The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2024.

Thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)? Or maybe you’ve already started and want to speed up your learning curve. You’ve come to the right place. My ultimate beginner’s guide to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu cuts through the fluff and gives you the real deal on how to start BJJ. There are no timewasters here – just honest, firsthand advice to help you hit the ground running in your BJJ journey. Let’s dive in and explore this challenging but incredibly rewarding martial art together!

What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? Unraveling the Gentle Art

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that specializes in grappling and ground fighting (called “rolling”). Unlike striking-based arts, BJJ emphasizes control over harm, allowing practitioners to adapt their response to the situation. While BJJ techniques can cause significant damage, if necessary, the art’s versatility enables practitioners to protect themselves while tailoring their actions to the severity of the threat.

The Essence of BJJ

BJJ is often compared to chess due to its strategic nature. As you advance, your repertoire of techniques grows, allowing for more complex moves and countermoves. This strategic depth sets BJJ apart from martial arts that rely primarily on one-two-three striking techniques to get the job done.

The Learning Curve

As a karate black belt, my first BJJ class was eye-opening. On the ground, my previous martial arts experience proved almost useless, highlighting BJJ’s unique approach to combat.

In BJJ, as beginners we are coached to focus on survival. I still spend most of my time “not winning, which can be frustrating but at the same time is teaching me super valuable ego control. This is what we call “embracing the suck” – finding joy in the challenge and your own initial lack of skill. It’s not for everyone, as the frustration level can be high, but it’s a crucial part of each individual’s journey.

Self-Defense and Physical Jiu Jitsu Benefits

BJJ offers practical self-defense skills and an intense full-body workout. A common saying in the community is that by blue belt, you should be able to protect yourself against most untrained and unarmed attackers. However, this expectation comes with caveats. Factors like age and athleticism play significant roles in one’s ability to apply BJJ effectively in self-defense situations.

As you progress in this martial art and observe both your own skills and those of others develop, you’ll begin to understand how this claim can hold true. The journey reveals the potential of BJJ as a powerful self-defense system.

The Mental Game

BJJ is as mentally challenging as it is physically. You’re constantly problem-solving under pressure, learning to stay calm in uncomfortable situations.

The BJJ Community

Despite its intensity, the BJJ community is known for its supportiveness. The shared experience of this challenging journey creates strong bonds among practitioners.

As with most relationships, these bonds are forged over time. In the beginning, I made fast friends with other newbies, and we shared our stories of sore muscles and how hard but fun the art was. It took a while for some of the higher belts to warm up to me. I think this is normal.

More people quit than stick with Jiu-jitsu because it is hard – just like everything else. I found that once people saw I was in this for the long haul, others began to open up to me, and that’s when I started to feel a real sense of belonging to this special community.

BJJ is a transformative journey that teaches patience, humility, and perseverance. It’s tough, but the rewards are immense for those who stick with it.

Getting Started: Your First Steps into BJJ

Alright, let’s outline how to take your first steps into jiu-jitsu. The first thing to do is figure out where you will train.

Finding the Right BJJ School for You

Finding the right BJJ school is crucial for your journey. Look for a welcoming atmosphere, experienced instructors, and a schedule that fits your lifestyle. Schools vary in their focus:

– Sport BJJ vs. self-defense emphasis

– Gi and No-Gi training options

– Competition focus

– Kid-friendliness

– Age demographics

Your choice depends on personal preference. I prefer schools balancing BJJ self-defense and sport BJJ, prioritizing self-defense for white to blue belts. This approach ensures a solid foundation in real-world skills before exploring sport-specific techniques.

This is super important! When choosing a BJJ gym, look for one with a well-structured beginner program that lasts at least six months.

A key feature of the beginner program should be a gradual introduction to rolling. “Why?”, you might say. “Isn’t this why I came here – to get better at grappling?” Well, the answer is yes, but you also want to make sure you don’t get injured in the first month either.

Therefore, in my opinion, the better schools, have beginners focus on technique without live sparring, allowing the newbies to acclimate to the mat safely. Then as we progress, we’ll move to positional rolling under controlled conditions. This approach minimizes the risk of injury when you’re just starting out.

While most instructors acknowledge that minor injuries like jammed fingers or sore elbows are common in BJJ, a good beginner program helps prevent more serious issues. So when you check out potential schools, be sure to ask about the curriculum and progression for new students – it’s an important factor in choosing the right school for your BJJ journey.

Take advantage of free trial classes to find the best fit for your goals and learning style. The right academy is one where you feel comfortable and motivated to keep showing up. Your choice will significantly impact your BJJ experience, so invest time in finding the best match.

Your First Class

Now, what should you expect in your first class? Well, prepare to feel a bit like a fish out of water – but don’t worry, we’ve all been there! You’ll likely start with warm-up exercises, including what seems like endless shrimping (more on that later), move on to technique demonstrations, and finish with some light positional rolling (sparring).

