Your First Class: What to Expect

The first class is more about observation and learning than about performance. Relax and absorb the experience. Here is a summary of what usually happens:

1. Warm-up: The class will begin with a warm-up to prepare your body. This may include running, jumping jacks, and BJJ-specific movements like “hip escapes” (shrimping) and rolls. Don’t worry if you can’t do everything perfectly; the goal is to get moving.

2. Technique Instruction: The professor will demonstrate one or two techniques of the day. They will break them down into easy-to-follow steps. You will partner with another student to practice the movements cooperatively.

3. Positional Training or Sparring (Rolling): At the end of the class, there may be positional training (where you start in a specific position) or light sparring, known as “rolling.” As a beginner, your focus should be on trying to apply the technique of the day and, most importantly, staying safe and relaxed. Remember, it’s okay to “tap” (give up) if you feel uncomfortable.

Basic Terminology You Will Hear

Jiu-Jitsu has its own vocabulary. Here are some terms you will likely hear:

• Gi: The traditional Jiu-Jitsu uniform, similar to a judo kimono.

• Tatame (Mat): The padded training area.

• Roll: The term for sparring or training matches in BJJ.

• Tap: The act of tapping your hand on your partner, on the mat, or saying “tap” to signal submission to a choke or lock. It is a sign of intelligence, not weakness.

• Guard: A defensive position where you are on your back controlling your opponent with your legs.

• Guard Pass: The act of getting around your opponent’s legs (the guard) to achieve a dominant top position.

Essential Rules of Mat Etiquette

Following mat etiquette is the most important way to show respect for the art, your instructors, and your training partners. These rules create a safe and positive learning environment for everyone.

1. Respect for the Mat and the Professor

• Bow: Always bow when entering and leaving the mat. It is a sign of respect for your training space.

• Shoes Off the Mat: Never step on the mat with shoes. The mat is a sacred space and must be kept clean. Likewise, do not walk barefoot off the mat (use sandals to go to the restroom).

• Pay Attention: When the professor is demonstrating a technique, sit or kneel quietly and pay attention. Do not talk with your training partners during instruction.

• Ask for Permission: If you need to leave the mat during class, always ask the instructor for permission.

2. Personal Hygiene is Mandatory

• Trimmed Nails: Keep your fingernails and toenails short and trimmed to avoid scratching your training partners.

• Clean Gi: Always come to class with a clean Gi (uniform) that is free of odors. A dirty Gi is disrespectful and unhygienic.

• Good Hygiene: Make sure you are clean and wear deodorant. Avoid using strong perfumes or colognes.

• Cover Wounds: If you have any cuts or scrapes, cover them properly with tape or a bandage.

3. Be a Good Training Partner

• Tap Early, Tap Often: The ego has no place on the mat. If you are caught in a submission, tap to avoid injury. This allows you to continue training.

• Be Controlled: The goal of training is not to “win” at all costs. It is to learn. Apply submissions slowly and with control, giving your partner enough time to tap.

• Respect Higher Belts: Be respectful to higher-ranked belts. They have more experience and can offer great advice.

• Be Spatially Aware: Be aware of your surroundings when rolling. If you get too close to another pair, stop and reposition to avoid collisions and injuries.

• Don’t Give Advice (Yet): As a beginner, your role is to absorb knowledge. Avoid trying to “teach” other students, even newer ones. Leave the instruction to the professors.