Thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? You’re definitely not alone. Every day, people of all ages step onto the mats for their first class, looking for something that challenges them, helps them get in shape, and teaches real self-defense skills.
That first day can feel a little intimidating, especially if you’ve never done any kind of martial arts or grappling intro before.
You might be wondering if you’re in good enough shape, what you should wear, or what the people will be like. These are all normal thoughts. At Core Combat Sports in Machesney Park, IL, we’ve helped hundreds of people take that first step with confidence.
This article is designed to walk you through exactly what to expect in your BJJ for beginners class, so you can come in feeling informed, supported, and ready to train.
No Experience? That’s Normal
Most people who come to their first Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class have never done anything like it before. You don’t need to be flexible, strong, or athletic. You don’t need to know the terminology or have any background in martial arts. All of that will come with time.
The first thing we tell new students is simple: everyone starts as a beginner.
Our program includes a beginner-friendly structure that introduces the basics one step at a time. There’s no pressure to keep up with advanced students. You’ll be guided by a coach and paired with teammates who remember exactly what it felt like to be new.
You’ll learn, sweat, and grow with every class you take.
What to Wear to Your First Class
You don’t need to buy anything fancy before your first class. Just wear comfortable athletic clothes, like something you’d wear to the gym. Compression-style shirts or rash guards work well. Try to avoid anything too loose or clothing with zippers or pockets, since those can get caught during training.
We’ll provide a loaner gi, which is the traditional uniform for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, for your trial class. This gives you a chance to feel what it’s like to move and train in one before making any purchases.
If you decide to keep training, we’ll help you choose the right gi and gear. It doesn’t need to be flashy — just comfortable and appropriate for your level and goals.
The Class Format: What Happens on the Mat
Your first class follows a clear, consistent structure. Knowing what to expect helps ease nerves, so here’s how we run classes at our school.
Warm-Up and Movement
We start with light movement to get the body loose and ready. These exercises are also designed to introduce you to common Jiu Jitsu movements like bridging, shrimping (hip escapes), and rolls. You’ll learn how to move safely and efficiently — no high-intensity bootcamp drills, just functional movement that sets the tone for class.
As a beginner, you’ll never be expected to do anything you’re not ready for. Our coaches are patient, clear, and ready to help if something feels confusing.
Technique Instruction
After warm-up, the coach will demonstrate a technique or series of techniques for the day. These usually focus on key positions like guard, mount, side control, or basic submissions and escapes.
Everything is broken down step-by-step. You’ll watch, ask questions, and then get a chance to practice it with a partner. In your first class, your main focus will be understanding the basic idea of the movement — not perfection.
Our goal is to help you build comfort and confidence through repetition and clear coaching.
Partner Drilling
Once the technique is introduced, you’ll pair up with someone and take turns practicing the move under the coach’s guidance. Your partner may be another beginner or a more experienced student. Either way, you’ll be in a supportive environment where learning is the priority.
Drilling helps develop muscle memory, timing, and positioning. It also gives you a chance to ask more questions, feel the movement in real time, and build confidence through repetition.
Optional Sparring (Rolling)
At the end of class, we usually offer live training, often referred to as “rolling.” This is a controlled sparring session where students move at a pace that matches their experience level. You’ll work through positions, apply techniques in real time, and begin building awareness under pressure.
You are not required to spar in your first class. In fact, most beginners choose to watch at first. This gives you time to observe, ask questions, and get a feel for how techniques are used during live training.
When you feel ready, we’ll ease you into sparring with clear guidance and a strong focus on safety.
What You’ll Learn on Day One
Your first class will focus on the basics. You’ll be introduced to concepts like base, balance, posture, and movement. You’ll get familiar with the mat, your body, and how BJJ works.
You may also learn how to fall safely, how to escape from a bad position, or how to control your breathing during training. These are core skills that serve as your foundation for everything you’ll learn in future classes.
The main goal of your first class is to get comfortable. You’ll leave with a better understanding of what BJJ is, how it’s taught, and what it feels like to train — and most importantly, you’ll realize that it’s something you can do.
What If Everyone Else Is Better?
They probably are, and that’s actually a good thing.
Everyone on the mats was new at some point. Most students at our school remember exactly what it felt like to be unsure, awkward, or nervous. That’s why the environment here is welcoming and supportive, not competitive or intimidating.
Your job isn’t to keep up with anyone else. It’s to learn at your own pace and enjoy the process. The people around you are there to help you improve, not to show off.
Our coaches and higher belts go out of their way to make sure every new student feels comfortable and respected. That mindset is part of the culture we’ve built, and it’s something we take pride in.
What You’ll Feel After Class
After your first class, expect to feel a mix of things, both physically and mentally.
You’ll probably be a little tired, maybe a little sore, and definitely a bit overwhelmed—in the best way. You just learned a brand-new skill, moved your body in unfamiliar ways, and pushed yourself outside your comfort zone. That’s something to be proud of.
You’ll leave feeling accomplished. You’ll know you did something real. And if you’re like most people, you’ll be excited to come back.
Training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up, learning, and improving a little more each day.
Why Core Combat Sports Is the
Right Place to Start
We know that choosing a place to train is a big decision. At Core Combat Sports in Machesney Park, we’ve created an environment where beginners are treated with respect, patience, and encouragement.
We focus on safety, structure, and progress — not ego or intensity. We believe everyone deserves to learn at their own pace, with clear instruction and real support.
Our team of coaches is experienced, passionate, and dedicated to helping you succeed — whether your goal is fitness, self-defense, or just doing something new.
Ready to Try BJJ?
There’s no pressure to be great on day one. Just show up, be willing to learn, and we’ll take care of the rest.
Right now, you can get 2 Weeks of BJJ Classes + a FREE T-Shirt for $69 and find out if Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is the right fit for you.
Click https://coremma.com to get started or stop by our gym at 7135 Clinton Rd, Loves Park, IL to speak with a coach in person.