Important: Don’t try to memorize everything. Focus on absorbing the general movements and, most importantly, have fun!

Let’s talk gear.

You don’t need to break the bank, but there are a few essentials:

1. A good BJJ Gi – This is different from a karate Gi, as it’s typically heavier and more durable. Make sure it fits well! The sleeves should reach your wrists when your arms are extended, and the pants should hit just above your ankles. I bought my first gi from my school – most schools will sell uniforms – and this allowed me to try it on, so I got the right fit.

2. A rashguard – This tight-fitting shirt is worn under your Gi or for no-gi training. It wicks sweat and prevents skin-to-skin contact, making rolling more hygienic and comfortable. You’ll use it for both Gi and No-Gi training.

3. A mouthguard—I always wear one when training, but you will find many do not. For me, it’s essential. It will only take one accidental elbow, knee, or head to mess up my teeth or tongue. I don’t wear it for private lessons, where I am working with a black belt, and everything is very controlled, but for regular classes, it’s a must.

4. Bring a pair of flip-flops (or any easy on/off slipper) to wear when you are not on the mat, especially when you go into the locker or bathroom.

5. Optional: Protective cup (for men) – I was used to wearing one for karate, but I’ve found I don’t need it for BJJ. I found it very uncomfortable while rolling. It’s a personal choice, but many BJJ practitioners don’t use one.

Dive deeper NOW and learn all about the essential gear for BJJ beginners

Basic BJJ Etiquette.

BJJ has its own culture, and respecting it will make your journey much smoother:

• Always bow when entering or leaving the mat

• Keep your nails trimmed and your Gi clean (nobody wants to roll with a human scratching post)

• Pay attention during instruction – don’t talk to others while your instructor is speaking and sit up. (Sometimes you are tired and want to lie prone – don’t do it.)

• Tap early, tap often – there’s no shame in it!

Pro Tip: Occasionally, you may find yourself in a more advanced class with higher-ranked belts where complex techniques (to you they are complex, anyway) are being demonstrated. Typically, after the instructor’s demonstration, they open the floor for questions. Since most “white belt” questions are very basic, (and thus likely to waste everyone else’s time), it is considered a show of respect to hold off with your questions until the group breaks into pairs to practice. At that point, you can call the instructor over to address your “white belt” question individually.

Remember, everyone starts somewhere. Embrace the journey, stay consistent, and keep showing up.

BJJ 101: Key Terms Every Beginner Should Know

As a BJJ beginner, I encountered a whole new language. While techniques are best introduced and learned through live demonstration or video followed by drilling, knowing some basic jiu jitsu terminology will help you get started. After a few weeks, these concepts will become familiar, but at first, they can be confusing. I remember struggling to just ask questions initially because the terminology was so unfamiliar. Here are some key terms to help you over the initial learning curve:

Base

In BJJ, like in all martial arts, a good base is crucial. It’s about how you position your body to stay balanced and stable, whether standing or on the ground. A solid base makes you harder to knock down or sweep, and it’s important for both attack and defense.

I’ve had many “aha” moments in training. Often, a small change in how I position my body can make a technique suddenly work much better. Seemingly tiny adjustments in my “base” can make a big difference.

Developing a strong base is an ongoing process in BJJ. It’s not just about learning the right positions; it’s about making them feel natural. As you progress, a good base will help you save energy, react faster, and perform techniques more effectively. Whether you’re defending, attacking, or moving between positions, your base is the foundation of success in BJJ.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Basics: Fundamental Positions

In early BJJ training, you’ll learn three key positions, plus the technical stand-up:

1. Mount: You sit on top of your opponent’s torso.

2. Side Control: You pin your opponent while lying across their body.

3. Guard: You’re on your back, using your legs to control your opponent.

As a beginner, you’ll spend a lot of time learning how to get into these positions, stay in them, and escape from them. Mastering these basic jiu jitsu techniques for beginners will set you up for more advanced techniques later.

Stand in Base (Technical Stand-up)

The “stand in base” or technical stand-up is a key move in BJJ. It’s how you safely get up from the ground while staying ready to defend yourself. Here’s how it works:

1. Start seated on the ground.

2. Put one hand on the mat behind you.

3. Bring the foot on the same side close to your body.

4. Use your other arm as a shield in front of you.

5. Push off your hand and foot to stand up in one smooth motion.

6. End in a balanced stance, ready to move.

This technique keeps you safe from attacks in self-defense situations and helps avoid guard pulls in sport BJJ. Making this your default way of standing up will serve you well throughout your BJJ journey. It’s not just about getting up; it’s about getting up smartly, always ready for what’s next.

