First BJJ Training Session: How to Prepare? What to Bring?

What to bring to a BJJ training session?

Whether you are going to your first or your hundredth training session, your bag should contain the following items: - training outfit, - a bottle / water flask, - flip-flops, - a change of clothes and underwear, - a towel, - shower accessories (if the club offers a facility to freshen up after training). Leave all valuable items, such as your phone, keys, and wallet, in the locker in the changing room or in a designated area if the club has one.

Outfit for your first BJJ training

For your first class, a comfortable outfit consisting of a t-shirt and training shorts is more than enough. Once you catch the bug, it will be time to invest in training gear designed for jiujiteiros.

BJJ Gi - purchasing a gi comes with a bigger expense, so don't buy one until you are sure that Brazilian jiu-jitsu is the combat sport for you - you will know this after just a few training sessions. You will also need a white belt for the kimono. All Ground Game gis come in sets with a free belt included.

Rashguard - a fundamental piece of armor for every BJJ fighter. A rashguard comes in handy not only for no-gi training, but also as a base layer under the kimono. It acts like a second skin, protecting you from abrasions and scratches. A rashguard also has a thermoregulatory function, wicking away sweat and keeping your body at an optimal temperature.

Leggings / Vale Tudo Shorts - Just like a rashguard, Vale Tudo shorts and leggings are also compression wear items. Choose them if you prefer pants that fit tightly to the body. Shorts or leggings are also often worn under gi pants as a protective layer.

MMA Shorts - are a great alternative to Vale Tudo shorts, in which not everyone may feel comfortable. MMA shorts differ from typical training shorts not only in cut, but also in durability. They do not restrict movement, and their seams are additionally reinforced so they won't tear during a fight. You can buy training clothes yourself in our Ground Game store (online or in-person in Szczecin). It is also worth asking the coach with whom you started classes whether they have a discount with us. We cooperate with clubs and coaches from all over Poland who regularly place wholesale orders with us. This way, you will get an attractive discount to start your BJJ adventure.

Are protective guards necessary for your first BJJ training?

Not for your first class. But again, as with the outfit, when you decide to train regularly, make sure to invest in a mouthguard and a groin guard. These two gadgets will protect you from pain and the unpleasant consequences of missed hits from your partner.

How to prepare for training?

Once you know what to bring to class, it's time for some information on how to prepare physically and mentally. Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a contact sport, so take care not only of your own comfort, but also that of your mat teammates. Before training, freshen up, take a shower, wash your hands and feet. Cut your nails, remove jewelry (necklaces, rings, wedding bands, bracelets, earrings, etc.). Make sure your training outfit is clean and washed.

If you get stressed and lose confidence in yourself, take a few deep breaths and focus on positive thoughts. Remember that every black belt, every world champion, once started out and was in your shoes. If you are starting training with a beginner group, you won't be the only person learning the BJJ basics. Joining a group that has already been training for a while? Approach the coach before class and introduce yourself. This way, they will keep an eye on you and pay more attention to you during the first class so you can quickly get into the flow of training.

Do you need to be fit to start BJJ training?

Not necessarily. To learn techniques, you need to regularly refine them in BJJ training sessions. Therefore, the key to success will be your consistency and self-discipline. Classes and sparring are very demanding, so you will improve your fitness and build muscle anyway.

However, your Brazilian jiu-jitsu workouts will definitely be more effective if you take care of your body's recovery (remember regular sleep and a balanced diet) and supplement them with additional mobility, strength, and endurance exercises. If a healthy lifestyle is new to you, you will see that by starting Brazilian jiu-jitsu training, you will get hooked on this world, and your body and mind will only thank you for it :)