Part 1: Essential Tips for Your First Jiu-Jitsu Classes

Your first weeks will be a period of discovery. Your body will learn new movements, and your mind will absorb new concepts. Here are some practical tips to make this initial phase easier.

1. What to Wear and Bring

For your trial class, you do not need a special uniform (Gi). Opt for comfortable athletic clothing without zippers, buttons, or pockets, which could get snagged or scratch a training partner. A t-shirt or rashguard and athletic shorts or leggings are perfect. Also, remember to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated and flip-flops to wear off the mat.

2. Focus on Survival, Not Winning

When you start sparring (“rolar”), your main goal is not to submit your partner. It is to learn how to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations. Focus on your breathing, protecting your neck, and trying to apply the defensive concepts taught in class. The learning is in the process, not the outcome.

3. Ask Questions

No one expects you to know everything. If you do not understand a technique or a term, ask! Our instructors at Gracie Barra Valencia are here to help. A curious mind learns much faster. Your training partners are also an excellent source of information and support.

4. Embrace Repetition (Drilling)

You will repeat the same movements hundreds of times. This is by design. “Drilling” is how your body develops muscle memory, allowing you to execute techniques instinctively under pressure. Learn to love the repetition, as it is the true path to proficiency.

5. Listen to Your Body

Jiu-Jitsu is physically demanding. You will feel sore in muscles you did not know you had. It is crucial to distinguish between muscle fatigue and pain from a potential injury. Rest when you need to. Progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a marathon, and staying healthy is the most important thing.

Part 2: Tatami Etiquette – The Code of Conduct on the Mat

The tatame is our sanctuary. It is where we learn, grow, and challenge each other in a safe and respectful manner. This is only possible because we all follow a code of etiquette.

1. Hygiene is a Sign of Respect

This is the golden rule. Your personal hygiene directly affects the health and safety of the entire team.

• Clean Uniform: Always come to class with a clean Gi or No-Gi attire.

• Trimmed Nails: Keep your fingernails and toenails short and trimmed to avoid scratching your partners.

• Remove Jewelry: All watches, rings, necklaces, and piercings must be removed before stepping on the mat.

• Personal Cleanliness: Come to class clean. It is a sign of respect for those you will be training with.

2. Respect the Space

• Bowing: It is a tradition to bow when entering and leaving the mat. This is a sign of respect for the training space and everyone in it.

• No Shoes on the Mat: Never step on the tatame with shoes. Use your flip-flops to get from the changing room to the edge of the mat. This keeps our training surface clean and hygienic.

3. Respect Your Instructors and Teammates

• Pay Attention: When the instructor is demonstrating a technique, stop what you are doing, sit or kneel quietly, and listen attentively.

• Address Instructors Correctly: Typically, black belt instructors are called “Professor.” Other coaches may be called “Coach” or by their first name, depending on the academy’s culture.

• Be a Good Partner: Your training partners are essential for your development. Train with control, be mindful of size and experience differences, and never aim to injure someone. You are both there to learn.

4. The Tap is Sacred

The tap is the most important mechanism for safety in Jiu-Jitsu.

• How to Tap: You can tap firmly with your hand on your partner or on the mat. If your hands are trapped, you can tap with your feet or say “Tap!” verbally.

• Respect the Tap Immediately: The moment your partner taps, you must release the submission instantly. There is no excuse for holding on.

• Tap Early, Tap Often: Tapping is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of intelligence. It means you recognized you were caught and chose to protect your body to train another day.