Starting your Jiu Jitsu journey is an exciting decision, but before you dive into the world of chokes, joint locks, and rolling on the mats, there are a few essential steps you should take to ensure a smooth transition into this incredible martial art. Here are 6 things every beginner should do before starting jiu jitsu for the first time:

1. Do Your Homework:

   Before you step onto the mat, it's crucial to understand what Jiu Jitsu is all about. Watch videos, read books, and follow Jiu Jitsu practitioners online. Familiarize yourself with the basic concepts, terminology, and the rich history of this martial art. Knowledge is your first line of defense. Having some familiarization with the sports helps the alien-like transition. That said, don’t compare yourself to ‘athletes’ who do this as a job, realize that there is a difference between a generalist and full-time practitioner.

2. Find the Right Gym:

   Not all Jiu Jitsu gyms are created equal. Research gyms in your area, read reviews, and ask for recommendations. Visit a few different gyms if possible to get a feel for their culture and teaching style. Finding the right gym with experienced and supportive instructors can make all the difference in your journey. Your longevity on the sport is likely based off your experience and time on the mats.

3. Invest in the Right Gear:

   Jiu Jitsu requires specific gear, including a Gi (uniform), belt, rashguard, and shorts. Invest in quality gear that fits comfortably and meets your gym's requirements. Your gear should enhance your experience, not hinder it. Luckily it’s relatively cheap all things considered. Oftentimes the gi is given to you during sign-up and there isn’t really anything else needed. Time on the mats is really the most important thing you need to invest in.

4. Prepare Physically:

   Jiu Jitsu can be physically demanding, so it's a good idea to be in decent shape before you start. Regular exercise and conditioning can help prevent injuries and make your early days on the mats more enjoyable. Focus on improving your flexibility, strength, and cardio fitness. That said, jiu jitsu in itself is a great way to get in plenty of exercise for the general hobbyist.

5. Understand the Etiquette:

   Jiu Jitsu has its own set of etiquette and unwritten rules. Learn how to tie your belt, how to bow on and off the mat, and how to roll safely with training partners. Respect for your instructors and training partners is paramount in Jiu Jitsu. Your professor and other students should make this a seamless transition.

6. Embrace the Beginner's Mindset:

   Perhaps the most crucial step is to embrace the mindset of a beginner. You don't need to be in peak physical condition or have any prior martial arts experience to start Jiu Jitsu. Your journey will involve moments of frustration and setbacks, but that's all part of the process. Just take that first step onto the mat. The only way to truly understand Jiu Jitsu is to experience it firsthand. Go to class, take notes, go back to class and don’t stop. You'll learn and grow as you go, and that's the beauty of this martial art.

There's a cliche but important saying: "The hardest part is showing up."

So, don't wait until you feel completely ready because you might never feel 100% prepared. If you skip all of these 6 steps, so what… Take the leap, join a class, and begin your Jiu Jitsu journey.

The sooner you start, the sooner you'll reap the rewards of this incredible martial art. Remember, every black belt was once a beginner who simply took that first step onto the mat.

Tim