A first jiu-jitsu class is a warm-up, a technique or two shown by the coach, and practice with a partner. You don’t need to know anything, be in shape, or own any equipment. At Gracie Barra Ocotillo the gi is provided for your first class.
What happens in a first class?
Most beginner classes follow the same shape:
- Warm-up. Movements you’ll use in jiu-jitsu: rolling forward and backward, scooting on your hips, getting up from the ground safely. If something is new, the coach will show you.
- Technique. The coach demonstrates a technique, usually one escape, control or self-defense move, and explains why it works.
- Drilling. You practice it with a partner, slowly, taking turns. Your partner lets you do it so you can learn the movement.
- Applying it. In many classes the partner then adds a little resistance, starting from a set position, so you can feel the technique working.
Beginner classes at Gracie Barra Ocotillo are GB1 Fundamentals for adults and the age-group classes for kids. You’ll be with other people who are new or still early in their training.
What should I wear and bring?
Bring water. Wear athletic clothes without zippers, pockets or buttons, since those can catch fingers and toes. We provide a gi for your first class; wear a fitted t-shirt and shorts or leggings underneath.
Take off jewelry, including rings, and trim your fingernails and toenails short. Bring sandals or slides for walking to the restroom; shoes don’t go on the mat, and bare feet don’t go off it.
Sign the waiver ahead of time to save a few minutes: sign it online.
Will I have to spar on the first day?
Not the way you’re probably picturing. Beginner classes put most of the time into learning and drilling technique. When there is live practice, it usually starts from a specific position, at a controlled pace, with a partner your coach picks. You can sit out any round, and nobody will think twice about it.
How do I avoid getting hurt?
- Tap early. Tapping your partner (or the mat) two or three times means “stop.” Tap as soon as something feels uncomfortable, not when it hurts. Everyone taps, including black belts.
- Let go when your partner taps. Release right away.
- Go slower than you think you need to. Beginners get hurt most often by using strength and speed instead of technique.
- Tell the coach about injuries before class so they can adjust what you do.
Is there etiquette I should know?
A few things, and nobody expects you to know them on day one:
- Be on time, and if you’re late, wait at the edge of the mat until the coach waves you in.
- Wear a clean gi or clean clothes every class. Jiu-jitsu is close contact, so hygiene matters to everyone.
- Shake hands or fist-bump your partner before and after you train with them.
- If you’re sick or have a skin issue such as a rash, cut or ringworm, skip class until it clears.
What if I’m bringing my child?
Kids classes at Gracie Barra Ocotillo are grouped by age: 3–4, 5–6, 7–9 and 10–14. The booking form only shows classes for your child’s age group. Arrive 15 minutes early so the front desk can fit them for a gi. For 5- and 6-year-olds, intro classes are Tuesday and Thursday at 5:00 PM. Kids programs
What happens after the first class?
If you liked it, the next step is a second class, not a big decision. Talk with the front desk about membership when you’re ready; memberships are month to month with 30 days’ notice to cancel. Most beginners do best with two or three classes a week. How often adults should train
Book your first class
Pick a beginner class for your age on the free intro class page, or call (480) 512-9177. The academy is at 5505 S Lindsay Rd, Suite 103, Gilbert, on the northeast corner of Lindsay Rd and Ocotillo Rd.
