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BJJ, answered before your first class

Do I need to be in shape before my first BJJ class?

No — you get in shape by training, not before you start. A good beginner class meets you where you are: you'll drill basic positions, escapes, and a submission or two at your own pace, and you can tap or take a breather whenever you need to. Wear comfortable athletic clothes (or a gi if you have one), bring water, and tell the coach it's your first time. 4,686 gyms here are flagged by members as genuinely beginner-friendly — look for the "Beginners welcome" badge. New to BJJ? Start here →

How much does BJJ cost a month?

Memberships at gyms here run around $70 a month, though they range widely — anywhere from about $20 to $250 a month depending on the academy and how often you train. The low-risk way to start: 3,719 gyms here offer a free trial or intro class — the "Free trial" badge flags them. Prices change often, so always check the gym's own schedule. Read the full cost guide →

Will I have to spar (roll) on my first day?

No. Beginners spend their first weeks on technique, positions, and drilling — nobody throws you into hard rolling. At most gyms live rolling is introduced gradually, only when you're ready, and tapping early and often keeps everyone safe. Leave your ego at the door and it's one of the friendliest rooms in martial arts. If it matters to you, ask a gym how it eases beginners into rolling before you join. Find beginner BJJ classes →

Can kids train BJJ, and what age can they start?

Yes — many gyms run kids' and teens' classes, often starting around age 4 to 6, focused on coordination, discipline, confidence, and a calm, effective approach to self-defense (BJJ's anti-bully reputation is a big reason parents enroll). 5,803 gyms in this directory list kids' or youth BJJ — check the "Kids & teens" badge, and always confirm the exact ages with the gym. Find kids BJJ near you →

Is there a free trial or intro class?

Often, yes — a free or discounted first class is the best way to try a gym before you commit, so you can meet the coaches, watch a class, and see how the room feels. 3,719 gyms here advertise a free trial or intro offer. Offers change, so confirm on the gym's own site. Find a gym with a free trial →

What should I wear and bring to my first class?

Comfortable athletic clothes you can move and sweat in, and plenty of water. For gi classes you'll train in a jiu-jitsu gi (kimono); for no-gi it's a rashguard and shorts. Most gyms will lend you a loaner gi for your first class, so you don't need to buy gear to start. As you keep training you'll want your own gi (or a rashguard and grappling shorts) and a mouthguard — and in time, the belt your academy awards you. See the full what-to-bring guide →

What's the difference between BJJ, judo, wrestling, and other martial arts?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling art fought mostly on the ground — the goal is to control your partner and finish with a joint lock or choke, and you "tap" to reset safely. Judo focuses on throws, wrestling on takedowns and top control, and striking arts like muay thai and boxing are stand-up. Many gyms in this directory teach more than one, so you can add takedowns or striking to your ground game under one roof. Compare BJJ vs other martial arts →

Are there women's BJJ classes?

Yes — BJJ is for everyone, and many gyms run women's classes or women-friendly beginner sessions in a welcoming, respectful room. 1,222 gyms here list a women's BJJ program. It's a supportive way to build fitness, confidence, and real self-defense skill. Find women's BJJ classes →