So you’re thinking about learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? This Absolute MMA blog post is your guide to getting started in BJJ. Our goal at Absolute MMA here in West Jordan, Utah is to help you with your long-term goals whether you want to become a fighter or to improve your health.
Now that you know our intentions, let’s get started. We’ll cover what Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is and also answer the most frequently asked questions we receive about our classes.
What is the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that teaches you how to take down an opponent and use technique/leverage to finish a fight. BJJ helps people defend themselves in hand-to-hand scenarios against a larger, more aggressive opponent. This ground fighting system is highly effective and can be used in different scenarios like self-defense and MMA matches.
At any given BJJ class, you’ll find people of different ages, physical abilities, and goals. It’s not uncommon for you to train with people with various career paths and levels of experience on the mat. It’s proof that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be for everyone and can be a way for you to achieve your goals.
Benefits of learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
There are multiple benefits BJJ practitioners receive from learning the art. Here’s a list of some of those benefits:
- More self-confidence: The confidence you gain from training will build every minute you’re on the mat. You’ll feel more confident as you gain new skills and find yourself successfully doing hard things. As you push yourself, you’ll see that your potential is greater than you think it is. You learn to stop comparing yourself to others as you focus on your growth.
- Improved self-defense skills: With every class you take, you will have a greater understanding of how to defend yourself. In our classes, you can expect to learn what to do against a stronger, more aggressive opponent. This includes taking a fight to the ground and knowing what to do when you’re no longer on your feet.
- Better physical health: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu helps you improve your physical health in different ways. These benefits range from greater flexibility to more core strength. You will find yourself having better footwork and cardio over time as you train consistently.
- New friends: There’s nothing like positivity that comes from making friends through Jiu Jitsu! The friends you make on the mats are truly one of a kind. They’ll push you mentally and physically as you work on your skills. Your BJJ friends will also encourage you along the way to help you be your best self.
- Improved problem-solving abilities: Pushing yourself on the mats to learn and grow helps you get better at critical thinking. You’ll get faster at making connections between various concepts you learn while doing Jiu Jitsu.
What can I expect from a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class at Absolute MMA?
Our BJJ classes are led by Professor Rob Handley who received his blackbelt from Grand Master Flavio Behring. You can expect high-level instruction that comes directly from Professor Rob’s experience.
Warmups
Professor Rob’s classes begin with warmups that help you mentally and physically be ready for class. You go through basic movements that will you get used to moving correctly during the first 10-15 minutes. These movements include front rolls, back rolls, shrimps, break falls, and more. Participating in warmups will help you get in the right headspace to learn jiu jitsu.
Drilling and technique
After warming up, you start learning and drilling techniques for about 45-50 minutes. He’ll demonstrate the moves and coach you through proper movements. You will work with your training partners on techniques to perfect your movements and Jiu Jitsu abilities.
Over time, you will develop an arsenal of moves including escapes, sweeps, takedowns, and submissions. You’ll be more familiar with terms like open guard and closed guard. As you regularly train, you will also start understand how different concepts and techniques connect to each other.
Rolling/sparring
Open mat or live rolling/sparring is after the drilling portion of the class for roughly 20-25 minutes. Rolling is your opportunity to practice moves you’ve learned against a resisting opponent.
Rounds are typically five minutes long with a minute break between rounds. A sparring exchange between you and your training partner will go until you or your opponent tap/submit during a round. Keep in mind that open mat is about training and getting more mat experience.
What do I need to wear for BJJ?
In the world of BJJ, there are two main categories which are Gi or No Gi. It’s important to know what separates the two so you know what to wear to class. Here are the differences:
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi
Gi refers to the traditional uniform used in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu which is a robe-like top complete with a belt and pants. You can easily purchase a Gi online directly from Gi retailers and sites like Amazon. You should also make sure you order a BJJ white belt to train.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu No Gi
No Gi is the absence of the Gi. Acceptable clothing for No Gi are rashguards, t-shirts, shorts without pockets, and spats.
Gi and No Gi at Absolute MMA
At Absolute MMA, we offer both Gi and No Gi classes. Visit this link to see our class schedule. It’s not uncommon for people to attend Gi classes and then stay for No Gi.
Mouthguards are recommended for Jiu Jitsu
We also recommend wearing a mouthguard for rolling/sparring. Mouthguards help you reduce injuries to your mouth and teeth since rolling is full-contact. The mouthguard you choose should fit well in your mouth and be comfortable when being used.
How can I get in shape for BJJ?
The best way to get shape for BJJ is to start doing BJJ. Our classes at Absolute MMA will teach how to warm up properly and train. Regular training will result in you getting in better shape. Your strength and flexibility will increase. Your capacity to push yourself through tough situations will improve thanks to your improved fitness and mental fortitude.
Join us for your FREE 1-week trial!
It’s time to begin your Jiu Jitsu journey! This is your opportunity to try out all of our classes at Absolute MMA. Sign up using this link: https://absolutemma.com/free-trial/