Mount

Mount is a strong position where you sit on top of your opponent’s torso. Your legs are on either side of their body, with your hips on their chest or stomach. It’s one of the best positions in BJJ because:

1. In self-defense, you can strike effectively.

2. In sport BJJ, you can set up various submissions.

3. You can use your body weight to control your opponent.

4. It limits your opponent’s ability to move or defend.

From mount, you can try submissions like arm bars or chokes, or move to other strong positions. If you’re on the bottom, your job is to try to escape or at least get to a safer position like guard.

Side Control

Side control, also called side mount, is another dominant position. Here’s what it looks like:

1. You lie across (perpendicular to) your opponent’s body, chest-to-chest.

2. Your legs are spread out for balance and control.

3. You aim to keep your opponent’s shoulders flat on the ground.

4. You also control their hips to limit their movement.

Side control is valuable because it offers:

1. Chances for submissions

2. Easy transitions to other strong positions like mount

3. The ability to tire out your opponent with pressure

For the person on the bottom, side control is tough to escape from. It takes skill and sometimes explosive movements to create space and try to recover guard.

As a beginner, you’ll often find yourself mount and in side control, both on top and bottom. You will spend a ton of time in these positions early in your BJJ journey.

Guard

Guard is a unique and fundamental position in BJJ. When you first start out, it might not seem like it, but over time you will learn that being on your back is definitely a position of strength. Here’s what you need to know:

1. In guard, you’re on your back using your legs to control your opponent.

2. There are many types of guard, each with its own strengths.

3. As a beginner, you’ll mainly learn three types:

a) Closed Guard: Your legs encircle your opponent’s waist, ankles locked behind their back, knees squeezing and pulling them forward and down. Your arms and hands remain free to defend against strikes, maintain control, and initiate submission attempts.

b) Open Guard: Your legs aren’t wrapped around your opponent, but you use your feet, legs, and sometimes hands to maintain control and create distance. This allows for more movement and different attacks.

c) Half Guard: You’ve trapped one of your opponent’s legs between your own. This can be both defensive and offensive, letting you work towards sweeps or submissions.

4. “Passing the guard” is when the top person tries to get past the bottom person’s legs to reach a more dominant position, like side control or mount. The person on bottom aims to prevent the pass and might try to sweep (reverse positions) or submit their opponent.

Submissions and Defensive Techniques

Submissions are ways to make your opponent give up. They usually work by putting pressure on joints or stopping blood flow. Here are some common types:

1. Chokes and Strangles:

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), the terms “choke” and “strangle” are often used interchangeably, but there is a technical difference between the two:

Choke:

– Targets the airway (trachea)

– Restricts air flow to the lungs

– Causes discomfort and eventual loss of consciousness due to lack of oxygen

– Example: Guillotine choke, which compresses the front of the neck

Strangle:

– Targets the blood vessels in the neck (carotid arteries)

– Restricts blood flow to the brain

– Causes rapid loss of consciousness due to reduced oxygen to the brain

– Example: Rear naked choke, which compresses the sides of the neck

Key differences:

– Mechanism: Chokes affect breathing, strangles affect blood flow

– Speed of effect: Strangles typically work faster than chokes

– Discomfort level: Chokes often feel more uncomfortable or painful

– Recovery time: Recovery from a strangle is usually quicker than from a choke

In practice, many BJJ techniques combine elements of both choking and strangling, which is why the terms are often used interchangeably in casual conversation. However, understanding the distinction can be important for refining technique and for safety considerations in training and practical usage in self-defense.

2. Joint locks: These put pressure on a joint. Examples include armbars and kimuras.

Defensive techniques are just as important. They include:

1. Escapes: Ways to get out of bad positions or submission attempts.

2. Sweeps: Techniques to flip positions when you’re on the bottom, putting you on top.

3. Guard retention: Strategies to keep your guard when an opponent tries to pass it.

BJJ is about using leverage smartly, not just strength. As you learn these concepts, especially in the beginning, don’t worry about mastering everything. Instead, focus on understanding the basic ideas. With time and practice, you’ll begin to see how they work together on the mat.

Key Takeaway

BJJ is a journey of constant learning. These terms and concepts are just the beginning. As you train, you’ll deepen your understanding and discover how rich and complex BJJ really is. Remember, everyone starts as a beginner. Stay patient, keep showing up, and enjoy the process of growth and discovery in your BJJ journey.

The BJJ Belt System Explained

Let’s dive into the BJJ belt system. For adults (16+), the belt progression is:

1. White Belt

2. Blue Belt

3. Purple Belt

4. Brown Belt

5. Black Belt

White through Brown belts each have four stripes. For example, when you get your first blue belt, you have no stripes. You then progress through four stripes and test for your purple belt. Aha! Now you can see why it can take ten years to get a black belt!

Kids (typically under 16) have a more detailed system to keep them motivated and engaged. While it varies between academies, it includes white, grey, yellow, orange, and green belts, often with combinations like grey/white or yellow/black to mark progress between major belts.

