Hi guys, I will be starting my first BJJ class as soon as I get my job (which is like 1-2 weeks) I'm super excited and wondering if you experienced BJJ people have any helpful tips or pointers....Thanks alot.

im not a bjj expert but i could prbly give you a few tips, make sure you stretch alot so you can get really flexible, dont goof around, roll with as many people as you can, and when you do dont be afraid of trying as many moves as possible

okay thanks...Also, what kind of shape should I be in going into my first BJJ class....right now im stretching and doing yoga so I can be somewhat flexible....should I start running and lifting to try to build my strength and stamina up....or should I just go to class and once I do a few classes then start lifting....

Any shape, form, or fashion. It really does not matter because they will teach you to fit you. Have fun and do not be disappointed if you cannot sub someone in the first few months, just keep with it.

Remember P.I.T.S. for submissions.

P osition
I solation
T echnique
S ubmission

Remember to BREATHE!!! I cannot count the number of time new students do not breathe properly. When you are going for a technique breathe, do not hold your breath. Most people tend to hold their breath under strenuous tasks.

Also, if you are working a technique and are going no where with it, do not be afraid to flow into another technique.

GrappleorWrestle...This may be a dumb question (s)....would you advise wearing a cup/mouthguard for the class...maybe not the mouthguard but I hear some people wear one but I'm pretty sure most people wear cups....at least I think so...

Definitely so. I wear both and I do not regret it. Groin protection helps more than you think; wait till you start doing arm bars and such. You can squash the goods if you do not wear any groin protection. Cups are also good for when you are in north-south. Also mouth guards are a definite yes. I remember one time I did not wear mine and now I have a chipped tooth because I was accidentally head butted.

He's a wise guy is our GoW...and I agree with you 100% there. I have had a few bangs to the delicates that could have been avouided with a cup, take note of what he has said!

Thanks guys,

Man, the costs for all the equipment, gas and classes is killing me....hope it is worth it in the end.

Well if you stick with it I am pretty sure you will think it worth while...whether you choose to compete or do it just for the sport and love of it. It feels great and what a great way of testing and pushing yourself. I think most if not all here would agrewe with that as most of us have been where you are now UFCfan!

Alright, thats good to know...I'm 19 right now, so do u think it's too late to start...Right now my goal is training and then if it turns out I really enjoy it, I want to compete...I'm not saying like trying to get in the UFC in a few years because thats crazy, when I say compete like getting into some touraments, maybe some fights down the road or does it take like years of training to start doing that stuff....oh yea sorry, would a mouthguard from Dicks Sporting Goods be okay??? Thanks for all the help guys.

sorry mate, international BJJ rules state that all kinds of cups are illegal noaways as they may change the outcome of a fight. An armbar is much more tight with a cup. So I'd say get used to roll without the cup. I've been doing it since I started. Sure, you get a few hits but there's no real damage anyway. People stress out too much about losing their testies. An 19 is not too late to start. I was 20 when I started.

Gurre, But thats international BJJ??? Also, are UFC fighters allowed to wear cups...Gurre, losing ur testies is a big deal....not being able to have children with the special someone is a big deal...[/quote]

Yes, Cups are allowed....I just looked it up.

He was asking for practice not competition. In practice I wear as much protection as I can without compromising mobility. Heck, I still wear head gear some of the time.

Not only that, but if someone is trying to slide their knee up and "accidentally" tries to squash the man goods you better hope you have your groin protection.