What to Expect During Your First Jiu-Jitsu Class

If you were to ask me what I remember of my first BJJ class, I probably could not give you a definitive answer. But the one thing I do remember is how nervous I was because it was way out of my comfort zone. Like trying anything new for the first time, BJJ can be intimidating and scary because you have no idea what to expect. What we see in pictures and videos could be totally different from the experience itself. Nonetheless, it can be nerve wracking.

A lot of my friends who are interested in trying a class often ask me what they can expect during their first time training. From what I have experienced training at various academies in the states and internationally, most BJJ classes are structured the same way:

1.  The bowing in: Students line up by belt rank and bow in to signify the start of the class.

2.  The warm up: This can be a series of calisthenics and/or drills regularly used in training (shrimping, sprawls, sit outs, etc.).

3.  Technique breakdown and drills: This is where you learn a move or sequence of moves for the day. Usually, the technique is broken down into parts and the instructor will have students drill with their partners before moving on to the next technique that builds upon the first. This drilling/instructional part of class takes up the most time, as drilling is essential in converting techniques into muscle memory.

4.  Sparring: This is the live training portion of class where students are able to practice the techniques they learned during class. Sometimes this sparring session may start as positional, starting in the position (mount, side control, closed guard, etc.) that was just taught. Other times, students will start from standing or on their knees for a live match. Not all academies allow newbies to spar until they have some mat time under their belt to reduce the potential accidental injuries from occurring due to inexperience and lack of technical knowledge.

5.  The bow out: Class will end the way that it began, with students lining up by rank. The instructors will say a few encouraging words (otherwise known as the “mat chat”) before ending the class and bowing out. 

Most seasoned students who have been around for a bit are very helpful and will often help ease any newcomer into the routine. If you can keep an open mind, not have any expectations of yourself (and what you can and cannot do), and not get discouraged because you “don’t get it” yet, you will have a great time and get a nice workout in the process. If you haven’t given up after your first class, give it at least six months to decide whether or not BJJ is something that is right for you. You may end up falling in love with it like the rest of us! Like and share this with someone you know who wants to give BJJ a try!