Now, let’s zoom in on the white belt stage. This is ground zero for everyone, regardless of age or athletic background. The primary goal at this level? Survival. Yes, you heard that right. Your first mission isn’t about fancy submissions or gravity-defying sweeps. It’s about learning to defend yourself, understanding basic positions, and most importantly, knowing when to tap out.

As a white belt, you’ll be focusing on:

1. Basic positions and how to maintain them

2. Fundamental escapes, especially BJJ escapes for beginners, to get out of bad situations

3. Simple basic BJJ submissions and when to use them

4. Proper training etiquette and mat safety

Surviving on the mat means defending against submissions, maintaining proper posture in disadvantageous positions, and conserving energy throughout. Initially counterintuitive, I realized that mastering survival creates the “space” for me to attack and submit. In other words, learning how to survive is the bedrock of advanced BJJ capabilities.

Time expectations? Here’s the deal: everyone’s journey is different. Some folks might spend a year at white belt; others might spend three or more. Factors like age, training frequency, and natural aptitude play a role. If you’re starting BJJ later in life, or you’re out of shape its gonna take relatively longer just like mastering any other physical activity would.

Bottom line: don’t sweat it!

Many people begin in their 30s, 40s, or even later. I started in my 60s! I was in great shape when I began my jiu-jitsu journey, but I am well aware that my progress is different a 30-year-old who can train more often and has a younger body than me.

The most important thing to remember is this: BJJ is a personal journey. Your only real competition is yourself. Whether it takes you 2 years or double that to move beyond the white belt doesn’t matter. What matters is that you’re learning, growing, and definitely having fun along the way.

My advice is that you enjoy your white belt days. Focus on survival, show up consistently, and don’t be afraid to tap. These early days are laying the foundation for your entire BJJ journey.

Sport BJJ vs. Self-Defense BJJ: Key Differences in Approach

While Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has its roots in self-defense, it has evolved into both a martial art and a competitive sport. The core principles remain the same, but the focus and application can differ significantly between sport BJJ and self-defense-oriented BJJ.

Sport BJJ is tailored for competition under specific rules in a controlled setting. It prioritizes point-scoring techniques and submissions within these parameters. Notably, it excludes strikes, allowing practitioners to develop intricate guards, complex sweeps, and elaborate submission setups that may be time-consuming to execute. This focus can leave practitioners vulnerable in real-world self-defense scenarios where strikes are a threat. Competition strategies, such as pulling guard or waiting for an opponent to engage (You may have seen videos of competitors where one person just sits down at the beginning of the match and waits for the other to attack), are not suited for street confrontations.

In contrast, self-defense BJJ focuses on techniques and strategies for real-world confrontations. Self-defense BJJ always keeps striking in mind, both in terms of defending against strikes and using strikes to get the opponent to the ground (like a front kick or jab to set up a takedown). Techniques are simpler and more direct, prioritizing personal safety and escape over scoring points or achieving dominant positions for their own sake.

Bottom line: your approach to jiu-jitsu is totally different when someone tries to punch you in the face!

The training methods can also differ. Self-defense training includes more scenario-based drills, like defending against different grabs or chokes, practicing against “sucker punches” and even multiple attackers.

Many BJJ academies teach both sport and self-defense elements, acknowledging the merits of each approach. This balanced approach aims to develop well-rounded practitioners equipped for both competition and practical self-defense situations.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu distinctively integrates self-defense principles into its core curriculum.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu: The Self-Defense Roots of BJJ

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, the precursor to modern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), was developed by the Gracie family in Brazil, with a strong emphasis on practical self-defense. This focus stems from the art’s origins and the family’s experiences.

In the early 20th century, Hélio Gracie (pronounced with the “h” silent, as in Eh-Lee-Oh), one of the founding fathers of BJJ, adapted the Japanese martial art of Judo (then known as Kano Jiu-Jitsu) to suit his smaller frame. Hélio, who was physically frail, modified techniques to rely more on leverage and timing rather than strength and speed. This adaptation made the art more accessible and effective for smaller practitioners against larger opponents – a key consideration in real-world self-defense scenarios.

The Gracie family honed their techniques through real-world challenges, particularly in “vale tudo” (anything goes) matches. These no-rules contests demonstrated Gracie Jiu-Jitsu’s effectiveness against diverse fighting styles and larger opponents. And it ensured Gracie Jiu-Jitsu remained grounded in functional techniques for actual confrontations, transcending theoretical or dojo-constrained approaches.

For a compelling showcase of BJJ’s real-world application, the original Gracie challenge videos are instructive. As an experienced karate practicioner, it was eye-opening for me to see practitioners from various martial arts backgrounds swiftly overcome by Gracie jiu jitsu techniques. Here is one example of a Gracie Challenge video.

Hélio and his brothers also taught jiu-jitsu to law enforcement and military personnel, further emphasizing the need for techniques that could work in high-stress, potentially life-threatening situations. This influenced the development of techniques that could be applied quickly and effectively, often from disadvantageous positions.

