So you want to learn Jiu-Jitsu!

There are many points to keep in mind. Firstly, skill must be attained on the mat. It’s OK to do your research by reading and watching video etc but at the end of the day you have to get on the mat.

To learn Jiu-Jitsu, You need to work with partners under the guidance on an expert Instructor, or Sensei. The word Sensei means teacher, or literally “one who has gone before”. A Sensei was once in your position and has learned the lessons you seek. The Sensei will demonstrate proper technique and be the model for you to learn from and monitor your own performance.

You also need to learn from your fellow students so be sure to train with a wide range of people. The techniques you learn in Jiu-Jitsu will very slightly depending on the person you train with. A slight variation may be required depending on the person’s stance, height, weight, strength and ability. With this information, you will learn to adapt as necessary, whether you are performing Take-Downs, Submissions, General Grappling or even striking techniques.

Practicing with new people will expose you to new ideas and encourage you to expand your skills.

The more time you spend to learn Jiu-Jitsu, the more you will begin to understand and appreciate the importance of good technique. In the early days focus on the technique without relying on strength. If you can gain the Maximum Effect from the Minimum of Effort, the resulting technique will be far more effective.

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I would recommend that if you are looking at starting Jiu-jitsu, then do it through specialized instruction and practice, this cannot be achieved on your own.

To become proficient in Jiu-jitsu, you must first find an instructor and students to practice with. There are many experienced teachers (Sensei) around so you should not have too much trouble in locating one. Your choice of school will vary depending on your age, interest and condition.

Besides a Dojo ( training hall), you also require proper mats and a Gi (uniform). Your new Sensei can usually organize a Gi for you. The traditional Gi is white and made of very strong fabric, yet is still loose and comfortable.

Attend your new Dojo with a positive attitude, with a healthy appetite for learning, ready to try your best.

You will begin by learning a few safety rules and etiquette of Jiu-jitsu. The bow is to show respect and appreciation to your Sensei and fellow students who all help you to learn.

During your first sessions, you will learn how to breakfall, this is how to fall safely on the mat on any direction. The ability to fall safely, with confidence is an important skill to master. This will allow you to attempt more difficult techniques. To enjoy Jiu-jitsu, you really need to learn how to breakfall effectively. It is difficult to enjoy if you are afraid of falling or if you get hurt in the breakfall. It does take a good deal of practice to overcome this first obstacle.

Jiu-jitsu practice alone will help to improve your level of fitness and good conditioning will certainly help you to excel.

Most athletes who want to attain a good standard in any sport, supplement their training with resistance training, Cardio training, flexibilty training and other forms of exercise. Jiu-jitsu is no exception.

Safety is an important consideration in training if you are to take advantage of the long term benefits of jiu-jitsu. Jiu-jitsu is a very effective combat system, some techniques can cause severe injury if not practiced carefully and properly so always treat training partners with care.

Do not be in too much of a rush to move on. Enjoy each and every technique as it is presented to you, whether you are starting Jiu-Jitsu or have been practicing many years.