The hardest part of a first jiu-jitsu class is often walking through the door. You don't know the positions, you don't know the terminology, and everyone else seems to know exactly where to go. That's normal. You aren't expected to arrive knowing how to grapple.
Before you get on the mat
Arrive about 15 minutes early. At Nashville MMA Training Camp, that gives us time to show you around, introduce the coach and handle your waiver. Bring water and comfortable, clean athletic clothes without zippers, buttons or pockets. We train barefoot on the mats. If you're attending a gi class, ask our team about a gi before you come; a gi and belt are required for those classes. No-gi is an option if you would rather start in athletic training gear.
You do not have to be in shape before starting. The point of coming to class is to learn a skill and gradually build the conditioning that goes with it.
What a fundamentals class actually teaches
Most people picture submissions when they think of BJJ. New students spend much of their time learning how to move safely, maintain balance and understand position. You may practice getting up from the ground, escaping an uncomfortable position, using your hips to create space or holding a partner in a stable position.
Coaches typically demonstrate a movement, then partners drill it slowly. You get more out of five deliberate repetitions than twenty frantic ones. Ask questions. Coaches would rather correct a detail early than watch someone practice the wrong habit for a month.
Do I have to roll on day one?
Our grappling program includes live rolling, even at the fundamentals level. That doesn't mean every new person should jump into an intense round. Tell the coach it's your first class and discuss the right level of participation. Observing a round or doing controlled positional work can be more useful than trying to win against someone experienced.
Tapping is a normal part of training. Tap early when you feel caught, stop immediately when your partner taps and avoid explosive movements. Training partners are there to help each other improve, not to prove who is tougher.
How to judge your first class
Don't judge it by how many techniques you remember. You might recall only one escape or the difference between guard and mount. That's a good first session. A better question is whether the coach explained things clearly, you felt comfortable asking questions and you can see yourself returning twice next week.
Our jiu-jitsu program is led by Bryan “BT” Tidwell, a third-degree black belt and founder of Matrix Jiu-Jitsu. We offer fundamentals as well as more advanced gi and no-gi training, so you don't have to learn beside competitors moving at full speed.
If you're deciding between disciplines, read our guide to gi versus no-gi or browse the adult jiu-jitsu program. The first session is about getting familiar, not getting good overnight.
Take the next step
See our jiu-jitsu classes and ask the front desk to set up a free trial.