Posted on by Samran Maqsood

The 5 Most Important Things To Know Before You Begin Training

1.Why Do People Start BJJ?

1. To get out of jail

 This was my first thought, but I have been told this isn't true anymore. Nowadays, it's more likely that people start bjj to train their self-defense skills. However, we still hear stories about people starting bjj simply because they wanted to learn how to defend themselves physically.

 2. To stay fit

 People find martial arts training to be a great way to keep their bodies fit and healthy. Not only does it increase cardiovascular fitness, but also improves flexibility, balance, coordination, strength, and muscular endurance.

 3. To make friends

 It seems silly now, but at one time many people started grappling just to meet new friends. In recent years, social networking sites have taken away some of the need to meet new people in person, but back then it was different. If someone didn't know anyone who practiced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, getting into the sport could present a challenge. Today though, if you're interested in learning how to grapple, the internet makes it easier than ever before. You'll find tutorials, training camps, books, magazines, and even clubs near you.

 4. To stop bullying

 If you've ever seen bullies being picked on and tormented, chances are you've wondered what would happen if you stepped in and defended them. When you step in to help others, it gives you confidence in yourself and teaches you that you don't always have to stand by while people treat each other badly.

 

5. To protect yourself

 Not all martial arts focus on protecting yourself from an attack. Many offer classes that teach students how to use martial arts techniques to subdue attackers. Even though these types of schools may not have any real self-defense applications, they can teach you a lot about discipline, respect, control, and patience.

 

6. To feel powerful

 Many folks find that in order to gain confidence they have to fight. Fighting helps release adrenaline and endorphins. Those hormones send signals to our body telling us that we are strong and capable. Once you put on the gloves and hit pads, you realize that fighting isn't all bad.

 

7. To improve athletic performance

Some athletes believe that if they practice martial arts daily, they'll perform better athletically. Of course, there's no guarantee that you'll become a world class athlete, but practicing regularly will certainly help you improve your sports performance.

2. Who Should Train BJJ?

The answer to this question is simple. Anyone who wants to learn how to defend themselves efficiently should train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). In fact, if you want to gain proficiency in any self-defense discipline, then BJJ is the best choice among them all.
 First off, I want to point out that there are many different variations of BJJ. But, regardless of what style you choose to study, BJJ is still going to work! That's right. Whether you practice traditional BJJ, MMA-specific BJJ, sport-specific BJJ, or even no gi BJJ... the techniques taught in each variation are quite similar. So, let's get started.

 

3.Why Should You Learn BJJ?

 Brazilian jiujitsu is considered to be one of the safest martial arts in existence today. Why is this? Because BJJ teaches you how to properly use your body weight to defend yourself effectively. If someone tries to attack you, you'll know precisely where they're trying to hit you. And, you'll have the opportunity to deflect their attacks easily before they actually connect with your body.
 Furthermore, BJJ trains you to be able to move naturally. Learning to control your hips, knees, and ankles while moving at high speeds is difficult. However, with proper training, you'll develop the muscle memory to do just that. Another great benefit of learning BJJ is that it teaches you how to apply leverage correctly. You'll start noticing that people aren't always strong, but they are often strong in certain ways. Using this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to defeat a larger opponent.
 Finally, BJJ trains you how to communicate your intentions. When an attacker comes towards you, you won't hesitate to tell him exactly what you're planning to do next. By using proper hand signals, you'll be able to make sure he doesn't surprise you.
 So, the next time your friends challenge you to play some MMA games, say yes!

4.Is Jiu Jitsu Right For Me?

 1. Jiu-Jitsu does not require any special skill set that would make someone ineligible to get started. Anyone who knows how to tie their shoes is going to have no problem learning the basic moves and techniques involved in Brazilian jiu-jitsuing. If you are interested in beginning jiu-jitsu, then I highly recommend reading "The Complete Beginners Guide To Jiu-Jitsu". There are many different schools out there that offer classes ranging anywhere from $25-$100 per class depending upon location and instructor experience. You can always find a school close to home if you do some research and try before you buy.