A key principle of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the concept of self-defense from the ground. Recognizing that many fights end up on the ground, and that the ground can be a dangerous place for the untrained, the Gracie’s developed a system that allowed a practitioner to defend themselves effectively from their back – a position often considered helpless in other martial arts.

The Gracie self-defense curriculum includes techniques for common attacks such as headlocks, bear hugs, and shirt grabs, as well as defenses against punches and kicks. It also emphasizes awareness, de-escalation, and the legal and ethical considerations of self-defense.

While modern BJJ has evolved to include a significant sport aspect, many schools, particularly those closely associated with the Gracie family, maintain a strong focus on self-defense in their curriculum. They often teach these techniques separately from the sport-oriented classes, ensuring that students understand the differences between competition and real-world application.

This self-defense foundation, which continues to influence BJJ today, is a testament to art’s adaptability. It reminds practitioners of the art’s practical roots and equips them with valuable skills for self-defense and sports competition, making them feel empowered and versatile.

Gi vs. No-Gi Jiu Jitsu: Key Differences and Approaches

The practice of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in two main forms, with a Gi (the traditional uniform) and without (No-Gi), significantly impacts the game. While the core principles remain the same, the presence or absence of the Gi plays a crucial role in the game’s dynamics.

Gi BJJ, with its strategic use of the uniform for control and submissions, engages practitioners in a thoughtful game. The ability to grip the collar, sleeves, and pants creates a multitude of options for control and attacks, leading to a slower, more methodical game where grip fighting plays a crucial role. The friction created by the Gi also tends to slow down movements, allowing for more static positions and intricate techniques.

In contrast, No-Gi BJJ relies solely on grips on the body itself. Without a Gi to hold onto, practitioners focus more on controlling the opponent’s body through hooks, under hooks, and overlooks. This typically results in a faster-paced, more dynamic game. The lack of friction also means maintaining control can be more challenging, leading to frequent position changes.

Submissions in Gi BJJ often involve using the uniform, such as collar chokes or the Gi skirt, to trap limbs. While no-Gi submissions include many of the same joint locks and chokes, they focus more on submissions that don’t require cloth grips, like arm triangles or guillotines.

It’s worth noting that many BJJ practitioners train in both Gi and No-Gi, as each style can complement the other and contribute to a well-rounded game. Whether you prefer Gi or No-Gi (or both) often comes down to personal preference, your specific goals in BJJ, and the focus of your gym. Both offer rich, complex grappling systems that can provide a lifetime of learning and growth.

Typical BJJ school curriculum, focusing on the beginner’s experience:

A well-rounded Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu school often offers a balanced curriculum that incorporates Gi and No-Gi training and elements of sport BJJ and self-defense. While programs vary between schools, most offer a structured beginner’s class alongside more advanced sessions. Many schools also provide specialized courses such as women’s self-defense and children’s jiu-jitsu.

A typical beginner’s class follows a consistent structure designed to gradually build skills and confidence. Classes usually begin with a warm-up, followed by technique instruction. This technical portion often includes both self-defense scenarios and sports BJJ techniques. Self-defense training might involve practicing escapes from common attacks like grabs, chokes, or being pinned against a wall.

After technique instruction, classes often move into drilling. This is where students pair up to practice the techniques they have been taught repeatedly, helping to ingrain the movements and build muscle memory. Following the drilling section, many classes incorporate live training or “rolling.”

For beginners, this live training often takes the form of positional sparring. In positional sparring, partners start from a specific position (like one person in guard and the other trying to pass) and practice applying techniques in a more resistant but controlled environment. This approach allows newcomers to experience the dynamic nature of BJJ without the overwhelming complexity of full sparring.

As students progress, they may participate in more open rolling sessions, starting from standing or an agreed-upon position and grappling freely. However, beginners are often encouraged to focus more on positional sparring for safety and learning efficiency until they’ve developed a solid foundation of techniques and body awareness.

Many schools also offer private lessons as an optional supplement to group classes. These one-on-one sessions allow for more personalized instruction and can be particularly beneficial for beginners looking to accelerate their learning or address specific challenges.

This structured approach to beginner’s classes ensures a safe, progressive learning environment in which new students can gradually build their skills and confidence in both self-defense and the sports aspects of BJJ.

Common Beginner Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Alright, BJJ newcomer, let’s break down some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them:

1. Using Strength vs. Technique

As a white belt, use the strength you have, but understand that your goal is to develop technique. Stronger people may overpower you at first – that’s normal. Focus on learning efficient movements and proper leverage. In time, you’ll rely more on skill than strength.

2. Ego Management

Leave your ego at the door. You’ll tap often and may feel like you’re not progressing. This “embracing the suck” phase is crucial. Celebrate small victories and your partners’ successes. Resist advising a white belt – you don’t know as much as you think. Stay humble and curious.

