Getting Started at MBJJA

Thinking About Giving Jiu Jitsu a Go?

You don’t need to get fitter or stronger, you just need to start. Anything new can be a daunting, especially when it's a martial art you've never tried before. People start training for all sorts of reasons. Some want to learn self-defence, others want to get fitter, challenge themselves or find something they genuinely enjoy doing.

Whatever your reason, you're welcome to come along and give it a go.

[Enquire About Your First Class]

What Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on controlling an opponent using positioning, leverage and technique.

Unlike martial arts that involve punching and kicking, BJJ primarily involves takedowns, ground control and submissions such as joint locks and chokes.

One of the things that makes BJJ different is that you get to practise your skills against a resisting training partner. It's not just about learning techniques, but developing the ability to use them.

BJJ can be physically demanding, mentally challenging and, at times, frustrating. But that's also what makes it so rewarding. There's always something to work on, and no matter how long you've been training, there's always more to learn.

Your First Class

We understand that walking into a martial arts academy for the first time can feel intimidating.

You might be wondering whether you'll be able to keep up, what you'll be expected to do, or whether you'll be thrown straight into sparring with someone who knows what they're doing.

Don't worry, we don't expect you to know anything.

We'll introduce you to the other members, explain how things work and help you through the session.

Depending on the class, you'll learn some basic movements, practise techniques with a partner and get an idea of what training involves.

You won't be expected to do anything you're not comfortable with, and there's no pressure to jump straight into live sparring.

Just turn up, have a go and see what you think.

What Should I Wear?

You don't need to buy any special equipment before your first class.

Comfortable gym clothes are fine. A T-shirt and shorts are a good option.

Bring a water bottle and make sure your clothes are clean. We train barefoot on the mats, so please keep your fingernails and toenails trimmed.

If you decide to keep training, we can help you with any equipment you'll need.

Do I Need to Be Fit?

No. You don't need to get fit before starting Jiu Jitsu.

Like any physical activity, BJJ can be demanding, particularly when you're first learning. You'll probably find yourself using muscles you didn't know you had.

But that's part of the process.

Everyone starts at a different level, and you'll develop your fitness, coordination and skills as you train.

The important thing is to work at your own pace, be consistent and give yourself time to improve.

What's the Academy Like?

MBJJA is a small, community-focused academy where people come together to learn and enjoy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

We take the martial art seriously, but the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.

You'll find people with different backgrounds, abilities and reasons for training. Some enjoy the technical side of BJJ, some like the physical challenge, and others simply enjoy being part of the group.

We encourage everyone to train hard, look after their training partners and help each other improve.

We want MBJJA to be somewhere people look forward to coming, where they feel comfortable learning, making mistakes and getting better over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I get hurt?

BJJ is a contact sport, so there's always some risk of injury. We place a lot of importance on training safely, controlling your movements and looking after your partners.

Do I have to compete?

Not at all. Competition is there for anyone interested, but plenty of people train simply because they enjoy it.

What if I'm nervous?

That's normal. Most people are a little nervous before their first class. You'll find that our members are friendly and happy to help newcomers.

Can I watch a class before joining in?

Of course. If you'd rather come down, meet everyone and see what training looks like first, that's completely fine.

Come and Give It a Go

You don't need any experience, special equipment or a particular level of fitness to get started.

If you've been thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, come along and see what it's about.

Get in touch with us, ask any questions you might have, or arrange to come down for a class.