Surviving Your First Month in BJJ: A Beginner's Guide

If you're reading this, you've probably just signed up for your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class, or you're thinking about it. First of all, congratulations! You're about to embark on one of the most rewarding journeys in the martial arts. But let's be honest: the first month can be exhausting and super depressing.

Essential hygiene and etiquette

Before discussing techniques, let's talk about the most important aspect of being a good training partner: hygiene and etiquette. These rules are designed to ensure everyone's health and safety:

• Always shower before class and arrive with freshly trimmed nails.
• Never wear shoes on the mats, but always wear them when going to the toilet!
• Invest in rashguards and spats (tight-fitting clothing) to avoid burns and infections on the mat.
• In the event of a cut or scrape, use a Vaseline-coated liquid bandage (ordinary bandages fall off).
• Begin each roll (sparring session) by greeting your opponent.
• Inform your sparring partners of any injuries before you start sparring.
• Don't train if you're ill - we're in a confined space and it's easy to create an epidemic.

The reality of beginnings

Here's what no one tells you before your first class:

You'll feel completely lost - that's normal. Your body will be sore in places you never knew existed. You'll be confronted with new types of pressure and movement your body isn't used to - shrimping? walking like an alligator? 😅 Everything will seem foreign at first, even basic positions. You may feel like you're “dying” during the workout - everyone goes through this - especially DON'T QUIT!

The single movement strategy

Here's my top tip for surviving and evolving in your first few months: Pick one move and make it your best friend. This strategy works for the following reasons

Clear objective: instead of trying to learn twenty different techniques, you have a clear objective. Boosting self-confidence: Once you start regularly executing the move you've chosen, you'll feel real progress. Learning natural defense: To achieve your shot, you'll learn to survive other positions. Deep understanding: You'll learn all the nuances of at least one position.

For example, in my case I chose the closed guard... I've got very long legs, so this is my safety zone, and from here I've started to develop my game, through basic reversals and submissions like the triangle or the arm lock.

How to apply the single-movement strategy

Suppose you choose the reversal of the guard as your basic movement:

Master the position first: Get comfortable by simply holding the position. Study the details: Pay attention to all the little details your instructor shows you. Focus on how to get there: Practice the transitions that lead to your position. Learn defense: Understand how to maintain your position when someone tries to pass. Practice relentlessly: Use every sparring match as an opportunity to work on your movement.

Care of your equipment

Soak your equipment in a diluted antibacterial solution before washing. For smelly rashguards, soak them in diluted bleach (as a last resort). Clean cuts with chlorhexidine before applying an antiseptic. Wash your gi and belt regularly

Common mistakes to avoid for beginners

Trying to learn too many techniques at once Using strength rather than technique Training despite injury Neglecting defensive aspects Not asking questions in case of confusion Forgetting to breathe during rolls

Moving forward

Remember that your first month of BJJ isn't about becoming a world champion - it's about... :

Establishing good habits (hygiene, safety) Understanding basic positions and concepts Developing reliable technique Taking care of your body Be a good training partner Appreciate the learning process

You're at the beginning of what many call the “hero's journey”. Like any hero, you'll face challenges, meet mentors (your instructors and training partners) and overcome obstacles. Every small victory, whether it's holding a position a few seconds longer or finally succeeding with your chosen technique, is a step forward on this path. Continue to be consistent, stay focused on your strategy and trust the process. Before you know it, you'll be the one helping the new white belts find their way. The journey to blue belt and beyond begins with these first steps.