What can I expect from my first BJJ class?

Obviously every class will vary slightly depending on the focus of that particular class but generally it will follow a similar format:

• Warm-up including jogging, stretching, etc..
• Conditioning – body weight excercises like press-ups, sits-ups etc
• specific techniques practiced with a partner
• drills
• live sparring

Over a two hour class this might be split down into:

• 30-45 minutes – warm up, conditioning
• 45 minutes – techniques and drills
• 30-45 minutes – live sparring

You are more than welcome to come to a class to watch and see what it is all about before starting.

What do I need to bring/wear to a class?

If the class is a gi class (training in a uniform very similar to a judo outfit) then a judo gi will do. If you do not have one then t-shirts/shorts/tracksuit bottoms will do. If it is a no-gi grappling class then just shorts and t-shirt will do. Make sure these are clothes you do not mind getting ripped or stretched! Do not wear anything with zips, buttons or pockets as these can be dangerous. Be aware that if you wear any kind of jewellery that you will need to take it off before training for safety. At some point when you realise BJJ is for you and you want to take it up more seriously then you will want to buy a BJJ gi. Talk to the guys in the class about makes, designs and prices before you purchase anything or alternatively you can get one from Ricardo!

As with all exercise it is a good idea to bring a bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated. Make sure you do not eat anything too heavy two hours before the start of training. We do not currently have shower facilities so be prepared to go home a little sweaty.

How fit do I need to be to start training? Do I need any prior martial arts experience?

The basic answer is that you need no prior experience to start and you do not need to have to be at a certain fitness level either. It is important to know yourself and only do what you are capable of. Initially it maybe that your fitness level means you will not be able to complete all the exercises or do all the sparring. Over time and through regular attendance you will get naturally fitter, stronger and faster. Remember even the most experience people in the gym started from nothing and everyone is a beginner at some point!

It is also common to feel muscle soreness, aching and bruising after training. All these things are common. BJJ is a physical contact sport. These things might well be worse depending on the level of fitness you have prior to starting training but it will get less the more you train and as your body adapts!

What is the belt system in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

All beginners from the first day start from a white belt. Following that it goes: Blue, Purple, Brown and finally black. There is no set time between grades and no formalised grading system. Your progress will be constantly monitored in training and through sparring in every class. Your instructor will decide whether you get promoted when they feel your ‘game’ has advanced enough and your use of technique is of the level required. Remember the more frequently you train the better you will become!

Getting whipped with belts by the students, is this normal?

This is a traditional at Nova Forca. When a student grades or there is a birthday it is normal for the student to get whipped. Remember this is a celebration not a punishment and happens to everyone sooner or later.

My ear hurts hurts and seems to be swelling, what should I do?

This is the start of cauliflower ear. You may notice at training that some of the guys ears seem deformed or look likr rugby players ears. If you ignore the soreness and continue training without looking after it you will get ears that look the same and it is permanent.

Cauliflower ear is the result of the cartilage in your ear rubbing, becoming separated and then filling with blood. As a result the cartilage will die and the ear will remain permanently swollen and deformed.

To prevent this you can buy ear protectors for about £20. Most people do not use them on a regular basis though as they tend to be uncomfortable in training. Unfortunately this is the only sure way to protect against getting your ears damaged! If you ear swells then you will need to see a doctor immediately. Normally A&E is the best place. Here they will drain the blood from the ear with a needle and syringe and then bandage and compress it to prevent it filling with blood again. While it is healing you cannot train without risking damaging it again.