What to Expect at Your First Class.
New to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Muay Thai? Here is exactly what happens at your first class at Gracie Barra Manotick, step by step, so nothing feels like a surprise.
Your first class is a free trial: you book a time, arrive about 15 minutes early in comfortable athletic clothes, and a coach meets you at the door. You do not need a gi or any gear to start, you train at your own pace, and you are welcome to simply watch if you would rather ease in. Here is the full walk-through.
Your first class, start to finish.
- Book a free trial. Reserve a class time online or by phone. Tell us who is training and whether it is for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Muay Thai, kids or adults.
- Arrive about 15 minutes early. This gives you time to find the academy at 5700 Longshadow St, meet a coach and get settled before class starts.
- Wear comfortable athletic clothes. A t-shirt and shorts or leggings are perfect. Avoid anything with zippers or pockets, and bring a water bottle.
- No gear needed to start. You do not need a gi, gloves or any equipment for a first class. We will guide you on what to bring once you decide to keep training.
- Meet a coach and your partners. A coach introduces you to the group, pairs you with a friendly training partner and walks you through a few fundamental movements.
- Watch or join in. Train at a pace that feels right, rest whenever you need, and ask as many questions as you like. If you would rather watch the first one, that is completely fine.
What to bring to your first class.
- Comfortable athletic clothes: a t-shirt and shorts or leggings
- A water bottle to stay hydrated
- Bare feet for the mats, and flip-flops or sandals for off the mat
- Any long hair tied back
- An open mind and a willingness to try something new
That is all you need. There is no gi, no gloves and no equipment to buy before you start. If you decide to keep training, a coach will walk you through what to pick up next. Not sure what to turn up in? See what to wear to your first class.
The things people worry about.
Am I too out of shape to start?+
No. Most people who start have not trained in years, or ever. You set your own pace, rest whenever you need, and the classes are built so complete beginners can follow along from day one. For a first-person walk-through, read what to expect at your first BJJ class.
Am I too old to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Muay Thai?+
No. Adults of all ages train at Gracie Barra Manotick, including people starting later in life. You train at your own pace and a coach adapts the fundamentals to you.
Will I get hurt in my first class?+
Your first class is about learning, not sparring. You move slowly, with a coach guiding you and a friendly partner, so a first class is low intensity. As you progress you only add live training when you are comfortable.
Do I need a gi to start?+
No. You do not need a gi or any gear for your first class. Comfortable athletic clothes are perfect, and we will guide you on what to bring once you are training regularly. Once you have a gi, here is how to tie a jiu-jitsu belt so it stays tied.
Ready to try it? Book a free trial, or read more about adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu before you come in.
Come try a class. See if it fits.
The hardest part is walking through the door. Book a free trial, meet a coach, and get a feel for the mats before you decide anything.