The Ultimate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Beginners Guide from Gracie Barra Tyler
Discover Our Beginner Tips for Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Tyler, Texas
Gracie Barra provides Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes in Tyler, Texas for students of all skill levels. Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are a fun and intense martial art that provides numerous mental and physical benefits. Before you step on the mat, you might have some questions about the martial art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This guide will answer your questions and provide you with everything you need to know before starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Tyler, Tx!
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Let’s start with the basics! Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a self-defense martial art based on grappling (various techniques to gain physical control over your opponent) and submission techniques. The main goal of this martial art is to control your opponent and get them to submit. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has a long history that goes back to Brazil in the 1920s and further back to Japan.
Get Ready for Peak Fitness in Tyler Texas from Gracie Barra
Before your first martial arts class in Tyler, you might wonder what fitness level is necessary for our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes. The answer is any fitness level! Our BJJ training classes are for people of all fitness levels who love improving their physical and mental well-being. With regular practice, you will build endurance through practicing moves in our Jiu-Jitsu classes. Each class provides you with a physically demanding workout that burns many calories that will leave you physically tired but mentally exhilarated.
Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Etiquette
Before training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Tyler, Texas it’s important to keep in mind some of the following etiquettes at our Tyler gym.
Ego – Be prepared to lose to your opponent when training Jiu-Jitsu. It’s important to be just as mindful of your ego as your jiu-jitsu techniques. When you get dominated or submitted in around, don’t lose your pride or let your loss get the better of you.
No Shoes on the Mat – At Gracie Barra Tyler, we have our students take off shoes before walking on the mats for hygiene and etiquette purposes.
Wear Clean GI (clothing) – Ensure your GI (even including belts or non-GI clothing) is freshly washed for each Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training session. This is out of respect for you and your teammates.
Positions to Expect at Your First Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Class from Gracie Barra Tyler
Before starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu it can be confusing to remember the many different positions practiced in class. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Most higher belts enjoy demonstrating techniques and explaining why you would use certain techniques over others. The following positions are the most common positions to familiarize yourself with before class:
Bridge – This move is usually done to “buck off” an opponent who is in the mount position. When you are laying on your back, move your feet as close to your body as possible and lift your torso so that only your shoulders and toes are left touching the mat.
Guard – The Guard position can be referred to when you attack or defend. When you “play guard” you are attempting to control your opponent using your ankles, knees, or hips so they can’t advance.
Mount – When you mount an opponent you are sitting on their torso with your knees on the ground facing your opponent’s head.
Roll – This move refers to any act of sparring or grappling with another Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu student. The name comes from the rolling motion created by BJJ students as they roll on the mat.
Turtle – When you tuck in your arms, legs, and head, you are in a defensive position known as the turtle.
The Most Important Part of Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Beginners Guide? Have Fun!
Brazilian Jiu-Jitu is a martial art for you to love. Don’t ever take training so seriously that you stop enjoying yourself. It’s important to know that failure is part of the experience at Gracie Barra. Accept failures, start making friends at our Tyler gym, and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself. It’s also important to note that winning isn’t everything. A successful sweep or takedown can be enjoyable too!
Start Working on Your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Moves and Contact Gracie Barra Tyler Today!
At Gracie Barra Tyler, our main goal is to help students live for Jiu-Jitsu. Whether that’s learning how to eat for Jiu-Jitsu or executing successful takedowns, the Gracie Barra Brotherhood is here to support you. We welcome students of all fitness levels to experience the gentle art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Get started today!