Roughly 3.6 million people in the United States practice martial arts. It’s important that you learn how to defend yourself, and martial arts can be a literal lifesaver.
Brazilian jiu-jitsu is one of the most practical and useful martial arts that you can learn. The popularity of mixed martial arts (MMA) as a sport skyrocketed the popularity of BJJ.
There are gyms all over that you can join, which begs the question – How can you find the right one? We’re happy to provide answers.
Keep reading to learn more about how to find the right BJJ gym for you.
Get to Know What You Want From Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-jitsu is a grappling art that teaches you how to use leverage, momentum, and technique to subdue or attack your opponent. Figure out what you’d like to get from BJJ so that you can find the school that’ll help accommodate you.
BJJ is great for a cardio workout. This not only strengthens your heart, but also leads to healthier veins, joints, and brain.
When browsing schools, consider some of the following characteristics:
- Whether you mostly prefer gi or no-gi training
- If the school focuses on sports BJJ or more practical self-defense
- Access to training partners that compete in tournaments or fight professionally
- The philosophy of the school and moves they focus on
- If they mix in striking and judo
Read Up on the Professor
Training jiu jitsu requires the help of a skilled and seasoned professional. Before choosing a school, find out how long they’ve been doing jiu-jitsu, where they got their black belt, and how many degrees they have on their belt.
BJJ grappling is a lifelong journey, so pick their brain to find out their teaching methods and philosophies. Learn whether the lead BJJ professional competes in tournaments and whether they have any medals or special designations.
Check Out the Class Schedule
Look throughout the class schedule to find out what BJJ training opportunities you can take part in each week. Most schools offer morning and evening classes, along with a mix of gi and no-gi.
Consider whether they offer private instruction, kid’s classes, and other specialty classes that can deepen your appreciation of martial arts. The gym should also have a class schedule that fits into your time and lifestyle.
Audit a Class
You won’t be able to know whether it’s a good school or not until you train with the professor and other students. Most gyms allow you to take a free class so that you can get a feel for it and find out whether you like it.
During this class, you’ll learn some basic principles of the art, the ranking of BJJ belts, respecting the tap, and other protocols.
Taking a class will help you learn more about Brazilian Jiu Jitsu through experience. You’ll get a feel for it and will find out how it feels to train and compete.
Consider the Cost and Contract
Of course, you have to consider the cost of the gym membership. Find out whether they offer memberships on a contract basis or month to month.
Ask about the price structure and find a school that’s affordable. This will help you fit it into your budget so you can train without lapses.
Find the Best BJJ Gym
These points will help you find the best BJJ gym for your needs. Start with these points so that you can begin your martial arts journey to the fullest.
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