Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can feel exciting and intimidating all at once. Whether you are a complete beginner or coming from another sport, the idea of stepping onto the mat and learning a new martial art can bring a mix of curiosity and nerves.
At Marcus Soares Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy in Langley, new students are welcomed with a structured, encouraging approach that takes the guesswork out of the process. Guided by Master Marcus Soares, a 9th degree black belt with over 50 years of teaching experience, beginners are taught with care, patience, and precision.
If you are wondering what the first month will look like, here is a week by week breakdown of what to expect during your early journey in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Week 1: Getting Comfortable and Learning the Basics
The first week is all about orientation and comfort. You will not be thrown into intense sparring or complex drills. Instead, the focus is on helping you feel at ease with your surroundings, the academy culture, and the basic movements of Jiu Jitsu.
You will learn how to:
- Tie your belt and wear your uniform properly
- Move safely on the mats
- Shrimp, bridge, and perform other foundational body movements
- Understand basic positions such as guard, mount, and side control
Most importantly, you will begin to understand the flow of a class and how students interact with one another. Respect, patience, and safety are at the core of the training environment.
Expect to leave your first few classes feeling a bit challenged but excited. You may be surprised by how physical even the warmups are, but you will also feel the satisfaction of learning something completely new.
Week 2: Starting to Drill Techniques
By the second week, you will begin working through fundamental techniques with a training partner. These will likely include simple sweeps, guard passes, or escapes from bad positions.
At Marcus Soares Academy, techniques are taught in a clear, methodical way. You will not be overwhelmed with too much information. Instead, each move is broken down step by step, with a strong focus on proper form and timing.
You will also start to feel more physically comfortable on the mat. Movements that felt awkward in week one will begin to feel more natural. You might also notice that your cardio is improving and that your body is adjusting to the demands of training.
You are still not expected to spar or roll unless you feel ready, and your instructor will guide you carefully through this decision.
Week 3: Building Confidence and Consistency
By now, you will begin to notice real progress. You will start to remember the techniques from previous classes and perform them with more confidence. Drilling with partners will feel less mechanical and more like a conversation through movement.
You will likely begin to:
- React quicker during drills
- Ask more specific questions
- Understand how different positions relate to one another
- Develop a basic understanding of timing
If you are ready, you may be introduced to light positional sparring. This is a safe, controlled form of practice where you and your partner work from a specific starting position, such as escaping from mount or holding side control. It is a fantastic way to apply your knowledge without the intensity of full rolling.
Emotionally, this is often the point where students begin to feel “hooked” on Jiu Jitsu. You are gaining confidence, seeing results, and starting to understand the depth of the art.
Week 4: Feeling Like Part of the Team
By the end of your first month, you will feel like a true part of the academy. You will know your instructors, recognize the students, and understand the rhythm of each class. Training will still be challenging, but you will approach each session with more confidence and clarity.
In your fourth week, you will likely:
- Combine multiple movements into short sequences
- Begin to identify when and why a technique works
- Ask smarter questions about timing and pressure
- Begin light rolling if you have not already
At Marcus Soares Academy, your progress is monitored carefully. Master Soares and the assistant instructors are always watching, offering feedback, and helping you improve. You will never feel lost or ignored. Every student matters, regardless of experience level.
Common Questions from New Students
Will I get hurt?
Safety is the top priority. All classes are controlled, and you will train with partners who are taught to look after each other. Injuries are rare, especially in the beginner phase.
What if I am not fit enough?
You do not need to be in shape to start. Jiu Jitsu will help you build strength, flexibility, and cardio naturally over time.
What if I forget the techniques?
Everyone forgets in the beginning. That is why repetition and consistency matter. The more you show up, the more it will stick.
What should I focus on?
Focus on showing up, staying relaxed, and listening to your instructor. You do not need to win anything. Just aim to understand.
What Makes Marcus Soares Academy Different
There are many places to train BJJ, but very few offer the kind of structured, lineage-based instruction found here. Master Marcus Soares is not only a 9th degree black belt, but a lifelong teacher who has coached thousands of students over five decades.
New students are not left to figure things out on their own. The academy provides:
- A welcoming environment with a clear code of conduct
- A structured curriculum designed for all levels
- One-on-one attention to help you refine technique
- Mentorship from one of the most respected instructors in the world
You are not just joining a gym. You are entering a lineage of excellence and integrity.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Your first month of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will challenge you, teach you, and change the way you think about movement, mindset, and personal growth. At Marcus Soares Academy, you will not be rushed or judged. You will be guided, supported, and taught with care.Explore our beginner programs or contact us today to book your first class and begin your journey with confidence.