Are you ready to take your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class? If so, you’re likely feeling a bit nervous and intimidated. After all, BJJ is a complex martial art that involves body locks, chokeholds, and ground fighting. But don’t worry–there are some simple pro tips you can follow to make your first BJJ class a success. Here are the top 7 pro tips on how to survive your first BJJ class (without getting embarrassed!).
1. Arrive Early and Introduce Yourself
Arriving early to your first BJJ class is a must. Not only will it give you time to familiarize yourself with the gym, meet the instructor and other students, but it will also give you a chance to introduce yourself. Introductions are important in BJJ, as it helps build camaraderie and trust between you and your fellow students.
2. Watch and Listen
One of the best ways to survive your first BJJ class is to watch and listen. Pay close attention to what your instructor is teaching, and take notes if you need to. This will help you better understand the techniques and concepts that you are learning. Additionally, take the time to observe the other students and how they are performing the techniques. This will give you a better idea of how to execute the movements correctly.
3. Take It Slow
When it comes to BJJ, it is important to take it slow. You may be tempted to go all out and try to show off your skills, but this is a surefire way to get injured and embarrassed. Instead, focus on learning the techniques and concepts, and gradually build up your speed and intensity as you progress. This will help you to stay safe, and also ensure that you are able to learn the material more effectively.
4. Have the Right Gear
Having the right gear is essential for a successful BJJ class. You’ll need a Gi, a rash guard, and a pair of BJJ shorts if you’re training no-gi as well.
The traditional uniform is a Gi, which is a loose-fitting jacket and pants made of cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. You should also wear a rash guard as it can protect your skin from potential irritation.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes
Making mistakes is an inevitable part of learning in BJJ. It’s important to not be afraid of making mistakes when learning the sport, as it is an important part of the learning process.
When you make a mistake in BJJ, it’s important to take a step back and analyze what went wrong. This kind of analysis can help you identify the areas where you need to improve, and allow you to focus on those areas in your next training session.
6. Be Respectful
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, respect is paramount. It is important to always treat your training partners with respect, no matter their rank or experience. This means that you should always listen to instructions from your instructor, and show respect for their decisions. It also means that you should be courteous to your training partners, and never make them feel uncomfortable or disrespected.
It is also important to be respectful of your opponent when competing. No matter the outcome of the match, it is important to shake hands, bow or salute your opponent, and thank them for the match. This is a sign of respect and sportsmanship, and will be appreciated by your opponent.
7. Have Fun
Above all else, make sure you’re having fun. BJJ is a great way to challenge yourself and meet new people. Enjoy the experience, and don’t take yourself too seriously.
Conclusion
BJJ is a great way to get in shape, stay healthy, and have fun. Learning the basics is important in order to have a successful and enjoyable experience. By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a successful and enjoyable first BJJ class. So don’t be afraid – just go for it!
If you’re looking for a premier BJJ gym in Vancouver, look no further than Marcus Soares Brazilian Jiu Jitsu! Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, our gym is open for all levels of experience, including beginner and advanced classes. Our classes are designed to help our students build strength, technique, and confidence. We also offer open mat sessions for our students to practice and hone their skills. Let us help you learn the fundamentals of BJJ and develop your skills and techniques. Come join us and see what makes us the premier BJJ gym!
