Beginner’s Guide: Your First BJJ Class

Pre-Class Preparation

Success on the mats starts before you even leave your house. Taking a few small steps to prepare will help you feel confident and ready to learn.

What to Wear: Gi vs. No-Gi

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is typically practiced in two styles: "Gi" and "No-Gi".

• "Gi" is the traditional uniform that looks like a heavy cotton kimono.
• "No-Gi" involves wearing form-fitting athletic gear like rash guards and grappling shorts.

If you do not own a Gi yet, do not worry. For your first class, comfortable athletic wear is perfectly fine. We recommend a tight-fitting t-shirt or compression shirt and shorts without pockets or zippers. Zippers and loose pockets can accidentally catch a finger or toe, so staying "streamlined" is a safety priority.

We also have loaner Gis available if you're joining a Gi-required class and don't yet have one of your own.

Hygiene: The Golden Rule of the Mats

In BJJ, we work in close proximity with our training partners. This makes hygiene extremely important for everyone's comfort and health. Here are a few quick things to check before your first class:

• Please ensure your fingernails and toenails are trimmed short. This prevents accidental scratches during drills.
• Arrive fresh and clean - make sure to shower prior to class.
• Never wear your outside shoes on the mats, and never go barefoot once you step off the mats. We have slides for walking to the restroom or the lobby to keep our training surface pristine.
• Make sure to wash your Gi or uniform after every training.

Nutrition and Hydration

You do not need to fast before class, but generally, you should avoid eating a heavy meal right before you train. Aim for a light snack or a balanced meal about two to three hours before your session.

Hydration is equally critical. Start drinking water steadily throughout the day rather than trying to gulp it all down right before the warm-up starts.

Overall, be sure to listen to your body and follow what you feel is best.

Arriving at Southside Jiu Jitsu Club

When you walk through our doors, you are entering a space dedicated to mutual growth.

The Check-In Process

We encourage new students to arrive about 15 minutes early. This gives our staff time to introduce themselves, give you a quick tour of the facility, and help you get acclimated to the changing areas. You will also need to sign a standard waiver before stepping onto the mats. This early arrival ensures you aren't rushing and can start your first class with a calm, focused mind.

Once you arrive and get to know the gym, we will also walk you through the sign in process including an app that you'll use to easily manage your membership and sign in for your classes.

Mat Etiquette 101

Discipline is one of our core values. This is a simple gesture of respect for the training space and the art itself. Classes usually begin with a "line-up," where students stand in order of rank. As a beginner, you will find your place at the end of the line. This structure helps maintain order and reminds us that everyone has a specific role in the room.

What to Expect During Your First Class

Every class at SJJC follows a deliberate structure to ensure you learn safely and effectively. After your initial consultation, you'll likely begin with our 6 week transformation challenge.

The Warm-Up

We spend the first 15 to 20 minutes on functional movements. You might find yourself doing "shrimps," technical stand-ups, or forward rolls across the mat. These movements might feel a bit strange at first, but they are the literal building blocks of Jiu Jitsu. Shrimping, for example, is the primary way we move our hips to escape a difficult position. These exercises prepare your body for the specific demands of grappling.

Technique and Drilling

After the warm-up, the instructor will demonstrate a specific technique. This could be a basic escape, a sweep, or a way to control an opponent. You will be paired with a partner, often an experienced student who can help guide you through the motions. We practice these moves slowly and safely. The goal is to understand the mechanics of the movement rather than using brute force.

Positional Training or "Rolling"

"Rolling" is what we call live sparring in BJJ. On your first day, you might spend this time observing or doing light shadow-drilling. If you do participate in live training, remember the power of the "tap." Tapping your partner or the mat signifies that you want to stop. It is a reset button, not a sign of failure. In our culture of humility, we tap to learn and to ensure everyone goes home healthy.

The Mental Game

The physical side of BJJ is only half the battle. The mental shift is where the true transformation happens.