3. Injury Prevention and Communication

Talk to your training partners! Discuss how you’ll work together during drills or rolls. Speak up if something feels off. Remember, you don’t know what you don’t know—you might unknowingly put your hand or foot in a vulnerable position. Develop awareness to protect yourself from common bjj injuries like sprained fingers, wrists, or ankles.

4. Tapping Early and Often

This is your ticket to a long, injury-free BJJ journey. Learn to recognize danger and tap before it’s too late. There’s no prize for being the last to tap in class.

5. Balancing Training and Recovery

BJJ is addictive, but more isn’t always better, especially if you’re older. Listen to your body. If you’re constantly sore or tired, dial back. Incorporate rest days, proper nutrition, and perhaps some light stretching or yoga.

6. Good Hygiene is Non-Negotiable

Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for two distinct yet equally important reasons. First, it’s a matter of etiquette and respect for your training partners and instructors. No one wants to train with someone who has offensive body odor or dirty gear.

• Wash your Gi after every session.
• Trim your nails.
• If possible, shower before class and always after. Use antimicrobial soap. Treat any skin condition promptly. Wear deodorant.
• While it sometimes feels like a pain in the butt, I make myself get my mouthguard and give it a brush at the same time I’m brushing my teeth – and I try to do this at least twice per week. Each time, I remind myself that I’m doing this for my training partners.
• I also try to be mindful of what I eat and have eaten before training. That garlicky Chinese food you had for lunch. Your training partners don’t want to smell it on the mat. Mouthwash and a toothbrush in your gym bag are best, but mints are better than nothing.

Second, and more critically, good hygiene practices are vital for preventing the spread of skin infections, which can pose serious health risks. BJJ’s close-contact nature and interaction with training mats make practitioners particularly vulnerable to these issues.

Staph infections are a significant concern in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu due to the frequent skin-to-skin contact and interaction with training mats. To minimize the risk, practitioners should adopt rigorous hygiene practices.

• Always shower with antibacterial soap immediately after training, paying particular attention to any cuts or abrasions.
• Wash your hands frequently, especially before and after class. It’s crucial to launder your gi, including the belt, after every training session to eliminate bacteria.
• Never share personal items like towels or razors. Inspect your skin regularly for unusual marks or sores and seek medical attention promptly if you suspect an infection.

Understanding and implementing good hygiene practices addresses the social and health aspects of training, ensuring a more pleasant and safer experience for everyone on the mats.

7. Age Considerations:

Starting BJJ later in life presents unique challenges. Older practitioners typically require more recovery time and face slower injury healing. Harrison Ford’s fitness philosophy, shared in his 70s, resonates here: when asked about his key to staying fit, he simply stated, “Don’t get injured.” This wisdom is particularly relevant for mature BJJ practitioners.

Adjust your training intensity and frequency to suit your body’s needs, prioritizing consistency over high-intensity sessions. This approach allows for steady progress while minimizing injury risks, ensuring a sustainable and enjoyable BJJ journey regardless of your starting age.

8. Awareness of the Unknown:

As a beginner, you’re in uncharted territory. Be extra cautious with unfamiliar techniques. Pay attention to safety tips. When in doubt, ask questions. It’s better to pause and clarify than risk injury due to misunderstanding.

By navigating these challenges, you’ll set yourself up for a more enjoyable and sustainable BJJ journey. Remember, jiu-jitsu is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay patient, stay aware, and keep showing up. Your future self will thank you for the solid foundation you’re building now!

BJJ Gym Etiquette: Respecting the Dojo and Your Training Partners

Understanding and following proper gym etiquette is crucial in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It demonstrates respect for your instructors, training partners, and art. Good etiquette also contributes to a safe and positive training environment. Here are some critical aspects of BJJ gym etiquette:

• Make sure you know and follow your school’s traditions regarding lining up for the class start, ending, and bowing when entering and leaving the mat: These traditional gestures are steeped in Brazilian jiu jitsu history and demonstrate respect for the training space and your fellow practitioners. These moments are also an opportunity to prepare for training or reflect on your session mentally.

• Volunteering to clean mats: Offering to help disinfect mats after class shows consideration for your gym community and helps maintain a hygienic training environment.

• Always wear slippers in the bathroom: This practice prevents harmful bacteria from transferring to the mats from bathroom floors. It’s a simple yet effective way to reduce the risk of skin infections.

• Paying attention during instruction: Listen fully when the instructor speaks. This shows respect and ensures you don’t miss important details that could improve your technique or safety.

• Maintaining proper posture during instruction: Avoid lying down or reclining during demonstrations. Sit or stand attentively, which shows respect and helps you stay focused on the lesson.

• Personal hygiene: Always train in a clean gi, with trimmed nails and tied-back long hair. Good hygiene is crucial for your health and that of your training partners.

