Finding a gym is the first and most important step. The gym you choose will possibly be your home for the years to come. As you search for a gym there are many important factors to consider. Some of these factors include:
Choosing the right Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) gym is an important first step in your journey. A good gym will offer quality instruction, a welcoming atmosphere, and a community that supports your growth. But with so many options out there, how do you find the right fit for you? Here's what to look for when selecting a BJJ academy.
1. Quality of Instruction
The foundation of any good BJJ gym is its instructors. Look for experienced, knowledgeable coaches who create a structured learning environment.
Instructor's Credentials: It's important to check the background and lineage of the head instructor. A black belt with years of teaching experience will provide the best instruction. You might also want to research if they've competed or trained under well-known instructors in the BJJ community.
Teaching Style: Observe or attend a trial class to see how the instructor teaches. Do they explain techniques clearly? Are they patient with beginners? A good coach breaks down complex movements and creates an environment where everyone, regardless of skill level, can improve.
2. Gym Culture and Atmosphere
Every gym has its own vibe, and finding one where you feel comfortable is crucial.
Welcoming Environment: A gym should feel welcoming to all students, regardless of age, gender, or skill level. Talk to members and observe how they interact with new students. Are they encouraging and helpful? A gym with a supportive community makes your learning experience more enjoyable.
Respectful Training Partners: BJJ requires trust, especially since you'll be rolling with others in close contact. You'll want to train with people who are focused on learning and not on "winning" during sparring sessions. Safety and mutual respect should always be prioritized on the mats.
3. Beginner-Friendly Classes
As a beginner, it's important to find a gym that offers structured classes for new students.
Beginner Programs: Look for gyms that offer dedicated beginner classes or fundamentals programs. These classes focus on teaching essential techniques and movements that will build a strong foundation in BJJ.
Class Sizes: Consider the size of the classes. Smaller class sizes often allow for more personalized attention from instructors, which can be especially helpful when you're starting out.
4. Location and Schedule
Consistency is key in BJJ, so it's important to choose a gym that's convenient for you to attend regularly.
Proximity: Find a gym that's easy to get to, whether it's near your home, school, or work. The closer the gym, the more likely you'll stick to your training routine.
Class Times: Check the gym's schedule to ensure that their class times fit into your personal or work schedule. Most gyms offer a variety of morning, evening, and weekend classes, so pick one that aligns with your availability.
5. Cleanliness and Hygiene
A clean gym is a safe gym. Hygiene is extremely important in BJJ, where close contact and shared mats are part of every session.
Mats and Facilities: Check how often the mats are cleaned and whether the gym follows strict hygiene protocols. Clean, well-maintained mats and changing facilities reduce the risk of infections like ringworm and staph.
Cleanliness Standards: Talk to the staff or observe how the gym is kept. Are the bathrooms and locker rooms clean? Are the students encouraged to practice good personal hygiene? A well-maintained gym reflects a culture of respect for the training space and your health.
6. Free Trial Classes
Many gyms offer free trial classes or introductory periods. Take advantage of these to get a feel for the gym's culture, teaching style, and overall environment.
Experience the Atmosphere: During your trial class, observe the interactions between the coach and students. Are the classes well-structured and easy to follow? Do you feel comfortable asking questions?
Gauge Your Comfort Level: Most importantly, assess how you feel during the class. Did you enjoy it? Do you feel excited to return for more training? The right gym should leave you feeling motivated and eager to learn more.
7. Membership Options and Pricing
Different gyms offer various membership plans, so consider your budget and the value you're getting in return.
Membership Costs: Prices can vary significantly depending on location, the reputation of the gym, and what's included in the membership (e.g., gi, no-gi classes, open mat sessions). Ask for a breakdown of costs and see if there are any sign-up fees or additional costs for gear.
Contracts vs. No Contracts: Some gyms require long-term contracts, while others operate on month-to-month memberships. If you're just starting out, you might prefer a gym with flexible membership options until you're certain it's the right fit for you.
8. Special Focus Areas (Competition, Self-Defense, etc.)
Each BJJ gym may have a slightly different focus depending on its instructors and student base.
Self-Defense vs. Sport: If your main goal is self-defense, look for gyms that emphasize real-world application of BJJ techniques. If you're interested in competition, find a gym that has a strong competition team and regularly participates in tournaments.
Additional Programs: Some gyms also offer other martial arts like Muay Thai, Judo, or MMA. If you're interested in cross-training, this can be a great bonus.
