Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can feel exciting and intimidating at once. At Marcus Soares Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, new students are welcomed with a structured, encouraging approach that takes the guesswork out of the process — guided by Marcus Soares, a 9th-degree red belt with over 50 years of teaching. Here is what the first month looks like.
Week 1: getting comfortable and learning the basics
The first week is about orientation and comfort. You will not be thrown into intense sparring. Instead, the focus is on helping you feel at ease with the room, the culture and the basic movements of jiu-jitsu.
- Tie your belt and wear your uniform properly
- Move safely on the mats
- Shrimp, bridge and other foundational movements
- Understand basic positions: guard, mount and side control
You will leave your first classes a little challenged but excited — and surprised by how physical even the warm-ups are.
Week 2: starting to drill techniques
By the second week you begin working through fundamentals with a partner — simple sweeps, guard passes or escapes. Each move is broken down step by step, with a focus on form and timing. Movements that felt awkward in week one start to feel natural, and you are never expected to roll until you feel ready.
Week 3: building confidence and consistency
Now you notice real progress: you remember techniques from previous classes and perform them with more confidence. If you are ready, you may be introduced to light positional sparring — a safe, controlled drill from a set starting position. This is often the point where students get hooked.
Week 4: feeling like part of the team
By the end of the month you know your instructors, recognise the other students and understand the rhythm of each class. You begin combining movements into short sequences, identifying when and why a technique works, and light rolling if you have not already. Your progress is monitored carefully — no one is left lost or ignored.
Common questions from new students
Will I get hurt? Safety is the top priority, and classes are controlled. Do I need to be fit? No — jiu-jitsu builds your strength, flexibility and cardio over time. What if I forget the techniques? Everyone does at first; repetition and showing up are what make it stick. Focus on staying relaxed and listening to your instructor — you do not need to win anything.
Want to try it on the mat?
Two weeks of unlimited classes for $29. No experience needed.