Never Done Martial Arts?

May 21

What to Expect at Your First No Gi Jiu Jitsu Class

Most people who walk through our doors at Leverage Jiu Jitsu Colorado have never trained a day in their life.

No martial arts background. No wrestling in high school. No clue what they’re getting themselves into.

Just curiosity… and maybe a little nervousness.

If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. And honestly, you don’t need to know much before you start. But I know walking into a new gym can feel intimidating, so here’s what you can expect.

You Don't Need to "Get in Shape First"

This is probably the biggest thing that holds people back.

They think they need to get stronger, lose weight, be more flexible, or “build their cardio” before trying jiu jitsu.

You don’t.

Jiu jitsu is how you start getting in shape. Your first few classes will probably feel awkward and humbling no matter how fit you are, and that’s true for everyone.

So don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Just show up as you are. The rest comes with time.

What Is No Gi Jiu Jitsu?

At Leverage Jiu Jitsu Colorado, we train exclusively no gi. That means you do not need a traditional uniform, also called a gi or kimono.

You can wear athletic shorts and a rash guard or fitted t-shirt. Basically, something comfortable that does not have zippers, pockets, or anything that could scratch someone or get caught during training.

No gi jiu jitsu is all about learning how to control another person using body mechanics, leverage, and technique instead of just strength.

That’s the fun part.

You don’t have to be the biggest or strongest person in the room to get good at this. A smaller person can absolutely learn how to deal with someone bigger. It just takes time, patience, and good coaching.

What Happens in Your First Class

You’ll start with a warm-up. You’ll probably do movements your body is not used to yet, like hip escapes, forward rolls, or other jiu jitsu-specific movements. It might feel awkward at first. That’s normal. Everyone looks awkward in the beginning.

Then we move into technique. Your coaches will show a specific technique and break it down step by step. You’ll practice it with a partner, and the goal is not to be perfect. The goal is to start understanding how the movement works.

Toward the end of class, there will be live practice, also called rolling. This is where students practice with resistance in a controlled way. If you’re brand new, we’re not just going to throw you into chaos and hope for the best. Your coach will help guide you and make sure you’re paired with the right people.

And yes, you will tap out. A lot.

Tapping is how you tell your partner to stop when they have you in a submission or when you feel stuck and need to reset. There is zero shame in tapping. It’s part of training, it keeps everyone safe, and it’s one of the main ways you learn.

Will I Be the Only Beginner?

Probably not.

We have new students starting all the time, and everyone in the room remembers what it felt like to be brand new.

Our goal is not to throw you to the wolves. More experienced students are expected to be good training partners, especially with beginners. That means being controlled, patient, and helpful instead of just trying to “win” every round.

You are allowed to be new. You are allowed to not know what you’re doing yet. That’s literally why you’re coming to class.

One Thing to Do Before You Come In

Before your first class, we recommend reading our gym etiquette.

It covers simple things like hygiene, what to wear, how tapping works, and basic mat safety. Nothing scary. Just the practical stuff that will help you feel a little more prepared before walking in.

Read the gym etiquette guide →