Your first class, explained
Nobody is thrown in at the deep end. Here’s exactly what happens, minute by minute, so you can walk in knowing what to expect.
What happens in your first BJJ class?
- First 5 min
Arrive & meet your coach
Get there 10 minutes early. A coach greets you by name, shows you where to change, and answers anything before you step on.
- 10 min
Warm-up
A steady, joint-friendly warm-up. Go at your own pace. There's no fitness test to pass.
- 25 min
Technique, taught step-by-step
A clear technique, broken down and demonstrated, along with where it fits in the bigger system. You'll understand the “why”, not just copy the “what”.
- 15 min
Controlled practice with a partner
You drill the technique with a friendly partner at a slow, cooperative pace. A coach checks in on you.
- Optional
Watch the rolling, if you like
No live sparring in your first class unless you want it. You're welcome to sit and watch the experienced members roll.
- After
Chat with a coach
We'll talk through how it felt and answer any questions. Only if you're ready, we'll tell you about the next beginner course.
What should you wear and bring?
- Shorts and a t-shirt (nothing with zips or pockets)
- A water bottle
- Flip-flops for walking off the mat
- Clean feet and short nails (that's the etiquette)
- No gi needed. We’ll lend you one if the class uses it and sort you out with anything else.
How do you find us on the day?
Unit 3, City Gateway, SwaythlingSouthampton, SO16 2JA
City Gateway is the business units just off Thomas Lewis Way (A335). Turn in and follow the road round: we're Unit 3, with the MTHD sign above the door. Park in the car park just across the road from the unit, free for eight hours with plenty of space, then walk over and come straight in.
- By car: Use the car park just across the road from the unit: it's free for eight hours and there's plenty of space, so it covers any class or open mat with time to spare. There's on-street parking on Burgess Road too.
- By train: Swaythling station is about a five-minute walk away.
- By bus: The Unilink U1 stops nearby on the A335.
Not fit, too old, or worried about getting hurt?
“I'm not fit enough.”
You get fit by doing it. You set the pace, rest whenever you need, and nobody is watching or judging. Most people are surprised how quickly it comes.
“I'm too old.”
We've seen athletes training well into their 50s. BJJ rewards patience and technique over athleticism, and being older is genuinely an advantage in how you learn.
“Will I get hurt?”
Beginner classes are controlled and cooperative: no slamming, no cranking. You tap, your partner stops, immediately. Safety is the coaches' first job.
“I'll embarrass myself.”
Everyone in that room was a nervous beginner once, and they remember it. You'll be looked after, not shown up. Fumbling the first few times is all part of the journey.
The buddy system
Every newcomer is paired with an experienced member for their first few weeks: someone to drill with, ask the “silly” questions, and stand next to when the room feels new. You won’t be left figuring it out alone.
The beginners course
Our structured four-week course runs on a fixed start date: two dedicated evening sessions a week, learning alongside a group at the same stage. By the end you’ll know the core positions, escapes, and etiquette, and be ready to join any class with confidence.
READY? YOUR FIRST CLASS IS FREE.
Pick a day that suits you. We'll confirm within a few hours.