Your First Class: What to Expect

The first class is an introduction to the world of BJJ. You don’t need to be an athlete or have any prior experience. The focus is on learning and having fun.

Arriving at the Academy

When you arrive at Gracie Barra Pearland, you will be greeted by our staff. We will introduce you to the instructor and a few students. The environment is designed to be friendly and supportive. Feel free to ask questions at any time.

The Class Structure

A typical beginner’s class follows a clear structure:

1. Warm-up: We start with light exercises to prepare the body. This includes jogging, jumping jacks, and specific Jiu-Jitsu movements like hip escapes and rolls.

2. Technique: The instructor will demonstrate one or two techniques step-by-step. You will partner with another student to practice the moves cooperatively. The focus here is on precision, not power.

3. Positional Training (Situational Sparring): You may practice the learned techniques in specific, controlled scenarios. This helps you understand the application of the movements.

4. Cool-down: The class ends with stretches to aid in muscle recovery and relaxation.

It’s important to note that live training (known as “rolling”) is generally optional for beginners until they feel comfortable. Safety is always our number one priority.

Essential Mat Etiquette: The Golden Rules

The mat (the training area) is a sacred space. Etiquette ensures it remains an environment of respect, learning, and safety.

1. Hygiene is Non-Negotiable

This is the most important rule. Jiu-Jitsu is a close-contact sport.

• Clean Gi (Kimono): Your gi must be washed after every training session. Never wear a dirty gi.

• Personal Hygiene: Shower before class if possible. Wear deodorant and have fresh breath.

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

• Long Hair: If you have long hair, tie it back so it doesn’t get in your or your partner’s way.

2. Respect Above All

• Bow to the Mat: When entering and leaving the mat, give a small bow. It’s a sign of respect for the training space.

• Respect the Instructor: When the instructor is speaking, stop what you’re doing, look, and listen attentively.

• Respect Your Partners: Treat everyone with courtesy. Thank your partner after every drill or roll. Remember, you are there to help each other improve.

3. Safety First

• Tap to Submit: If you get caught in a submission, tap firmly three times on your partner or the mat. You can also submit verbally by saying “tap.” There is no shame in tapping; it’s how you learn and avoid injury. Let go immediately when your partner taps.

• No Shoes on the Mat: Never step on the mat with shoes, sandals, or any footwear you wear outside. This keeps the mat clean and hygienic.

• Leave Your Ego at the Door: You are going to get submitted. A lot. View it as a learning opportunity. Trying to “win” at all costs by using excessive force, especially as a beginner, is the quickest way to injure yourself or someone else.

4. During the Class

• Be Punctual: Arrive on time for class. If you are late, wait at the edge of the mat for the instructor’s permission to join.

• Focus on Learning: Avoid side conversations while the instructor is teaching. The mat is a place of learning.

• Be Spatially Aware: When rolling, be aware of other pairs around you to avoid collisions. If you get too close to another group, pause and reposition.

What to Wear and Bring

• The Gi (Kimono): For most classes, you will need a Jiu-Jitsu gi. If you don’t have one for your trial class, we can provide one. The gi should be clean and in good condition.

• Undergarments: It is common to wear a rash guard (a Lycra shirt) or a fitted t-shirt under the gi. For women, a sports top is also recommended.

• Essential Items: Bring a water bottle, a pair of sandals to wear off the mat (especially for trips to the restroom), and a towel if you wish.