You’ve been hearing your work colleague talk about this thing called Jiu-Jitsu for a while and how awesome it is; or maybe you’ve been looking for ways to get fit, lose some weight, improve health that are more fun and exciting than running on a treadmill or lifting weights; maybe you want to learn how to defend yourself; maybe you’re a MMA fan and decided to give Jiu-Jitsu a try – you always heard about the Gracie family and how they pioneered in the sport. Well, after all the pressure – lol – you finally decided to give it a try. You did a good research in your area, found a good school, signed up, bought your uniform. Now What?!?! “Well, now I just need to show up, right?!”

Here are a few advices for you that are starting Jiu-Jitsu:

Show up – It seems obvious, no? If you want to get good at something you need to put in work. Showing up is the minimum you can do. The thing is, soon you will realize that Jiu-Jitsu demands a lot of our bodies and mind and some days you’re not gonna feel like doing it. These days are important, in my opinion, for 2 reasons: They are teaching you a lesson, all you need to do is pay attention in order to learn. Either you’re going too hard too soon and really need a break or you’re mind already realized that is going to be a long, difficult (but totally worthy) journey and is trying to trick you in to take the path of least resistance. Figure out which is which and address the situation.
Focus on concepts rather than moves – Understanding general concepts are the best way to start Jiu-Jitsu. The names, techniques, variations etc can be overwhelming and even discouraging at first. Focusing on the different concepts – grips, frames, distance control, top vs bottom position and their different goals, when to push vs when to pull etc – will help you overcome the frustration of trying all those moves your professor showed and that you can’t seem to do it when sparring; instead you will develop a better understanding of “the game” that Jiu-Jitsu is and with time and consistency all those techniques will make sense and fall in place.
Fundamentals are KING. Don’t overlook it – Don’t fall for the “shiny”, fancy, “spinning upside-down” techniques right away. They have their place and time in your journey. Focus on the basics. There’s no time where Fundamentals don’t matter. Properly assimilating the Fundamentals of Jiu-Jitsu will give you a strong foundation of the art and is that foundation that will allow you to progress to the more advanced techniques.
Ask questions. ALWAYS! – No explanation needed. Have questions? Ask. Not sure? Ask. In doubt? Ask. Need advice? Ask.

Remember that these are not ends in and of themselves but instead tools to help you get the most out of your journey. These are just my 2%.

Jiu-Jitsu is a long, exciting journey and teaches us more about ourselves than anything else. Enjoy the ride!!!!

See you on the mats!!!