 2. It's a great way to stay fit, lose weight, gain muscle mass and improve your self defense skills. There is no question that BJJ is one of the best ways to both physically and mentally train yourself. As a martial artist, you will learn many things including proper breathing techniques, physical conditioning, mental awareness, leverage points, chokes, escapes, etc. Most importantly, you'll learn how to defend yourself in a real world situation.
 3. You can work on your own style of BJJ, your own style of fighting, or even incorporate elements of other styles of martial arts like Muay Thai or Boxing (check out the Gracie Academy in Torrance CA).
 4. There are no long term commitments or contracts with BJJ programs; you can leave at anytime and never pay anything else than what you paid the first time you joined.
 5. Many people who start training with BJJ end up spending hundreds of dollars on gear and supplements just to keep themselves healthy. In comparison, BJJ is relatively cheap compared to other sports and activities.
 6. It's fun! You're going to laugh, sweat, bleed and sometimes cry while you're doing BJJ.
 7. Your friends won't understand. When they ask about your training regimen you can say that you're taking a break from football. Or, maybe you want to spend more time with your kids. Either way, you'll look cool and feel good.
 8. There are several types of BJJ. These include:
 a) No Gi: BJJ without a gi (uniform): This includes BJJ tournaments where competitors wear either a white/blue cotton tank top or t-shirt under a black singlet. This uniform is meant to resemble the traditional gi.
 b) Semi-Gi: A partial gi which doesn't reach past mid thigh. This is often used in MMA competitions.
 c) Gi: An official uniform consisting of a single piece of fabric worn over the head, chest and legs. This resembles a gi worn by Japanese fighters.
 d) White Belt: The lowest rank in BJJ. At this level, students may compete with only a white belt. Once they achieve yellow and orange belts, they are eligible to compete in higher levels of competition.
 9. When looking for a school, try to find one that offers beginner lessons and private instruction. Instructors should be friendly and teach you the basics in a welcoming environment. Ask them questions. Be sure to talk to current and former students who have been in similar situations.
 10. Don't be afraid to try something new. Just because the majority of people are doing something doesn't mean you can't do it too.

5. How Much Does A Full Time Coach Cost?

Coach costs vary based on many factors including what level of coaching you need, how long you want them for, and where you live. In general though, a lot of coaches charge between $100-$200 per hour. That said, if you’re looking to get some guidance and motivation from someone who knows their stuff, then you may not need to spend much at all! Depending on your own personal needs, skills, and goals, a simple 30 minute call can easily run anywhere from $30-$50, and a monthly fee can range from $150-$300.

The 5 Most Important Things To Know Before You Begin Training

1.Why Do People Start BJJ?

1. To get out of jail

 This was my first thought, but I have been told this isn't true anymore. Nowadays, it's more likely that people start bjj to train their self-defense skills. However, we still hear stories about people starting bjj simply because they wanted to learn how to defend themselves physically.

 2. To stay fit

 People find martial arts training to be a great way to keep their bodies fit and healthy. Not only does it increase cardiovascular fitness, but also improves flexibility, balance, coordination, strength, and muscular endurance.

 3. To make friends

 It seems silly now, but at one time many people started grappling just to meet new friends. In recent years, social networking sites have taken away some of the need to meet new people in person, but back then it was different. If someone didn't know anyone who practiced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, getting into the sport could present a challenge. Today though, if you're interested in learning how to grapple, the internet makes it easier than ever before. You'll find tutorials, training camps, books, magazines, and even clubs near you.

 4. To stop bullying

 If you've ever seen bullies being picked on and tormented, chances are you've wondered what would happen if you stepped in and defended them. When you step in to help others, it gives you confidence in yourself and teaches you that you don't always have to stand by while people treat each other badly.

 

5. To protect yourself

 Not all martial arts focus on protecting yourself from an attack. Many offer classes that teach students how to use martial arts techniques to subdue attackers. Even though these types of schools may not have any real self-defense applications, they can teach you a lot about discipline, respect, control, and patience.

 

6. To feel powerful

 Many folks find that in order to gain confidence they have to fight. Fighting helps release adrenaline and endorphins. Those hormones send signals to our body telling us that we are strong and capable. Once you put on the gloves and hit pads, you realize that fighting isn't all bad.

 

7. To improve athletic performance

Some athletes believe that if they practice martial arts daily, they'll perform better athletically. Of course, there's no guarantee that you'll become a world class athlete, but practicing regularly will certainly help you improve your sports performance.

2. Who Should Train BJJ?

The answer to this question is simple. Anyone who wants to learn how to defend themselves efficiently should train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). In fact, if you want to gain proficiency in any self-defense discipline, then BJJ is the best choice among them all.
 First off, I want to point out that there are many different variations of BJJ. But, regardless of what style you choose to study, BJJ is still going to work! That's right. Whether you practice traditional BJJ, MMA-specific BJJ, sport-specific BJJ, or even no gi BJJ... the techniques taught in each variation are quite similar. So, let's get started.

