The First Step in a Long BJJ Journey

[Julian Figiel]

Hi! My name is Julian, and I'm 16 years old.

Today I just took my first real BJJ class! I have probably taken about 5 classes before, but those were 'teens' classes, and I simply feel that the adults class I took just a few hours ago was the real first step.

I'm sorry if the more experienced BJJ practitioners are growing tired of hearing beginners get all excited about starting, but I am just in need of some help.

I used to come into my 'teens BJJ' class acting like a bit of a hotshot - I'm not a bad kid; I am extremely respectful to all around me (I think!), I just feel strange because now that I'm in a class filled with even more white belts, green belts, blue belts, and even a few purple belts! I am not that great anymore; In fact, I am at the very bottom of the ladder. I have a long way to go, but I know I can do it, I love this sport!

I am collecting advice I have received from people and other resources. This is what I so far:

• Go to class consistently.
• Tap often.
• Set goals.
• ENJOY THE JOURNEY!
• When sparring, have a fight plan.
• Fight with good posture.
• STRETCH!
• Take risks and attack!

Do you agree with these tips? Are there any you could add?

Thank you for the help!

 

[Brian R. VanCise]

Green belts in a BJJ class? Who is your teacher?

Oh and congratulations on your training!

 

[Julian Figiel]

My dojo is actually quite a well-known one: TorontoBJJ. It's by far the best in Toronto, and I am glad to be there. One of my teachers is a Black Belt, I think his name is Jorge, and the other is Brown Belt, whose name I do not know.

 

[derobec]

My dojo is actually quite a well-known one: TorontoBJJ. It's by far the best in Toronto, and I am glad to be there. One of my teachers is a Black Belt, I think his name is Jorge, and the other is Brown Belt, whose name I do not know.

Hi Julian,

They've got a great lineage (and a nice user friendly website). Who cares what colour belts they incorporate into their syllabus?

Hope you have fun and keep going.

All the Best,
William

 

[Steve]

You sound pretty excited. That's great. It does look like you've found a good school.

Of all of the things in your list, I'd say consistency is the key. Train at least 3 times each week, if you can. 4 or 5 if your body lets you (and at 16, you're probably good).

One other thing is, while attacking and taking risks is great, but there's a time to slow down and pay attention to the details, too. That comes with time.

Take some time to read through Slideyfoot's extremely comprehensive beginner's FAQ. http://www.slideyfoot.com/2006/10/bjj-beginner-faq.html

It will help you get the most out of your training along with helping you become a valued training partner.

 

[Brian R. VanCise]

Thanks for the link Julian. It does indeed look like a good school! Get after it and enjoy!

 

[Julian Figiel]

Thanks everyone! You all helped me a lot! I AM EXCITED!

 

[BloodMoney]

Congratulations mate! Down get too down that everyone is better than you, I'm 10 years your senior and I'm a white belt at the bottom of the ladder too, I wish I'd started at your age. Just train hard man and one day youll be one of those seniors taking a 16 year old through his first class.

Good luck to you mate