Checkmat

FAQs

Plymouth

Bjjplymouth - NoGi Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. It is based on the principle that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent by using technique, leverage, and body mechanics.

For your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class, you don't need to invest in specialized gear right away. Here's what to can wear:

  • T-shirt or Rash Guard with Shorts or leggings (try to avoid buttons, pockets and zips).
  • Ensure your nails are short and clean to avoid scratching yourself or others and remove any jewellery, watches, or piercings to prevent injury

No, you don't need any prior martial arts experience to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). BJJ is beginner-friendly and designed to teach you techniques from the ground up, regardless of your fitness level, age, or background.

  • Your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class will likely be a mix of learning basic techniques, understanding how the class works, and getting a feel for the sport.
  • Arrive 5-10 minutes early to introduce yourself, complete any paperwork, and get oriented. Meet the Instructor and teammates. The coach or fellow students will help you feel welcome and explain what to expect.
  • General Class Structure: Warm-Up, Technique/Drilling, Rolling/Sparring (This part is optional for beginners).

As a beginner in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), training 2-3 times per week is ideal. This frequency allows you to progress steadily while giving your body time to recover and adapt to the physical demands of the sport.

Why 2–3 Times Per Week?

  • Learning and Retention: Attending regularly but not excessively helps you absorb techniques and reinforce them through repetition.
  • Avoiding Burnout: Starting too aggressively can lead to physical and mental fatigue or even injury.
  • Building Strength and Endurance: Your body needs time to adapt to the specific movements and intensity of BJJ.
  • Developing Consistency: Building a habit of consistent training is more important than overloading at the start.

Gradually increase frequency as your body and skill level improve, you can consider training more often (e.g., 4–5 times per week). Always listen to your body and prioritize rest if you feel overly sore or fatigued.

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) belt system is a ranking system that reflects a practitioner’s skill level, experience, and dedication. Each belt requires progressively greater technical knowledge, time, and ability, and promotions are based on performance, consistency, and attitude.

Belt Ranks for Adults:

  • White Belt
  • Blue Belt
  • Purple Belt
  • Brown Belt
  • Black Belt

Children's Belts:

  • White
  • Grey with white strip
  • Grey
  • Yellow with white strip
  • Yellow
  • Orange with white strip
  • Orange
  • Green with white strip
  • Green

Yes, this allows you to experience the environment, meet the instructor and teammates, and see if the gym is a good fit for you before committing to a membership. .

To start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), you don’t need a lot of specialized equipment, but having the right gear will make your training more comfortable and effective. Here’s a breakdown of the essential and optional items:

Essential Equipment:

  • Gi (for Gi Training)
  • Correct Ranked Belt (For Gi Training)
  • Rash Guard (for No-Gi Training or Under the Gi)
  • Shorts/Spats without zippers, buttons, or pockets (For NoGi Training)

Optional Equipment:

  • Mouthguard: Protects your teeth and gums during training or sparring.
  • Drinks bottle: It’s always good to stay hydrated.