What You Need to Know About Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Before Starting
Discover how awesome Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is!
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), often referred to as “The Gentle Art” is a skillful, defensive Martial Art that requires great discipline. If you’re interested in learning BJJ as a self-defense technique, here are a few things to know before getting started.
Proactivity
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is just as much a mental sport as it is a physical one. It’s important to enter a BJJ Academy with the right mindset. No, you won’t be great right away and yes, it’s difficult, but it will only get easier after that first day. If you can accept these basic truths, you’ll be much more prepared for the reality of learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu moves. A strong mindset is the greatest tool you can have.
Before starting BJJ, do some extra research. There are several variations of jiu-jitsu, and all academies do things differently. At Gustavo Machado, we provide our students with the highest level of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu education in a positive, uplifting environment.
Prioritizing
Foundational techniques will teach you how to anticipate an opponent’s attack and respond accordingly; but these techniques won’t develop overnight. You’ll have more growth and success if you dedicate the necessary time and effort towards practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu moves.
If you’re serious about BJJ and getting the most from this martial art, it’s recommended to apply yourself outside of class, whether it’s private lessons or strength exercises, anything will help as long as you’re dedicated. Do more than is asked of you — you’ll get what you give to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Train with an End Goal in Mind
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than fighting — it’s a journey. The martial art takes dedication and countless hours of practice before seeing tangible progress. That being said, you’ll gain more and more skills every time you step on the mat.
On average, it takes a student 8-13 years to become a black belt. Even after mastering the fundamentals, there is ongoing growth. You’ll be a fine candidate for our introductory Fundamentals class if you enter our academy knowing what results you want from BJJ, and have set goals to help you achieve those results throughout your journey.
Seek First to Learn the Art. Then Share the Art
At Gustavo Machado Academy, we practice a traditional form of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that’s been passed down for many generations. As with many martial arts, you’ll be a better student if you seek to learn as much as possible, then share it with those around you. BJJ has an extensive history and a rich purpose. Once you become more familiar with both the culture and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu moves, it will become easier to get friends and family members interested in The Gentle Art.
Discover How Awesome Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Is
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can truly enrich the life of anyone who practices the art. It will teach you many more life skills than only self-defense. Contact us today to learn more about Gustavo Machado Academy, or take a look at our classes to get started today!