Starting BJJ: The Definitive Guide

 

 

Jiu Jitsu, also known as BJJ, is a grappling art focused on ground combat. It gained popularity following UFC 1 when Royce Gracie showed that a skilled grappler could take on striking force physically strong by employing leverage and technique.

Jiu Jitsu's influence in mixed martial art (MMA) and as a stand-alone discipline has been proven since the beginning. There are thousands of Jiu-Jitsu training centers worldwide. You can study the method of controlling an opponent by not striking but instead using positional dominance to win the submission victory (a string or joint lock). Submission is when the opponent is forced to tap to the side.

Jiu Jitsu is one of the most rapidly growing martial arts worldwide and is also among the most enjoyable methods to stay fit. It can be used as a self-defense technique or as a sport for competition. The school's owner wrote this detailed guide to beginning Jiu-Jitsu; however, it gives you an accurate notion of what you can expect from the beginning of your jiu-Jitsu training.

WHY EVEN CONSIDER TRYING JIU-JITSU?

You can write a book about the reasons to train in Jiu Jitsu but to give a few examples of benefits:

It will show you how to safeguard yourself from self-defense threats through the use of skills that you can trust.

Jiu Jitsu is a fantastic exercise that can help you get fit and is also one of the most enjoyable sports you can participate in. Jiu Jitsu is not only physically effective, but it's as well intellectually stimulating since the process of learning new skills requires focusing on understanding the concepts, not simply following along.

Jiu Jitsu can be learned by a partner, which makes it ideal for socializing and building lasting bonds. It's also among the most supportive communities you'll discover since you'll be in a group of people trying to achieve similar goals.

Jiu-Jitsu isn't easy. The path to achieving the black belt is long and full of challenges. We know that the accomplishment of overcoming obstacles and persevering to fight is highly satisfying.

Jiu Jitsu is a lot of enjoyment. Jiu-Jitsu is indeed challenging; however, it's also a lot of enjoyment. It's hard to quantify the joy of an excellent training session or discovering the latest submission to any other activity.

DO I NEED A UNIFORM TO START?

Traditionally, the Jiu-Jitsu student is taught in the form of a GI, a martial arts uniform resembling a judo uniform. It comprises pants, a cotton jacket, and a white belt. Certain schools might also require a rashguard or compression top worn underneath your uniform to ensure hygiene. A typical t-shirt could work; however, they're too long and get destroyed after a few hours, which is why polyester lasts longer.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME ON MY FIRST DAY?

First, you must bring smiles with an open and positive attitude.

The first lesson you take is to be calm on physical demands, but you should dress in something comfortable and comfortable to move around in, e.g., gym wear.

When you begin attending classes regularly, you will require an outfit. You can purchase them through the internet or at the school you attend.

Make sure to drink plenty of water! Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can work up quite a sweat. Therefore, drinking water is essential, especially for those just beginning out, because it's easy to lose yourself in the class and makes one forget the need to hydrate themselves.

Also, even though it's not necessary to wear a mouth guard in practice sessions or your introduction lesson, or any other classes that aren't sparring is an excellent idea to use for sparring. There are a variety of boil-at-home mouth guards online or in the sports retailer. If you are interested in BJJ and want to invest in the custom mouth guard designed by a dentist is worth the cost. They're easier to put on and remain more securely in place.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I COME TO THE ACADEMY FOR MY FIRST LESSON?

The process varies slightly between schools. In our studio, you will likely be welcomed by the front door and escorted to our lounge.

In the next step, you'll need to fill out an easy questionnaire on your iPad and sign an agreement. Then, we'll jump directly onto the mats to start your private lesson. In this class, we teach you about Jiu Jitsu, show you some techniques, and help you prepare for our class. In addition, you'll get a short tour around the studio, and it's an excellent opportunity to discuss any questions you might need before starting your training.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE TEACHERS?

The level of jiu-Jitsu instructors can vary greatly. Most instructors wear black or brown belts. But, just because a belt is ranked doesn't always mean that the person is the most influential teacher.

