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Writer's pictureOwain

I want to start grappling/BJJ, what now?

Updated: Aug 12





If you are thinking of starting BJJ or grappling, you probably have a lot of questions. After all, it is always a big leap to start learning anything new, let alone a martial art.  


I’ve been training in grappling martial arts for over 15 years, I have trained at several different gyms and have helped countless friends and students get started with grappling. In this guide, I answer some of the most common questions people have when getting started with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and grappling, I also explain exactly how you can get the most from the start of your exciting new journey. 


Do I need to be fit to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? 


Fitness is undeniably a competitive advance when learning BJJ. After all, the fitter you are, the more you can train without needing to stop to recover. Plus, if you want to get to the highest levels of grappling, an elite fitness level is essential.


But your fitness level has little impact on your ability to start learning. In fact, training in BJJ and grappling is by far the best way to increase your fitness level for future grappling success. 


Whatever your ability, your instructor should be able to tailor sessions and techniques in ways that make them achievable for you. Training consistently will help you build your fitness levels and confidence, allowing you to push yourself further over time. 


However, it is important to bear in mind that instructors will tend to tailor classes of multiple participants to the average ability and fitness level of the group. If you are very concerned about your fitness levels and ability to keep up, you may benefit from investing in 1-to-1 lessons to get you started. 


Do I need any specialist equipment? 




No. You don’t really need anything special or expensive to get started in grappling. Although investing in specialist equipment such as grappling shorts, rashguards and gis will likely be beneficial as your journey continues, you certainly don’t need to them to start. Even when the time comes to invest, there is a wide range of training gear to choose from ranging from budget-friendly to mega-expensive. 


Note: Some BJJ schools will only let you train in their branded gear (not Borderlands Grappling). In these cases, yes you will need to purchase specialist equipment to get started in BJJ. 


Although you don’t need all the Gucci kit to get started with grappling, it is important to avoid using clothing with any hard plastic/metal toggles or zips as these can hurt you and/or your training partners. Where possible you should also avoid wearing overly baggy clothing or clothing with pockets as fingers can get trapped in these during sparring 


What should I take to my first grappling class? 


When you turn up to your first grappling class, you may spot some behemoth duffle bags filled with everything from bucket loads of pain medication to countless rolls of finger tape, but in reality, all you really need to start grappling is: 


  • Shorts and t-shirt or equivalent clothing you are happy getting pulled about and sweaty (for no-gi)

  • A gi and belt (for gi) 

  • Water to keep you hydrated 

  • Gum shield for sparring 


Oh, and a positive attitude and openness to learning something new.


What rules will I need to follow?


There is a difference between the rules of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and the rules of your club. The rules of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu depend on the organisation you are competing under and we won't be covering those in this guide. Every grappling club has a different set of rules and ways of doing things. Your instructor should inform you of these once you start training.

However, almost every club has several set rules to help keep everyone safe, these include:


  1. No shoes on the mat/shoes when off the mat (to keep dirt off the mats)

  2. Listening carefully when the instructor is talking, whether that be about safety or showing a technique

  3. Maintain an acceptable level of personal hygiene

  4. Be on time for class

  5. Keeping finger and toenails cut and well-maintained 

  6. Remove all jewellery and piercings before class 

  7. Be aware of your surroundings and help maintain a safe environment 

  8. If you are sick, stay at home 

  9. Look after yourself and your training partners during practice and sparring 


How do I pick a BJJ school? 


Grappling and BJJ are exploding in popularity in the UK and across the world, with new schools popping up every month. Many of these schools are excellent, with fantastic coaches who act with your best interests at heart. Although, unfortunately, there are some terrible schools out there.


Here are some steps to help you pick a good school: 


Find your options


Start by doing a Google search to see where you may be able to train close by. 


Research the instructors


Look at their lineage, their background, their grade, the training they have had and their success in the BJJ world.


Although there is no single perfect metric that will show if an instructor is good, things like proper first-aid training, DBS checks, instructor qualifications, safeguard qualifications and registration with established BJJ bodies can be indicators of a legitimate instructor. 


Get the inside scoop 


If you know someone who attends that school, their testimonial will be invaluable in helping you understand if it’s the right school for you. Ask them what the instructor is like, what other students are like and how the classes are run. 


Take a trial class 


If you are still unsure about whether a school is right for you, you can approach the instructor and ask them if you can take a trail class. This is the best way to really see if the school is a good fit.


Just remember, a trial class is just that, don’t feel pressured to sign up for a membership straight away. You are well within your right to ask for some time to consider your options. 


Start grappling and BJJ in Ludlow, Shropshire 


If you are located in Ludlow or the surrounding areas and would like to give grappling a try, we welcome you to join us at Borderlands Grappling. We pride ourselves on our friendly, safe environment where you can try martial arts in Ludlow, get fit and learn something new.


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