 

3.Why Should You Learn BJJ?

 Brazilian jiujitsu is considered to be one of the safest martial arts in existence today. Why is this? Because BJJ teaches you how to properly use your body weight to defend yourself effectively. If someone tries to attack you, you'll know precisely where they're trying to hit you. And, you'll have the opportunity to deflect their attacks easily before they actually connect with your body.
 Furthermore, BJJ trains you to be able to move naturally. Learning to control your hips, knees, and ankles while moving at high speeds is difficult. However, with proper training, you'll develop the muscle memory to do just that. Another great benefit of learning BJJ is that it teaches you how to apply leverage correctly. You'll start noticing that people aren't always strong, but they are often strong in certain ways. Using this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to defeat a larger opponent.
 Finally, BJJ trains you how to communicate your intentions. When an attacker comes towards you, you won't hesitate to tell him exactly what you're planning to do next. By using proper hand signals, you'll be able to make sure he doesn't surprise you.
 So, the next time your friends challenge you to play some MMA games, say yes!

4.Is Jiu Jitsu Right For Me?

 1. Jiu-Jitsu does not require any special skill set that would make someone ineligible to get started. Anyone who knows how to tie their shoes is going to have no problem learning the basic moves and techniques involved in Brazilian jiu-jitsuing. If you are interested in beginning jiu-jitsu, then I highly recommend reading "The Complete Beginners Guide To Jiu-Jitsu". There are many different schools out there that offer classes ranging anywhere from $25-$100 per class depending upon location and instructor experience. You can always find a school close to home if you do some research and try before you buy.

 2. It's a great way to stay fit, lose weight, gain muscle mass and improve your self defense skills. There is no question that BJJ is one of the best ways to both physically and mentally train yourself. As a martial artist, you will learn many things including proper breathing techniques, physical conditioning, mental awareness, leverage points, chokes, escapes, etc. Most importantly, you'll learn how to defend yourself in a real world situation.
 3. You can work on your own style of BJJ, your own style of fighting, or even incorporate elements of other styles of martial arts like Muay Thai or Boxing (check out the Gracie Academy in Torrance CA).
 4. There are no long term commitments or contracts with BJJ programs; you can leave at anytime and never pay anything else than what you paid the first time you joined.
 5. Many people who start training with BJJ end up spending hundreds of dollars on gear and supplements just to keep themselves healthy. In comparison, BJJ is relatively cheap compared to other sports and activities.
 6. It's fun! You're going to laugh, sweat, bleed and sometimes cry while you're doing BJJ.
 7. Your friends won't understand. When they ask about your training regimen you can say that you're taking a break from football. Or, maybe you want to spend more time with your kids. Either way, you'll look cool and feel good.
 8. There are several types of BJJ. These include:
 a) No Gi: BJJ without a gi (uniform): This includes BJJ tournaments where competitors wear either a white/blue cotton tank top or t-shirt under a black singlet. This uniform is meant to resemble the traditional gi.
 b) Semi-Gi: A partial gi which doesn't reach past mid thigh. This is often used in MMA competitions.
 c) Gi: An official uniform consisting of a single piece of fabric worn over the head, chest and legs. This resembles a gi worn by Japanese fighters.
 d) White Belt: The lowest rank in BJJ. At this level, students may compete with only a white belt. Once they achieve yellow and orange belts, they are eligible to compete in higher levels of competition.
 9. When looking for a school, try to find one that offers beginner lessons and private instruction. Instructors should be friendly and teach you the basics in a welcoming environment. Ask them questions. Be sure to talk to current and former students who have been in similar situations.
 10. Don't be afraid to try something new. Just because the majority of people are doing something doesn't mean you can't do it too.

5. How Much Does A Full Time Coach Cost?

Coach costs vary based on many factors including what level of coaching you need, how long you want them for, and where you live. In general though, a lot of coaches charge between $100-$200 per hour. That said, if you’re looking to get some guidance and motivation from someone who knows their stuff, then you may not need to spend much at all! Depending on your own personal needs, skills, and goals, a simple 30 minute call can easily run anywhere from $30-$50, and a monthly fee can range from $150-$300.