Your First Jiu-Jitsu Class: Everything You Need to Know to Feel Like a Pro

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can seem a bit intimidating, but your first class is a rite of passage into an incredible journey. The good news? You don’t need to be an athlete or have any background in martial arts to begin. Here’s what to expect in your first jiu-jitsu class so you can confidently walk in and leave feeling accomplished.

1. What to Wear

No fancy gear is needed to start! If you don’t have a gi (the traditional uniform), wear comfortable athletic clothing that lets you move freely. Most gyms have loaner gis available, allowing you to try one out. Leave jewelry and accessories at home to avoid injuries. Pro tip: bring a water bottle and flip-flops to wear off the mats.

2. Warm-Up Wonders

Your class will likely start with a warm-up designed to loosen your body and prepare you for training. At The MATS Academy, we provide a dynamic warm-up that includes animal-like movement, yoga, mobility drills, and inversions. These drills might feel a little unfamiliar at first, but they are crucial to jiu-jitsu. Just follow along, and don’t worry about being perfect—everyone starts somewhere.

3. Technique Time

After the warm-up, the instructor will demonstrate a technique, usually a fundamental move such as a guard pass or a simple sweep. They will break it down step by step and explain how it works and why. This is your opportunity to observe and absorb the details.

4. Partner Practice

Once the technique is demonstrated, you’ll pair up with a partner to practice. Don’t worry if you feel nervous—your partner is there to assist, not to compete. Move at your own pace and concentrate on understanding the mechanics of the move. Everyone was a beginner at some point, and most teammates will be supportive and encouraging.

5. Sparring Optional

Some gyms offer light sparring, also referred to as “rolling,” at the end of class. If your instructor provides this opportunity and you feel prepared, you’re welcome to participate. However, there’s no pressure to spar during your first class. Watching others roll can also be a valuable way to learn and grasp the flow of jiu-jitsu.

6. Ask Away

Have questions? Don’t hesitate to ask! Coaches enjoy assisting new students, and there’s no such thing as a silly question. Whether you’re uncertain about a technique or inquisitive about the gym’s culture, now is the perfect time to express your thoughts.

7. Cool Down

At the end of class, you’ll cool down with stretches or light movements. This is also an excellent opportunity to reflect on what you’ve learned. Don’t worry if you didn’t retain everything—jiu-jitsu is a marathon, not a sprint. The key thing is that you showed up and tried something new.

 8. No Pressure

Walking into your first jiu-jitsu class can feel like a significant step, but remember: no one expects you to master anything on your first day. Your initial goal is simply to show up, enjoy yourself, and get a feel for the sport. Progress comes with consistency, and every black belt once had a first day just like yours.

Your first jiu-jitsu class marks the start of an exciting journey filled with growth, challenges, and camaraderie. Whether you leave feeling exhilarated or slightly overwhelmed, take pride in taking that first step. Are you ready to discover what you’re capable of? The MATS are waiting for you!