What Is a Jiu-Jitsu Class?
When stepping into your first jiu jitsu class, you’re entering a world of discipline, skill development, and personal growth. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art focused on ground fighting, leverage, and submissions, making it accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
At Gracie Barra North Salt Lake, our structured jiu jitsu classes cater to beginners, providing a welcoming environment to learn and grow. For those new to the sport, having the right gear is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Why Do You Need Specific Gear for Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu involves close physical contact, grips, and intense movement. Proper gear not only enhances your comfort but also ensures your safety and the safety of your training partners. The right equipment supports your performance, prevents injuries, and prolongs the lifespan of your training gear.
At Gracie Barra North Salt Lake, we ensure new students have access to a clean, free gi (uniform) during their trial class, so you can experience authentic training from day one without worrying about gear.
What Gear Do You Need for a Jiu-Jitsu Class?
Here is the ultimate checklist for what you’ll need:
1. Gi (Kimono)
- Purpose: The gi is the traditional uniform used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
- Material: Typically made from durable cotton or a cotton-polyester blend.
- Fit: Should fit snugly but allow full range of motion.
At Gracie Barra North Salt Lake, your first jiu jitsu class includes a free gi usage, giving you the opportunity to train comfortably and have a full experience.
2. Belt
- Purpose: Represents your rank and is essential for securing your gi.
- Note: New students usually start with a white belt.
3. Rash Guard
- Purpose: Worn under the gi to minimize skin irritation and improve hygiene.
- Material: Moisture-wicking, stretchy fabric.
It is optional to wear a rash guard under your kimono, but it is mandatory to wear one for No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes.
5. No-Gi Shorts
- Purpose: If you decide to try no-gi classes later, these are essential.
- Fit: Tight-fitting to avoid fabric being grabbed.
It is mandatory to wear both shorts and a rash guard for No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes.
6. Flip-Flops or Sandals
- Purpose: Worn when moving off the mats to keep the training area clean.
7. Water Bottle
- Purpose: Staying hydrated is crucial during any jiu jitsu class.
The Importance of Personal Hygiene in Jiu-Jitsu
Maintaining personal hygiene is a core value in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Since training involves constant close contact, coming to class clean, using deodorant, keeping your nails trimmed, and bringing a towel to manage sweat are simple yet crucial habits.
These actions show respect for yourself, your training partners, and help maintain a safe, hygienic environment for everyone on the mats at Gracie Barra North Salt Lake.
Jewelry x Jiu-Jitsu
Another point of attention concerns accessories such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings. It is important to remove them for all classes to avoid getting caught or hurting anyone.
Where Can You Get Your Gear?
If you’re looking for quality gear to continue your journey after your trial class, Gracie Barra North Salt Lake sells high-quality gis and accessories suited for both beginners and advanced practitioners. As with many martial arts and other activity-based schools, Gracie Barra requires the compulsory use of its own uniform to maintain a sense of unity and discipline among students.
Check with our front desk to learn more about getting the correct size.
When Should You Prepare Your Gear?
Since Gracie Barra North Salt Lake provides a free gi for trial class, you don’t need to worry.
For subsequent classes, investing in your own properly fitted gi and gear ensures the best training experience. Our front desk will give you all the information.
Who Can Help You Choose the Right Gear?
Our team at Gracie Barra North Salt Lake are experienced and always happy to guide you.
Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations, having the right gear can make a big difference in your comfort and confidence.
How Much Does Jiu-Jitsu Gear Cost?
The cost of a full jiu-jitsu gear set can vary depending on the type and quality of uniform you choose. Different materials, and features may influence the price. Our team at Gracie Barra North Salt Lake will walk you through all available options and help you select the best gear to match your needs and budget, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident on the mats.
How to Maintain Your Gear
Proper maintenance keeps your gear in top condition:
- Wash gi and rash guards after every class.
- Hang gear to dry completely to avoid mildew.
- Trim nails before training.
Taking good care of your kimono not only ensures hygiene and respect but also significantly increases its durability, allowing it to last and support you through many years of training.
Additional Tips for Your First Jiu-Jitsu Class
- Arrive early to familiarize yourself with the Jiu-Jitsu school and meet your instructor.
- Wear comfortable, form-fitting clothes so you won’t have any problems wearing the gi.
- Listen and observe carefully during instructions.
- Stay calm and have fun. Everyone was a beginner once!
FAQs About Jiu-Jitsu Classes and Gear
What should I wear to my first jiu jitsu class? Can I just wear gym clothes to a Jiu-Jitsu class?
For your free trial, wear athletic clothes and bring flip-flops to keep the mats clean. Gracie Barra North Salt Lake will provide a free gi, so you can have a full experience.
Do I need to buy a gi before my trial class?
No! We offer a free gi for your first trial class so you can experience Jiu-Jitsu fully.
Is Jiu-Jitsu expensive to start?
Jiu-Jitsu is not an expensive martial art. Once you commit with Jiu-Jitsu classes you’ll have to choose among membership offers available. Check our Membership page.
What size gi should I get after the trial?
Your instructor will help you choose the correct size. It’s important that the gi fits well, not too loose and not too tight.
How often should I wash my gi?
After every session. Keeping your gear clean is essential for your health and your partner’s.
Do women need different gear for Jiu-Jitsu?
Not necessarily. The gear is generally unisex, but we have different colors of kimono like pink which are often the girls’ choice.
Are you ready to start your journey with us?
Gracie Barra North Salt Lake offers the perfect environment to learn, grow, and challenge yourself. And the best part? Your first jiu jitsu class comes with a free gi, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Book your free trial class today and step onto the mats with confidence!
