Trying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for the first time can feel like a big step.
You may be wondering whether you are fit enough, what you should wear or whether everyone else will already know what they are doing. These are completely normal concerns, but you do not need any previous martial arts experience to begin.
At Roger Gracie Academy Buckingham, we regularly welcome adults who have never stepped onto a martial arts mat before. Your first class is about meeting the team, learning some basic movements and discovering whether Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is right for you.
Here is what you can expect.
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, commonly called BJJ, is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on controlling an opponent using positioning, leverage and technique.
Unlike striking-based martial arts, BJJ training does not involve punching or kicking. You will learn skills such as maintaining control, escaping difficult positions and applying techniques safely with a training partner.
It is a practical martial art, a challenging form of exercise and a skill that you can continue developing for years.
Do I need to be fit before starting BJJ?
No. You do not need to get fit before attending your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class.
One of the benefits of regular training is that your fitness, coordination and mobility will gradually improve. Everyone starts from a different place, and you will be encouraged to work at a suitable pace.
Your first few sessions may feel physically demanding because you are using your body in unfamiliar ways. That is completely normal. You are not expected to keep up with experienced students or already understand every movement.
The best way to become fit enough for Jiu-Jitsu is simply to start training Jiu-Jitsu.
What should I wear to my first BJJ class?
For your first class, comfortable gym clothing is usually all you need.
We recommend wearing:
- A fitted T-shirt or sports top
- Shorts, leggings or jogging bottoms
- Clothing without zips, metal fastenings or large pockets
- Flip-flops or sliders to wear when walking away from the mats
Avoid loose jewellery and remove watches, rings, necklaces and earrings before training.
You do not need to purchase a Jiu-Jitsu gi before your trial. If you decide to continue training, our team can explain what equipment you will need and help you choose something suitable.
What happens when I arrive?
Try to arrive around 10 to 15 minutes before the class begins. This gives you time to meet the instructor, see the academy and ask any questions before training starts.
One of our coaches will welcome you and explain where to change, where to leave your belongings and how the session will work.
Let the instructor know about any injuries or medical issues that could affect your training. We can then help you modify movements or avoid anything unsuitable.
Our academy is located at the OTE Centre in central Buckingham, with parking available nearby. You can check the full location details on our Find Us page.
How is a beginner BJJ class structured?
The exact format can vary, but a typical class contains several parts.
Warm-up
The class will usually begin with a short warm-up. This may include mobility exercises, simple partner movements and drills that prepare you for the techniques being taught.
Some of the movements may initially feel unfamiliar. Nobody expects you to perform them perfectly on your first attempt.
Technique
The instructor will demonstrate one or more techniques and explain how they work.
You will then practise these movements with a partner at a controlled pace. Coaches will move around the class, answer questions and help you make adjustments.
There is no pressure to remember everything immediately. Learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a gradual process, and even experienced students regularly revisit the fundamentals.
Positional training or sparring
Some classes finish with positional training or controlled sparring, which is often called rolling.
New students are not expected to spar before they feel comfortable. Depending on the class and your experience, you may continue practising the techniques or work through a carefully controlled exercise with an experienced partner.
The coach will explain exactly what you should do.
Will I be training with experienced students?
Possibly, and this can be extremely helpful.
Experienced students understand what it is like to be new and can help you practise at an appropriate pace. A good training partner is not trying to beat you or prove anything. Their role is to help both of you learn safely.
The coaches will match you with an appropriate partner and supervise the class.
You should never be afraid to ask someone to slow down or stop. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, speak to the instructor.
What does tapping mean?
Tapping is one of the most important safety habits in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
If your training partner applies a submission or you feel uncomfortable, you tap them clearly with your hand. You can also tap the mat or say “tap” if your hands are unavailable.
As soon as someone taps, the technique is released.
Tapping is not losing or failing. It allows everyone to train safely, understand techniques and continue learning. Every student taps during training, including experienced competitors and black belts.
What are the basic rules of BJJ etiquette?
You will be guided through the academy rules, but the essentials are straightforward:
- Keep your fingernails and toenails short
- Wear clean training clothing
- Remove shoes before stepping onto the mats
- Wear footwear whenever you leave the mat area
- Remove jewellery before training
- Listen while the instructor is demonstrating
- Train with control and respect your partner
- Tap early when caught in a submission
- Tell the instructor about any injuries
Good hygiene and respectful training help create a safe environment for everyone.
Will everyone be watching me?
No. Most people will be concentrating on their own training.
Every experienced student was once a beginner who did not know where to stand, how to move or what the different techniques were called. Nobody expects you to arrive with existing knowledge.
You are allowed to ask questions, make mistakes and take time to understand what you are doing. That is part of learning.
What can Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu help you develop?
People begin training for many different reasons. Regular BJJ practice can help you:
- Improve your general fitness and mobility
- Build confidence
- Learn practical martial arts skills
- Develop coordination and body awareness
- Manage pressure and solve problems
- Meet new people
- Work towards personal or competitive goals
You do not need to be interested in competition. Many people train simply because they enjoy learning, staying active and being part of a positive community.
Ready to try your first class?
Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is usually much easier than people expect.
You do not need to be fit, flexible or experienced. You only need to be willing to try something new.
Roger Gracie Academy Buckingham offers structured, beginner-friendly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes in a welcoming environment. Our adults programme is suitable for complete beginners as well as experienced students.
Your first class is completely free, with no pressure or commitment.
Book your free trial class at RGA Buckingham
You can also view our current class timetable or learn more about our adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes.
We look forward to welcoming you onto the mats.
