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BJJ for Beginners in Memphis
6 gyms in Memphis, Tennessee show real evidence — from their own sites or students' reviews — of being a welcoming place to take your very first BJJ class. That first class is simpler than the nerves suggest: you don't need to be fit or flexible, you won't be thrown into hard rolling, and a patient coach walks beginners through technique with a partner at their own pace. Wear comfortable athletic clothes, bring water, and expect a warm-up, some movement drills, and a few positions and escapes learned slowly — most academies lend a gi so you don't need to buy anything yet. Gyms are ranked below by local reputation (rating weighted by review count), and with 6 beginner-friendly options in town, it's worth calling ahead, saying it's your first time, and asking which class on the schedule they'd start you with.
1. Memphis Judo Jiu Jitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 504 reviews
“Memphis Judo & Jiu-Jitsu has been an amazing experience for our family! Both of my daughters—ages 12 and 8—absolutely love their time here. The instructors are incredibly patient,…” — Kelsey
2. Midtown Grappling Academy
5 ★★★★★ 116 reviews
“I was traveling through Tennessee and dropped into Midtown Grappling to get a roll in. From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed. The atmosphere was friendly, professional, and…” — Nicholas
3. Midtown Krav Maga & Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 102 reviews
“Highly recommend this place for BJJ in Memphis! Josh is very welcoming and has a team of very talented and warm professors and coaches for both the kids class as well as the…” — Hector
4. Berserker Jiu-Jitsu Club
5 ★★★★★ 76 reviews
“I’ve trained in multiple gyms but this is where I’ve found a home. I have yet to find a place more welcoming. The instruction is top notch and easy to understand. Mike breaks down…” — Billmfjackson
5. Alliance Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 6 reviews
“Very friendly and welcoming gym. I came to visit before a tournament, and they took fantastic care of me and my teammates.” — Milo
Booking your first class in Memphis: practical notes
- Call ahead and say you're new. Ask which class they'd start a beginner with — many gyms have a fundamentals or all-levels class that's a gentler introduction than the main floor. A good front desk loves this question.
- Ask how rolling works. You won't be made to roll hard as a beginner; find out how and when a gym introduces live rolling so you know exactly what you're signing up for.
- Keep gear simple. Comfortable athletic clothes and water are enough for a first class — most academies here lend a gi, so you can try BJJ before buying anything. See the what-to-wear guide.
- Go at your own pace. Being winded the first time is normal and expected. Take breaks, drink water, and let your fitness build over your first few weeks — nobody expects a beginner to keep up with the regulars.
- Use a free trial. Many gyms offer a free trial class — the cheapest, lowest-pressure way to find the room that fits. See free BJJ trial classes.