BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU FOR BEGINNERS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

What Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, commonly known as BJJ, is a grappling-based martial art focused on controlling an opponent through positioning, movement and technique.

Unlike striking-based martial arts, BJJ training focuses primarily on what happens when two people are grappling particularly on the ground.

You’ll learn how to control positions, escape difficult situations, transition between positions and apply submission techniques safely.

What Will You Learn as a Beginner?

Your first BJJ classes are about understanding the fundamentals.

Depending on the session, you may begin learning:

• Basic positions and movement

• Positional control

• Escapes

• Guard fundamentals

• Transitions

• Submission techniques

• Defensive skills

• Partner drills

You won’t be expected to remember everything immediately. BJJ has a significant technical element, and understanding develops progressively through consistent training.

Do I Need Previous Experience?

No.

You don't need experience in wrestling, MMA or any other martial art before starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Beginners can start by learning fundamental positions and techniques before gradually progressing towards more complex situations.

Everyone on the mats was a beginner once.

Is BJJ Good for Fitness?

BJJ can provide a demanding full-body workout.

Training involves movement, balance, coordination and controlling another person's weight, which can help develop:

• Strength

• Cardiovascular fitness

• Mobility

• Coordination

• Body awareness

• Endurance

But you don't need to get fit before starting. Your physical conditioning can develop alongside your technical ability.

What Is Rolling?

You'll probably hear people in BJJ talking about “rolling.”

Rolling is the term commonly used for live grappling practice. Instead of following a predetermined sequence, training partners apply the techniques they've learned against resistance in a controlled environment.

For beginners, this can be introduced progressively as you become more comfortable with the fundamentals.

The objective isn't simply to “win.” Rolling gives you an opportunity to test your technique, identify areas for improvement and continue learning.

What Should I Wear?

What you need depends on whether the class is Gi or No-Gi.

For No-Gi training, this will typically involve appropriate sports clothing or grappling equipment.

Gi BJJ uses the traditional BJJ uniform known as a gi.

If you're attending B4MMA for the first time and aren't sure what you need, speak to the team before your session and they'll let you know what to bring.

Is BJJ Only for People Who Want to Compete?

No.

People train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for many different reasons.

Some want to compete. Others train to improve fitness, learn a martial art, challenge themselves or simply become part of a community.

You can develop at your own pace without having competition as your goal.

Ready to Try Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

You don't need previous experience to get started.

If you're interested in BJJ but aren't sure which session is right for you, speak with the B4MMA team.

Book a free consultation and find the right place to start.