• Tapping early and often: This isn’t just about safety; it’s about respecting your partner’s techniques and fostering a positive learning environment.

Adhering to these etiquette guidelines contributes to a respectful, safe, and enjoyable training atmosphere for everyone at your BJJ gym.

Supplementary Conditioning for BJJ: Enhancing Your Physical Readiness

As you dive into BJJ, you’ll discover that it uniquely challenges your body. While mat time is crucial, supplementary conditioning can help prepare your body for the demands of BJJ and potentially reduce the risk of injury. Here’s how to approach this aspect of your training:

Initially, focus on learning and surviving rather than adding supplemental training. Your body needs time to adjust to BJJ’s new movements and stresses. Consider light cardio to prepare for future rolling sessions, but don’t overdo it.

As you progress and your body adjusts, gradually consider adding in BJJ-specific strength and conditioning exercises. Core strength exercises like planks and Russian twists can improve your stability and power in guard positions. Grip strength work, such as farmer’s walks and hanging exercises, can enhance your control during grappling. High-intensity interval Training (HIIT) can help mimic the burst-and-recover nature of BJJ, improving your ability to handle intense grappling sessions.

However, balance is critical, especially if you’re an older athlete or new to intense physical activity. Prioritize recovery by listening to your body and allowing ample rest between sessions. Start slowly, gradually introducing supplemental exercises to avoid overtraining. Remember, quality trumps quantity—perfect form in fewer repetitions is far better than poor form in many.

Mobility exercises have been and continue to be part of my warm-up regimen. My tight hips always seem to get in my way on the mat. There are a ton of good mobility videos online. Look for low-impact exercises that can significantly improve your flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

Remember, these supplementary exercises aim to support your BJJ training, not to replace it. If you are 20 years old and can work out daily, go for it. If you are older and need more recovery time or have family commitments, meaning you have to pick and choose, I recommend prioritizing time on the mat supplemented with a mobility routine for warm-up over everything else.

Practical Nutrition Tips for BJJ Practitioners

Proper nutrition can support your BJJ training, but you don’t need a complex diet plan. Here are some actionable tips:

Hydration is crucial. BJJ involves intense physical exertion, and you’ll sweat a lot, especially in a gym. Drink water throughout the day and bring a water bottle to class. Take small sips during breaks in training to avoid discomfort. If you need a drink of water during training, get it!

Timing your meals is essential. Aim to eat a light, easily digestible meal about 2-3 hours before class. This could be like a banana with peanut butter or a small serving of oatmeal with fruit. If you’re training early in the morning, a small snack like a piece of fruit or a granola bar about 30 minutes before class can provide some energy without causing discomfort.

Post-training nutrition matters, too. To support recovery, try to eat something within an hour after class. A combination of protein and carbs can be beneficial—something as simple as chocolate milk or a turkey sandwich can do the trick.

If you’re prone to low blood sugar, keep a small snack in your gym bag. Something like a banana or an energy bar can be helpful if you feel your energy flagging during a long class.

Remember, these are general guidelines. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.

Balancing BJJ with Work and Family Life

If you end up sticking with BJJ, you will likely find it has a way of becoming a significant part of your life. Here are some tips to maintain a healthy balance with your other commitments and relationships.

Be mindful of how much you talk about BJJ with those who don’t share your passion. If you are like me and most others, you are going to be excited about your new jiu jitsu journey. But…constant BJJ talk can be overwhelming for others. Find a balance between sharing your experiences and being attentive to other aspects of your relationships.

Consistency over time is more important than never missing a class. Sometimes, family needs or work obligations must precede your BJJ training. Get comfortable with this.

If you’re considering involving your family in BJJ, approach it thoughtfully. While family BJJ classes can be a great bonding experience, BJJ is not for everyone. Research schools with reputable kids’ programs if you’re considering enrolling your children. For partners or older family members, consider inviting them to watch a class or participate in a beginner-friendly session before making any commitments.

Remember, BJJ is now a part of your life but shouldn’t become your entire life. Strive to be present and engaged in all aspects of your life, not just on the mats. With careful planning and open communication, you can enjoy your BJJ journey while maintaining solid relationships with your loved ones.

