Adults · 6 min read
Your first BJJ class: what to bring and what to expect.
Gi or no-gi, hygiene basics, how warm-ups and drilling work, and why nobody expects you to know anything.
Gi or no-gi?
Ask the academy which class you're coming to. For gi classes, many schools lend you a gi for your first visit. For no-gi, wear a fitted athletic shirt or rash guard and shorts with no zippers or pockets.
What to bring
Water, a towel, flip-flops for walking off the mat, and a hair tie if you need one. Trim your fingernails and toenails, and take off jewelry. That's it.
Hygiene is the one rule everyone cares about
Come in clean, wear clean clothes, and never step on the mat in shoes. If you have any cuts or skin issues, cover them or sit the class out. Your training partners will thank you.
How a class usually runs
Most classes start with a warm-up, then the instructor shows a technique and you drill it with a partner. Many classes end with live rolling (sparring). As a beginner, you can always ask to sit out the rolling or roll lightly with an experienced partner.
Nobody expects you to know anything
Everyone on the mat had a first class. Tap early and often. It's how you stay safe, and nobody thinks less of you. Ask questions. Focus on breathing and moving, not winning.
After class
You'll probably be sore in places you didn't know existed. That's normal. Go back for a second and third class before you decide. The first one is always the hardest.
Ready to try a class?
Compare academies near you and book an intro directly with the school.
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