If you’ve ever wondered what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is like for a total beginner, don't be intimidated. Here’s what to expect from your first class.
The most empowering thing I did this year involved getting crushed on a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) mat… but it also gave me a serious confidence boost. After a beginner BJJ session at the recently opened Tap Jiu Jitsu in Singapore, I came away with a refreshed admiration for the martial art. It’s unlike anything I’ve encountered, with submissions and takedowns that require shrewd strategy and technique. Size isn’t the key to victory, which intrigued me most. Well, that and daydreaming about grappling my way to peak fitness.
For context, I’ve been stuck in a cruel cycle, never quite feeling 100% over the last year. My body relentlessly rebelled against me, regularly surrendering to any viral illness floating around. Determined to make a change, I ditched the couch time for my trusty walking pad – a game-changer for any sedentary lifestyle.
Feeling lighter, brighter, and stronger, I took the next step on my fitness journey to explore martial arts. Kickboxing has always worked wonders to punch my stress away, and I’ve got self-defence moves buried deep in my mind from a seminar years ago, so the idea of a fast and furious sweat sesh enticed me.
A newcomer to the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Wading into unknown waters typically floods me with a mix of anticipation and nerves, and BJJ was no different. Any beginner would feel intimidated – even with a friend tagging along – but the vibe at Tap was laid-back and friendly. With welcoming smiles from the instructors, I instantly felt at ease.
A no-frills spot in the long-standing Parklane Shopping Mall, it’s kitted out with the bare necessities. A black floor mat takes up most of the space with mirror-lined walls, alongside a small shower and changing corner, simple shelves for your belongings, branded merch, and a fridge cheekily stocked with Asahi beer (and 100Plus).
Towards the back, there’s a row of gis, the sport’s traditional uniform consisting of a jacket, pants, and belt. They’re heavier and bulkier than they look, but I’d recommend you rent one to feel like a bona fide martial artist in the making – and to avoid touching someone else’s sweaty limbs (perfect for germaphobes like me).
Surrounded by fellow barefoot beginners in the fundamentals class, which welcomes people of all ages, I was relieved to find others starting from scratch. This session eases you into the sport with basic body movements, techniques that can be applied to self-defence, positional training for muscle memory, and injury prevention through breaking falls. Right away, there’s a strong emphasis on safety, support, and easy-to-understand instruction.
Started from the bottom, now we’re here
Ben, my 30-something coach for the day, confidently and cheerfully kicks off the cosy class with a quick background on the sport.
“Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is like chess: to win, you need to let your partner make moves and force them to a situation where they only have losing moves,” he tells us while we start with simple stretches to warm up. Sounds complex, but I’m up for the challenge.
Next, we tackle the basics: breaking a fall backwards and on the side. Unexpectedly, I’m not hopeless at this unnatural move, even though my body fights me at every step. Ben explains that falling the correct way is essential to avoid injury, which is all the fuel I need to double up my efforts.
When everyone is up to standard, we progress to foundational building blocks. With his warm and outgoing demeanour, Ben walks us through various moves and the thought process behind them.
He’s clear and passionate in his demonstration, but my short attention span causes me to forget everything by the time we practice. No stress; the small class size means ample time for one-on-one training. He guides me patiently until I’m comfortable and can execute the moves like they’re second nature.
We’re barely halfway through the class, and my heart is already racing with the constant movement. As I wipe the sweat off my brow, I realise I’ve underestimated how technical the sport is. The pros truly make it look effortless!
Let’s crank things up a notch
Did I mention weight doesn’t matter? Technique is the most important for BJJ practitioners, according to Ben. He proves it to us by deftly tackling a burly classmate with the swift agility and nimble flexibility of a graceful gazelle.
“BJJ may seem complicated, but it’s four simple steps. 1) Take the fight to the ground and get on top; 2) pass your opponent’s legs; 3) establish a pin; and 4) look for an extended limb or exposed neck for a submission,” he explains while locked in a complicated-looking grapple.
Pumped to give it a shot, I paired up with an opponent who looked more muscular than I would’ve liked. It took a few rounds of sparring, lots of clumsy falls, confused side-eyes and arm-twisting, but miraculously, I executed a somewhat successful takedown. The exhilaration of overpowering someone bigger and stronger than you is unmatched. You’d never dream of going up against them in real life, which makes this all the more empowering and adrenaline-inducing.
But, I’ll admit it’s humbling when you take longer than you imagined to complete those leg locks and arm drags. Or when you get crushed in another exercise by a tiny opponent. I didn’t expect it to be so mentally demanding, like solving puzzles while sweating buckets. However, there’s no awkwardness or judgy stares. Everyone’s open to learning and growing together, which bolstered my confidence.
Time flies when you’re having a good time, and we ended with a fast-paced, knee-tapping game that saw us darting around our opponents. Chuckles echoed all around as everyone let loose their playful competitiveness. Classmates truly make the vibe, so I’d suggest coming with friends for a fun, fuss-free session.
Before we hung our gis up for the day, we witnessed two of the more experienced BJJ fighters live in action. With intense takedowns and ground fighting, it was 100% more thrilling than I’d pictured. As for me, I was already mentally visualising myself executing submission holds on my gym buff husband when I got home. Hey, a girl can dream.
Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu worth picking up as a beginner?
Walking away from the mat, my worries of the day evaporated. The mental exertion of strategising two steps ahead left me little room to think about anything else. I’m not about to become the next great fighter, but I’ll settle for the satisfaction of gaining new skills and a confident leg up in my ability to defend myself.
If you’re curious about martial arts or interested in trying something new, Tap Jiu-Jitsu’s free one-week trial is a win-win. There are Gi and No Gi classes, Judo, Kyokushin karate and even kids’ training sessions. With years of experience between them, the coaches have racked up multiple medals in local and international tournaments.
After my first foray into the sport, I’ve discovered it’s more than a physical workout. Yes, it sharpens strength and endurance, but it also releases stress and builds mental discipline. What surprised me most? Hands down, the camaraderie. The inclusive, supportive community made my class feel like a team effort instead of an individual uphill climb.
In BJJ, you’re not just learning how to fight – you’re moving, thinking, and growing differently. It’s revitalising and energising. And that kind of dynamic challenge is what can keep the spark alive on a long-term fitness journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I expect at a beginner Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class?
First-timers are welcome, regardless of age or fitness level, as classes are programmed with safety in mind. Expect to learn basic body movements to improve flexibility, injury prevention through breaking falls, simple submissions and escapes, and technical foundations.
What should I bring?
Bring a water bottle and a towel. Wear comfortable activewear you can move freely in, or rent a gi at the gym. No sports shoes are needed as you’ll be barefoot on the mat. P.S. remove any accessories before you get started, because you’ll be in close contact with your opponents.
