Stepping into your first Brazilian jiu-jitsu class is an exciting and possibly nerve-wracking experience. For many people, they still need to prove to themselves that they can handle the challenges jiu-jitsu presents, and they aren’t even sure what those challenges are!

You should approach jiu-jitsu in a way that works for you. Some people want to participate in class the same day they set foot in the building. Other people find that taking the time to meet the teacher, watch a class, and ask some questions is really helpful in preparing them to get on the mats. Many schools will be happy to offer you this option because they are passionate about drawing people in and sharing the martial art they love so much.

If you’ve reached a point where you’re ready to dive in, we have a few valuable pointers to share. We hope they will smooth out your experience and allow you to experience jiu-jitsu for the amazing art it is. Read on!

A Few Tips for Before Class

What should you wear?

• The traditional clothing for jiu-jitsu is an outfit called a Gi. It consists of a tough jacket and pants. However, jiu-jitsu can be done without a Gi, and if this is your first class, you usually don’t need to worry about having one. Opt for clothing that is simple and comfortable, like T-shirts, sweatpants, leggings, or board shorts. The main thing to keep in mind here is the simplicity. You never want to wear anything that has loops, baggy fabric, or extra pockets. Toes and fingers can get caught in them, leading to injury. If you decide to continue with jiu-jitsu, you’ll want to invest in a Gi.
• When it comes to protective gear, you can wear pretty much any gear except wrestling shoes. That means ear guards, knee braces, a mouth guard, and a cup are all fine.
• Remove all jewelry and ensure that your toenails and fingernails are all cut short. If you have long hair, put it back in a bun or ponytail to prevent it from getting pulled and tangled.

What to Expect at Your Fist Jiu-Jitsu Class

We recommend you show up a bit early to the class. This will give you the chance to stow your things, introduce yourself to the instructor, and sign a waiver. If you can, do some stretches that you know will help your body be ready.

Let’s begin!

• Most jiu-jitsu classes begin with a group warm up. Some are very light; others involve more intense conditioning. If you want to know what the warmup will be ahead of time, watching a class can be a good option. Generally, jiu-jitsu warm-ups include pushups, running laps, shrimping, forward breakfalls, and backward breakfalls.
• Do not worry if you do not know what the last three warm-ups are or how to do them. Watch what the others do, try to copy them, and ask for help if you need it.
• Don’t try to get it right immediately; nobody does that on their first (or second, or third) class. Jiu-jitsu is about careful, patient, deliberate development. Give yourself time to practice and listen to advice from your instructor or higher belt. Before you know it, you’ll be giving pointers to a newcomer!

Techniques

• This is when you get to the good stuff! Your instructor will pair you up and teach the day’s lesson. Depending on what kind of school you attend, you may be taught a beginner curriculum or do whatever technique is taught that day. As with the warm-up, do your best, learn as much as you can, and have fun. This is your first class, and you are still figuring out if jiu-jitsu is something you want to stick with.