How to Prepare for Your First Jiu Jitsu Class

Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is exciting, but walking into your first class can feel intimidating. You may be wondering what to wear, what to bring, and what to expect. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. At Veritas BJJ, we love welcoming beginners and making their first experience on the mats positive and fun.
Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your first Jiu Jitsu class.



1. What to Wear to Your First Class
If it’s a Gi class: Wear a Gi (uniform) if you already own one, or borrow/rent one from the gym. A t-shirt and athletic shorts underneath work well.
If it’s a No-Gi class: Wear comfortable, fitted athletic clothing such as rash guards, leggings, or compression shorts. Avoid clothing with zippers or buttons, as they can scratch training partners.
Pro tip: bring flip-flops or sandals for walking off the mat—bare feet are only for the mats.



2. What to Bring With You
A bottle of water to stay hydrated
A towel (optional, but useful)
A positive attitude and willingness to learn
You don’t need special gear for your very first class—most gyms, including Veritas BJJ, will help beginners with uniforms and equipment until they decide to commit.



3. Basic Etiquette to Know
Jiu Jitsu has a strong culture of respect and discipline. A few simple rules go a long way:
Bow or acknowledge your instructor when stepping on the mats
Keep your nails trimmed and your training clothes clean
Show respect to your training partners—everyone is here to learn and grow
Listen closely to your instructor’s directions



4. What to Expect During Class
Most classes include:
Warm-ups – stretching, drills, and movements to prepare your body
Technique instruction – the instructor demonstrates a move, then you practice with a partner
Drilling – repeating the technique to build muscle memory
Rolling (sparring) – controlled sparring where you apply techniques against a resisting partner (beginners may start slow or watch before participating)
You don’t need to know anything in advance—just pay attention, ask questions, and try your best.



5. Mindset for Your First Class
Be patient with yourself. Nobody masters Jiu Jitsu in one day.
Focus on learning, not winning. Every class is about progress, not perfection.
Have fun! Jiu Jitsu is a journey that challenges your body and mind while building lifelong friendships.



6. After Class
Expect to be sore (in a good way!). Drink plenty of water, get a good night’s sleep, and come back as soon as possible—consistency is the key to growth in Jiu Jitsu.



Final Thoughts
Your first Jiu Jitsu class is the beginning of an incredible journey. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll feel comfortable, confident, and ready to learn.
At Veritas BJJ, we love helping beginners take their first steps on the mats. Whether you’re here for fitness, self-defense, or a new hobby, Jiu Jitsu has something to offer everyone.
👉 Ready to try your first class? Sign up today at Veritas BJJ and see why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is life-changing.