Top Facts About Jiu-Jitsu For Beginners

Beginning training in Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a life-changing decision. Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best self-defence sports in the arena of combative sports and can benefit you both physically and mentally. Classes aimed at Jiu-Jitsu for beginners are full of fun, dynamism and positivity.

Starting classes of Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) the Jiu Jitsu beginner will soon discover that learning is a very “hands on” approach. Once a Jiu Jitsu beginner passes through the first few months of training they stand a very high chance of staying for life!

History

Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) came into being when Japanese martial arts expert Mitsuyo Maeda arrived in Brazil, at the request of Gastao Gracie in 1914 to train Carlos Gracie snr, who later taught his younger brother Helio Gracie. By the 1920’s Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) was established. 

Basics of Jiu-Jitsu

The focus of Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is to use controls of leverage and superior position to subdue the opponent and apply chokes and joint locks. Followers of Judo and Wrestling will realise that Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is very much an intellectual game - in fact, many say it’s more like playing chess than checkers. Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is predominantly fought on the ground however many controls and submissions are also available standing.

Additionally, similar to any great martial art, Jiu Jtsu (BJJ) is based on respect, honour and tradition , whilst combining massive sporting attributes. To make the best use of classes, the Jiu Jitsu beginner should keep an open mind and study ther strategy behind the techniques rather than focus on the techniques alone.

Preparation for first class

Beginners of Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) may be a little nervous at classes, but they can be assured that this is going to be a big adventure that will lead to self-confidence, increased strength, increased flexibility, and more to shape not only their Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), but in many aspects, their life!

There are both Gi and Nogi classes. It is mandatory to wear a Gi to all Gi classes - many academies will have their specific uniform to purchase, hire or loan. Nogi attire will also be particular to the academy, so just ask at the front desk, what the protocol is to be sure.

• Bottle of water 
• Pair of flip-flops
• An open mind

First sessions

When it comes to Jiu-Jitsu for beginners, it has warm-up sessions like any other sport. But one must save up enough energy for the later sessions. Being a beginner, one will spend maximum time watching the instructor display basic techniques and recount their logic. 

Firstly, students will learn various positions on the ground, such as the following: 

• Side control
• Guard (half guard, closed and open positions)
• Back mount
• Full mount

Typically, the beginner in Jiu Jitsu, will learn a guard pass, a sweep (inversion from guard) all while learning how to maintain the guard defense, strong base and posture.

Techniques

Techniques are many and varied. A good academy will focus on great fundamentals of base, balance and leverage allowing for many positional upgrades and submissions. 

Take note that Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is all about positions prior to submissions. The Jiu Jitsu beginner will follow processes allowing themselves to train with a partner, freely exchanging positions and submissions, under the watchful eye of the instructor.

After basic positions are learned and the strategy begins - the excitement is evident and the Jiu Jitsu drug has begun its addiction.

These are all top facts about Jiu-Jitsu for beginners.

About This Author

de Been 100% Jiu Jitsu Joined: January 27th, 2021