Whether you're training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in gi or no-gi classes, wearing the appropriate attire ensures a safe and effective training experience. Your uniform plays an important role in comfort, performance, and even the techniques you'll learn. Here's what you need to know about BJJ attire.
In traditional BJJ, you'll train wearing a gi (also called a kimono), a heavy-duty uniform made from thick cotton. The gi is an essential part of training, as many BJJ techniques—such as grips, chokes, and sweeps—are based on grabbing the fabric.
1. Gi Components:
Choosing the Right Gi:
2. No-Gi Attire
For no-gi BJJ training, you'll ditch the gi and wear athletic gear designed for grappling. Without the gi, you'll focus more on techniques that rely on body control, grips on your opponent's limbs, and submissions rather than fabric manipulation.
No-Gi Gear Essentials:
Why Wear Compression Gear?
Compression gear not only helps reduce friction burns on your skin, but it also minimizes the risk of injury by keeping everything tight and streamlined during movement. It also prevents the spread of bacteria and helps maintain proper hygiene.
3. Proper Belt Tying
Learning how to properly tie your belt is a small but important part of BJJ tradition. The belt represents your rank and is an essential part of the gi. Make sure your belt is tied securely before class, and if it becomes untied during rolling, pause to tie it properly before resuming.
4. Additional Tips for BJJ Attire
5. Invest in Good Gear
Your BJJ gear is an investment in your training. Durable, high-quality gear will last longer and offer better performance. While you don't need to spend a fortune, consider purchasing trusted brands that specialize in BJJ clothing to ensure comfort and functionality.
No matter which style of BJJ you're training—gi or no-gi—wearing the right attire helps you stay focused and comfortable on the mats. Always check with your gym for specific dress codes or recommendations and ensure your gear is clean and ready for every session.
Many people tell themselves that they will first get in shape before starting Jiu Jitsu. Unless your doctor has advised you specifically to do this, you should not delay starting your Jiu Jitsu journey. And if your doctor does suggest this, it would be smart to get a second opinion.
The beauty of BJJ is that it adapts to your current fitness level. You'll get stronger and more agile as you train, so don't worry about being “in shape” to start. Training Jiu Jitsu is the perfect way to improve your health and strengthen your body. The best day to start training is today.
Hygiene plays a critical role in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, not only for your safety but also for the comfort and well-being of your training partners. Since BJJ involves close contact and rolling on shared mats, it's essential to maintain good personal hygiene to prevent the spread of infections and ensure a pleasant training experience for everyone.
Here are some important hygiene tips to follow:
1. Keep Your Gi and Gear Clean
After every training session, make sure to wash your gi (or no-gi gear) thoroughly. Sweat and bacteria can accumulate in your clothing, so never train in a dirty or unwashed uniform. Aim to have at least two gis if possible, so you always have a clean one ready for your next class.
2. Shower Before and After Training
Take a quick shower before training if possible, especially if you've had a long day or an intense workout earlier. After training, showering is essential to wash off sweat, dirt, and any germs that may have come in contact with your skin during class. This will help prevent skin infections like ringworm or staph.
3. Trim Your Nails
Keep your fingernails and toenails short to avoid accidentally scratching or injuring your training partners. Long nails can also harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of infections.
4. Use Clean, Dry Gear
Don't leave wet or damp gear (like your gi, rash guards, or shorts) in your bag after training. Bacteria thrive in moist environments, so always air out your gear and make sure it's completely dry before using it again. A clean, dry gi is essential for your own hygiene and that of others.
5. Protect Your Skin
Inspect your skin regularly for any cuts, abrasions, or unusual rashes. If you notice any skin issues, it's best to sit out until they heal, as infections can spread through skin-to-skin contact. Using an antifungal body wash or wipes after training can also help protect against common skin infections.
6. Footwear Off the Mats
Always wear sandals or flip-flops when walking around the gym off the mats—especially in the locker room or restroom areas. This helps keep the mats clean by preventing dirt and bacteria from being tracked onto the training area.
7. Keep Long Hair Tied Back
If you have long hair, tie it back neatly before training to avoid it getting in the way or becoming a hazard for you and your training partners.
By following these hygiene guidelines, you'll help maintain a clean and safe training environment for yourself and others. Practicing good hygiene shows respect for your teammates and ensures that everyone can train in a healthy, enjoyable atmosphere.