Mental Benefits and Personal Growth: The BJJ Advantage

BJJ offers powerful tools for mental and personal development. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just a physical pursuit; it’s a powerful catalyst for mental and personal development. Let’s explore why BJJ is uniquely positioned to offer these benefits:

1. Stress Relief: Why BJJ excels: BJJ provides a unique combination of physical exertion and mental focus that’s hard to find elsewhere. When you’re on the mat, your mind is fully engaged in the present moment – there’s no room for worrying about work deadlines or personal issues when someone is trying to choke you! This intense focus acts as a form of moving meditation, allowing you to “grapple” your stress away.
2. Enhanced Problem-Solving Skills: Why BJJ is different: Every roll (sparring session) in BJJ is like a high-speed, physical chess match. You’re constantly faced with new problems – your opponent’s attacks and defenses –and must solve them in real-time, under pressure. This constant problem-solving under physical and mental stress develops a unique adaptability and quick thinking that transfers well to real-life situations.
3. Increased Confidence: BJJ builds confidence in a way few other activities can. As you progress, you can defend yourself against more extensive, vigorous opponents using technique rather than strength. This physical empowerment translates into mental and emotional confidence. Moreover, the incremental nature of skill development in BJJ provides constant, tangible proof of your improvement, further boosting self-assurance.
4. BJJ’s humbling nature: In BJJ, no matter how good you get, there’s always someone who can teach you something or overcome your techniques. Even black belts get tapped out by lower belts sometimes. This constant reminder of your fallibility and the respect ingrained in BJJ culture cultivate a deep sense of humility. You learn to be confident in your abilities while remaining open to learning and improvement.
5. Strong Sense of Community: The BJJ community is often described as a family, and for good reason. The shared experiences of struggle, growth, and mutual respect create strong bonds. Unlike many individual sports, BJJ requires training partners to progress. This interdependence fosters a unique culture of support and camaraderie. Whether traveling and dropping in at a new gym or competing in a tournament, this sense of community extends globally.
6. Resilience and Perseverance: BJJ is challenging. You’ll face physical discomfort, frustration, and countless failures. But each time you show up and try a technique again after failing, you’re building resilience. This persistent effort in the face of difficulty develops a mental toughness that extends far beyond the mat.
7. Mindfulness and Present-Moment Awareness: The intense focus required in BJJ naturally cultivates mindfulness. When grappling, you must be acutely aware of your body, your opponent’s movements, and your surroundings. This practice of present-moment awareness can help reduce anxiety and increase overall well-being.
8. Self-Discovery and Personal Growth: Your behavior on the mat often reflects your approach to life’s challenges. BJJ provides a safe space to confront your fears, test your limits, and discover aspects of yourself you might not encounter in everyday life. This self-knowledge becomes a powerful tool for personal growth.

BJJ offers a holistic approach to personal development. It challenges you physically, mentally, and emotionally, providing a unique environment for growth. The skills and qualities you develop through consistent BJJ practice – resilience, problem-solving, humility, confidence, and community-mindedness – are invaluable in martial arts and all aspects of life. This is why many practitioners find that BJJ becomes more than just a sport or workout; it becomes a way of life.

Dig deeper in to the overall benefits of BJJ

The Importance of Focused Learning for BJJ Beginners

As a BJJ beginner, your primary focus should be consistent mat time and mastering the BJJ fundamentals. Regular class attendance is your most valuable learning tool. Dedicate yourself to drilling the techniques taught in class and participate in open mat sessions to practice what you’ve learned. This consistent practice is the cornerstone of your BJJ journey.

While class time is crucial, you might be tempted to supplement your learning with other resources. Instructional videos can be helpful but use them sparingly and only to reinforce techniques you learn in class. Stick to content from your gym or highly reputable sources. If you notice discrepancies between videos and class instruction, always defer to your instructor’s teachings. Remember, limit your viewing to avoid information overload.

Instead of attending seminars, which can often be too advanced or overwhelming for beginners, consider investing in private lessons with your instructor. These one-on-one sessions allow for personalized attention, which will strengthen your mindset as a beginner and help correct your specific issues. Use this valuable time to refine your understanding of fundamentals, not to learn advanced techniques.

Regarding books, technique-heavy texts may not be the best use your time at this stage. If you’re interested in the mental aspect of BJJ, consider books on its philosophy or mindset. “Jiu-Jitsu University” by Saulo Ribeiro is often recommended for beginners as it covers fundamental concepts without delving too deep into complex techniques.

While your primary focus should be on BJJ, some complementary practices can be beneficial. Yoga and mobility exercises can help improve your flexibility and range of motion, which are valuable for BJJ. However, hold off on cross-training in other martial arts until you have a solid BJJ foundation.

Remember, at this stage, consistency in your BJJ classes and drilling the basics are far more critical than any outside resource. Your goal is to build a strong foundation, not to accumulate a broad but shallow knowledge base. Stay focused on regular training, be patient with your progress, and don’t hesitate to ask your instructor for guidance when unsure.

Learning BJJ takes time, but with dedication to the fundamentals, you’ll be amazed at how far you can progress. Enjoy the journey of becoming proficient in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Building a BJJ lifestyle is about finding balance, especially in the beginning. Listen to your body, prioritize recovery, and don’t rush. Your body needs time to adapt to new movements and stresses. This is particularly true if you’re an older athlete or coming from a sedentary lifestyle.

Stay consistent, stay patient, and enjoy the journey. BJJ is a marathon, not a sprint. With time and dedication, you’ll improve on the mat and experience the transformative effects of BJJ in your daily life.