What to expect at your first Ju-Jitsu session
If you are new to the world of martial arts, Jujitsu is an ideal place to get started. Not only will you have loads of fun along the way, and you will also learn the skills of one of the most diverse martial arts in existence.
When you arrive at the gym, you'll likely be greeted by the instructor or a staff member. They'll give you a quick tour of the facility and explain Ju-Jitsu basics. You'll also be introduced to some of the other students.
What Will You Learn
Jujitsu, or Ju-Jitsu, spans across a broad range of different skills and techniques. Where other martial arts, such as Judo and Karate, simply focus on punching, kicking and throwing, Jujitsu spans across a much broader range of techniques. Throughout your journey towards mastering the art, you will learn skills not only in punching, kicking and throwing but also in joint locks, ground-work and weapon use, preparing you for any given situation.
To make sure you are getting the most out of your training sessions, we will introduce all of the most commonly used Jujitsu terminology along the way.
Self-Defence
The most common reason why people take up the art of Jujitsu is self-defence. Given the variety of techniques used in Jujitsu, you will be able to protect yourself in many different scenarios.
Fitness
Jujitsu has undeniable health benefits, regardless of your fitness level prior to getting started. If you are interested in boosting your stamina and agility, then jujitsu is for you.
Self-Confidence
This is one of the lesser-known benefits of progressing in Jujitsu. The confidence which you learn in the martial art will be transferred to other parts of your life, making you an overall more confident person.
Fun
Many people have trouble finding the motivation to work out in a gym to keep in good shape. Jujitsu is a great alternative, as it will help you to improve your fitness and agility while having fun at the same time. As well as learning new skills and seeing yourself progress rapidly, you will make some good new friends along the way.
What you’ll need to bring
If you're planning to attend your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) session, there are a few essential items that you'll need to bring along. Here's a list of items that you should consider taking with you:
Comfortable Clothing: BJJ involves a lot of grappling and ground work, so it's important to wear clothing that allows you to move freely. A rash guard or fitted T-shirt, paired with shorts or joggers, is ideal. Avoid wearing anything with pockets or zippers, as these can get caught and cause injury.
A Gi (Optional): When training in Jujitsu, students traditionally wear a standard martial arts kimono, often referred to as a 'gi'. If the gym you're attending requires a traditional gi, make sure to purchase one before your first session. A gi is a traditional uniform worn in Ju-Jitsu; both Traditional Japanese and Brazilian (BJJ), and typically consists of a jacket, pants, and a belt. Make sure to check with the gym about the colour requirements before making a purchase.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is extremely important during any physical activity, so make sure to bring a water bottle with you to your session.
Towel: You're going to sweat a lot during your BJJ session, so it's always a good idea to bring a towel to wipe away any sweat.
Positive Attitude: Lastly, make sure to bring a positive attitude with you. BJJ is a challenging sport that requires a lot of mental and physical strength, so it's important to approach your first session with an open mind and a willingness to learn.
By bringing these items with you to your first session, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of this exciting martial art.
