re Not a Black Belt Yet)

BJJ is tough on your body. You’ll roll around, sweat, and breathe hard. Don’t go all out in five minutes and crash. Breathe slow and deep. If you’re tired, sit out for a bit. Focus on the moves, not muscling through. Research says beginners often use strength instead of technique—don’t do that! Save your energy. Almost done: A secret pros use after class!

10. Thank Your Partners (Leave like a Champ)

When class ends, don’t just grab your stuff and run. Say “Thanks” or “Good roll” to everyone you trained with. It’s a BJJ tradition. I thanked a guy after my first class, and he gave me tips for next time. It builds respect and makes you part of the team. Ready to crush your first class? Let’s wrap this up!

Final Words: 10 Essential Tips for Your First BJJ Class

You’re ready to rock your first BJJ class with these 10 tips! Let’s recap: Pick comfy gear with no zippers, trim your nails to avoid scratches, shower up to stay fresh, and bring flip-flops for clean feet. Walk in smart—watch others, say hi, and listen to your coach like they’re your GPS. On the mat, tap early to stay safe, pace yourself so you don’t crash, and thank your partners to build that BJJ family vibe. These steps aren’t just for day one—they set you up for every class after.

Think of it like this: your first class is the start of an adventure. You might fumble a move or feel awkward—that’s okay! I tripped over my own feet my first day, but I still left grinning. Every tip here helps you feel less lost and more excited. Grab your gear, take a deep breath, and step on that mat with confidence. You’re not just learning moves—you’re joining a crew that’s got your back.

 Now it’s your turn. Try these tips, see what works, and come back to tell me about it. Did tapping early save you? Did a “Thanks” after class score you a new buddy? Share your story below—I’d love to hear how your first roll goes. Your BJJ journey starts today, and it’s going to be awesome!

Faqs: 10 Essential Tips for Your First BJJ Class

Do I need to be fit to start BJJ?

No way! You don’t have to be in top shape to begin. BJJ is for everyone—big, small, fit, or not. Your first class might tire you out, but that’s normal. The more you go, the fitter you’ll get. It’s like learning to ride a bike—you start wobbly, then get strong. Just show up and try!

Will I feel dumb with all the pros around?

Not at all. Everyone in class was a newbie once—even the black belts! Most people are super nice and happy to help. You might roll with someone who knows more, and they’ll show you tricks. My first day, a guy with a fancy belt slowed down to teach me a move. You’ll fit in fast.

What if I don’t know any moves?

No problem! Your first class is all about learning, not knowing. The coach will show you simple stuff—like how to move your hips or hold someone. You’re not expected to be good yet. I didn’t know a thing my first day, and I still had fun. Just follow along and ask questions.

How often should I go to class?

Start with 2-3 times a week. That’s enough to learn and get better without feeling burned out. Rest days help your body recover—BJJ can make you sore at first! I went twice a week to start, then added more when I felt ready. Listen to your body and find your rhythm.

Does BJJ hurt?

It shouldn’t! If you tap early like Tip #8 says, you’ll stay safe. You might feel sore after—like after a good workout—but that’s just your muscles waking up. Tell your coach if anything hurts during class. They’ll adjust things. I got a few bruises my first week, but nothing bad.

What if I’m nervous about rolling (sparring)?

Totally normal! Rolling can feel wild at first—you’re wrestling with someone, after all. But it’s light and fun for beginners. You don’t have to roll your first day—some gyms let you watch instead. I sat out my first roll and still learned a ton. Go at your pace, and you’ll love it soon.

Can I wear my gym clothes?

Yes, but keep it simple. A clean t-shirt and shorts with no zippers work great—check Tip #1. Don’t wear loose stuff that can rip or anything with metal bits. Later, you might get a gi, but for now, basic workout gear is fine. Bring flip-flops too for the mat!

How long until I get good?

It depends, but don’t rush. After a few months of 2-3 classes a week, you’ll start feeling smoother. Getting your first belt (white to blue) can take 1-2 years. Focus on small wins—like escaping a hold. I felt progress after a month, and it kept me hooked!