Thinking About Starting? Just Do It!
If you've been thinking about trying out a grappling sport like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), judo, or wrestling, there’s no better time than now to jump in and give it a shot. You don’t need to have years of experience or even any specialized gear to get started - just show up, and the rest will follow!
Find a Gym You Can Trust
First things first, find a local gym where you feel comfortable. Look for gyms with good reviews or a gym where you know someone who already trains there. This will give you a sense of the environment and the community. You don’t need to stress about finding the perfect gym right away, but a friendly atmosphere where people are welcoming to newcomers is key. Many gyms also offer free trials, so you can try a class or two with no commitment. This is a great way to see if the gym and training style are a good fit for you!
You Don’t Need Fancy Gear to Start
One of the best things about grappling sports is that you don’t need to rush out and buy expensive equipment before you even step foot on the mat. Most gyms have gi’s (the uniform) and belts that you can borrow when you start. They’ll make sure you have everything you need for your first class, and you can focus on learning the basics. However, there are a few essentials you’ll need to bring yourself. This bare minimum gear can’t be shared for hygiene reasons - it's important to keep these items personal to ensure the health and safety of both yourself and your training partners. Here’s what you need:
1. Flip Flops
You’ll want to wear flip flops when you enter the gym and walk around the mat area. Why? It’s all about hygiene. You don’t want to track dirt or germs onto the mats where you’ll be rolling around. Wearing flip flops helps keep the mats clean and ensures you're not bringing anything from the outside world into the gym. You probably already have some but if not, we like these ones because they're inexpensive and easy to clean!
2. Nail Clippers with a Nail File
Grappling can get pretty intense, and nobody wants to accidentally scratch their partner during training. Keep your nails trimmed and smooth by bringing nail clippers and a file with you. Not only is this a safety issue for your teammates, but it’s also a way to show respect. Most gyms will remind you to clip your nails before class, so it’s a good habit to get into early. Again you probably already have some lying around, but if not we like these inexpensive ones that have a conveniently attached file.
3. Mouth Guard
Whether you're doing BJJ, judo, or wrestling, a mouth guard is a must-have for protecting your teeth. In grappling sports, you'll be engaging in close contact with your training partners, and the risk of getting hit in the face or mouth is real. A mouth guard is a simple and effective way to protect your teeth from injury. We use this one, which is really comfortable even during talking or drinking water. If you have braces or other dental hardware, you may need a specialized mouth guard that fits your needs like this one (which unfortunately isn't as comfortable but is the best one we've tried).
4. Water Bottle
Training in grappling sports can be physically demanding, so staying hydrated is a must. Bring a water bottle to class, and make sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after training. Not only will it keep you energized, but it also helps prevent dehydration, which is important for recovery and performance. Just bring whatever water bottle you have at home.
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Just Show Up and Start
When you're getting started, don’t worry about being perfect. It’s all about showing up and giving it a try. You’ll learn new skills, make friends, and get in shape - plus, you’ll gain confidence with every class. So, what are you waiting for? The hardest part is just walking through the door. After that, you’ll be hooked!