Starting anything new can be daunting and intimidating, and starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is no exception. Below are 5 important tips to help you get off to a smooth start.
Tip #1: Do Your Research
Chances are once you find a good school you'll be there for a while, so take some time visiting schools and trying out the free classes. Pay attention to the things that are most important to you. How's the instruction, is the place clean, what's the atmosphere like? These are just a few things to pay attention to when looking for your school.
Tip #2: Don't Compare
You may have an established idea of what progress looks like, but when it comes to Jiu Jitsu you have to fail your way to success. The best question when gauging your growth is to compare who you are in that moment to who you were when you first started training. Most of the time comparing yourself to other students will help set unrealistic expectations.
Tip #3: Master The Art of Attendance
Most schools will have a set curriculum when it comes to which techniques they teach. Making a commitment to training on a regular basis will help you gain confidence in your technique and ensure you get enough repetition in your training. As Professor Tony says, "Aim for 3, make 2". Make 3 classes a week your goal, but at minimum hit 2 classes.
Tip #4: Eat, Drink, Recover
Once you begin training food will become more about being the fuel that drives you and less about filling your tummy up. Drink plenty of water and try your best to eat healthy foods. There are tons of "diets" out there, but some small changes in your diet could prove to be the difference. Rest is a must and you must adopt new ways to help your body recover from training in order to stick with Jiu Jitsu for the long haul.
Tip #5: Have Fun
Jiu Jitsu isn't like baseball or basketball, there is no off-season, BJJ is year round and hopefully something you do for the rest of your life. So have fun with it, set goals and crush them. Enjoy the moments as a beginner because one day you'll look back at these early days with a high level of fondness.
We look forward to helping you get started in your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey!
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