BJJ for Beginners: What Memphis-Area Newcomers Should Know

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the Memphis area as a complete beginner is intimidating — and that's normal. Here's a straight-talk guide from our Olive Branch school for adults across the Memphis metro who are thinking about their first class in our BJJ for Adults & Beginners program.

What to wear to your first BJJ class

Comfortable workout clothes are perfect — athletic shorts or leggings without zippers or pockets, and a t-shirt. Bring a water bottle and arrive 15 minutes early so we can get you signed in. If you'd rather skip the gi entirely, our No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes train in shorts and a rash guard.

What actually happens in a beginner BJJ class

Adult classes at our Memphis-area gym run 1 hour and 20 minutes. The first hour is warm-up, technique demonstration, and partner drilling — slow and clean. The last 20 minutes is what we call live training, also known as rolling. Live training is completely optional. You will not be thrown into it on day one. Most folks find it's the most fun part of the night once they're ready.

You're going to be sore

Your forearms, neck, and hips are going to wake up muscles you didn't know existed. Expect three to four weeks of being humbled. Show up anyway — week five is when it clicks. If burning calories is a priority for you too, the same training doubles as our BJJ for Fitness & Weight Loss approach.

How often should I train?

Two to three classes a week is the sweet spot for adult beginners around Memphis. See the full weekly class schedule — it's built for working professionals across the Memphis metro and North Mississippi.

Come train with us

If you're in the Memphis area — Germantown, Collierville, Cordova, Bartlett, Olive Branch, or Southaven — and you've been thinking about trying BJJ, your first class is a free trial. Women who'd prefer to start in a women-focused environment can also check out BJJ for Women.