From boosting your strength and endurance to learning techniques you can use for self-defense, enrolling in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class can give you many benefits. But as in any first attempt to anything, attending your first class can be nerve-racking.
In this article, we are giving you a compressive discussion about what to expect in your first BJJ class and how to survive it.
Know what to wear. Typically, you’re not required to wear a BJJ uniform on your first class — comfortable clothing like shirts, board shorts, and sweatpants will do. Be careful not to wear garments with a baggy fabric or extra pockets or any piece of jewelry that may cause harm to others. You also have the option to wear protective gear like knee braces and ear guards.
Be prepared. Apart from proper attire, you should also prepare other stuff like a towel and a bottle of water beforehand. It will be also helpful to have a checklist of what you need for your first class. Refer to any instructions given by your BJJ mentor or academy.
Observe proper hygiene. You will get pretty sweaty when you enroll in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class, so it’s a must to observe proper hygiene. Wear deodorant. Make sure your fingernails and toenails are well-groomed. Also, tie up your hair if you have a long one.
Arrive early. In your first class, you’ll need to introduce yourself to the instructor (where you’ll often be asked to sign a waiver). Set aside time for this one and arrive a couple of minutes early. If you’re still not familiar with your school, you can also come earlier to check the premises and the facilities out.
The training classes are hard to practice for beginners, there is a Training PDF, which can help you in all round training, you can check for Jim Wendler 531 Forever PDF here. I hope this training will help you.
Set your expectations. BJJ classes are typically divided into three parts: warmup, drilling, and sparring. During warmup, expect to do a mix of bodyweight, stretching, and jogging exercises. It is also in this phase where you’ll be taught how to fall over safely, so you have to pay attention. BJJ techniques will then be introduced in the drilling section. Again, focus and try to replicate what your mentor is doing. The sparring section allows students to practice what they have learned during the class.
Be humble and open to learning. Bear in mind that you are there as an eager learner. Be humble and learn how to embrace new things. Be professional and respect not just your instructor but your fellow students and BJJ enthusiasts as well.
Never take shortcuts. Be diligent when it comes to learning different BJJ methods. As early as your first class, you have to have this mindset: don’t take shortcuts and learn the process. As in any other form of martial arts, the fundamentals are necessary in order to master more complicated techniques.
Bear in mind the benefits you will reap. As mentioned, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers several benefits; it can help you enhance different skills — physical, mental, and even emotional. So don’t get overwhelmed by whatever it is that you’ll learn on your first day. Always go back to the very intent of why you enrolled in the first place.
Dominion BJJ is a training center for Muay Thai, judo, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Contact us today to learn more about our programs!