It's an excellent idea to do an initial investigation into instructors' accomplishments and their reputations. If you're in a remote or small community, you might have a few options, but in an area such as Canberra...you must ensure that you receive high-quality instruction.

Your teacher must be friendly, professional, and willing to assist you when you're struggling.

ARE THERE WARMUPS?

You can anticipate an initial warm-up session before an introduction class. They differ based on the instructor.

There are a variety of methods to get warm. Some schools start by running in circles and have specific exercises. Forward rolls, reverse rolls, break falls, and other sport-specific movements are all taught.

WILL THE TECHNIQUES MAKE SENSE TO ME?

Most likely. If you're a UFC fan, you'll see some of the positions are like those you see in cages. Back control, mounting, and specific submissions are some examples. Our typical reactions to fighters that aren't striking are incorrect and must be changed.

Disclosure: A handful of positions in BJJ are closed, like a guard or mount, or side control, which are as natural for Jiu-Jitsu fighters as breathing or walking. Although it may be uncomfortable to put your legs around a person and then sit on their stomachs, remember that you're learning to safeguard your life if you are forced to argue.

A reputable jiu-Jitsu school has a syllabus to teach students who are new to the sport. Observing instructors demonstrating methods that don't match could signify that the instructor is unprofessional.

HOW DOES ONE PRACTICE JIU-JITSU?

After the teacher has explained and shown a method, you're paired with one of the students and take turns practicing. This typically involves repeating the information that was demonstrated to you by the teacher.

If you encounter difficulties you may encounter difficulties, your instructor is likely to be able to offer some advice or repeat a particular aspect. After a few attempts to practice, the instructor will typically demonstrate a continuation of the previous technique or slight modification.

HOW DO I STAY SAFE ON THE MATS?

The first thing to be aware of is your well-being and health. Be sure to focus on the correct way to perform each exercise, paying attention to details, and not imposing your will on others are all important to maintain the safety of your training environment.

After you begin sparring, the most important rule to follow for being secure on the mat is to tap. You may tap out (i.e., submit) whenever you feel in danger or are experiencing discomfort using your hands and tapping 2 to 4 times on your trainer.

Experimenting with tapping out is a great idea, so don't be scared or embarrassed by doing it!

It is crucial to ensure that your opponent feels it and not just listen to it. Tapping the mat can be effective; however, tapping your opponent or partner is the most effective strategy. In the rare instances when your hands are tied, then you should call out "TAP" or "STOP." If someone taps you, then you have to be able to stop and let go. It's an obligation of trust which keeps us safe.

WILL I BE FIGHTING SOMEONE ON MY FIRST DAY?

The rules vary from school to school. Specific Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academies don't allow new students to compete for a specific duration of time. Certain are on the other extreme, without a separate beginner class. It is a sign that beginners often have to compete with more experienced people before being prepared.

Jiu Jitsu classes usually end with sessions of sparring. This is among the most appealing features of BJJ. Striking martial arts have some limitations. Performing sparring (practice fight) with full force in striking is impossible, as you could knock your opponent unconscious or break their face.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I TRAIN JIU JITSU?

This is a critical issue and is directly related to your objectives. The more frequently you train, the faster you'll master new abilities, build the ability to comprehend techniques and movements, and improve the overall coordination of your body.

There aren't any set guidelines regarding this, but general guidelines are that newbies should try to train two times each week. If you're used to pushing yourself, you're welcome to go to the gym daily! But, doing only two or three times per week is enough to improve. It's not ideal to attend every week for rapid improvement, but it's more effective than having zero days each week!

The most effective thing you can do is listen to your body's response to the exercise. If you feel less tired than usual after training or your muscles are strained, it is best to rest for a couple of days until your muscles can recover. BJJ classes are physically demanding, and you must have enough time to recover.

Jiu-Jitsu is a lifetime experience, so don't get too carried away. Honesty always wins over the most intense bursts of energy.