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BJJ for Beginners in Spokane
7 gyms in Spokane, Washington 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 7 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. Redemption Brazillian JiuJitsu and MMA
5 ★★★★★ 88 reviews
“Ryan is phenomenal person. He is passionate, kind, caring and overall a monster in MMA/BJJ. 2 1/2 years ago I came to one of Ryan’s classes at a previous gym and he welcomed me in…” — Jamie
2. Newborn Cascao Jiu Jitsu
4.9 ★★★★★ 86 reviews
“I have been a student at Newborn for about 6 months now and I absolutely LOVE it! James is an outstanding instructor and an overall great person! The gym hosts people from all…” — Pete
3. Infiniti Newborn Cascao Jiujitsu
5 ★★★★★ 47 reviews
“Excellence is in the details. From when you walk in, to your last sparring roll, this & Newborn Cascão are THE BJJ academies to go to in eastern Washington. Jamie & Melissa are…” — Eric
4. Gracie Barra North Spokane
4.6 ★★★★★ 22 reviews
“Gracie Barra North Spokane has quickly become my go-to spot for top-notch Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. The quality of instruction and the supportive community make it an…” — Devin
5. SMASH Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 18 reviews
“A friendly and welcoming community with a traditional mindset and approach to modern sport and self defense Jiu Jitsu. Highly recommended!” — Black
6. Push + Pull Jiu Jitsu
5 ★★★★★ 13 reviews
Booking your first class in Spokane: 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.