How to Start Jiu Jitsu: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners in Nashville
- Liberdade Jiu Jitsu
- Aug 30, 2025
- 5 min read
Starting something new is never easy. Starting something that involves close contact, sweat, submissions, and a sea of unfamiliar terms? That takes courage. But Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) isn’t about being fearless—it’s about showing up despite the nerves. If you’ve been wondering how to start Jiu Jitsu, you’re not alone. Thousands of people in Nashville and beyond are asking the same question.
At Liberdade BJJ, we specialize in helping beginners take that first step. Whether you’re looking to get fit, learn self-defense, build confidence, or simply try something new, this guide will walk you through every step of the journey—from your first class to your first tap.
What Is Jiu Jitsu and Why Start Now?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art rooted in leverage, timing, and technique. Unlike striking arts, BJJ teaches you how to defend, control, and submit an opponent using positional control, joint locks, and chokes. It emphasizes strategy over strength—making it accessible to people of all sizes and ages.
But beyond the technical aspects, BJJ is a personal transformation tool. It’s where anxiety meets calm. Where isolation turns into community. Where “I can’t” becomes “I did.”
So why start now?
Because life won’t slow down—and Jiu Jitsu teaches you how to handle that pace better. Whether you’re 18 or 48, learning how to start Jiu Jitsu is one of the best ways to upgrade your physical health, mental clarity, and social circle all at once.
How to Start Jiu Jitsu: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Many people get stuck before they ever set foot on the mat. They overthink, compare themselves to others, or worry about looking “bad.” The truth? Everyone starts the same way: unsure, awkward, and curious.
Let’s simplify the process with this beginner-friendly breakdown:
Step 1 – Choose the Right Jiu Jitsu School
Your experience will depend heavily on where you train. Look for a school that:
Offers a free or low-cost trial class
Has beginner-friendly instructors
Encourages questions and learning over competition
Prioritizes safety and respectful training partners
Provides loaner uniforms or lets you start in athletic wear
If you’re in Nashville, Liberdade BJJ checks all of these boxes. We built our academy with beginners in mind, so you’re never left guessing what to do or where to go.
Step 2 – Schedule a Free Class
The hardest part is showing up—but that gets easier when you know what to expect. Most academies have a class schedule online (ours is at liberdadebjj.com). Pick a time that works for you, send a message or fill out the trial form, and just commit to that first day.
Pro tip: Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” Jiu Jitsu makes you ready.
Step 3 – What to Wear to Your First Class
You don’t need fancy gear to start. Just wear:
A clean t-shirt or rashguard
Athletic shorts or leggings without zippers
Flip-flops for walking on/off the mat
If you’re trying a Gi class, ask if the school offers loaner uniforms. We provide one for free during your trial at Liberdade.
Step 4 – Show Up Early and Introduce Yourself
Arrive 10–15 minutes before class to meet the instructor, fill out any forms, and learn how things work. Don’t worry if you feel lost at first—your instructor and teammates will walk you through everything.
At Liberdade, we make it a point to welcome newcomers with kindness. We were all beginners once.
Step 5 – Focus on Learning, Not Winning
The goal of your first class is not to win or prove anything—it’s to experience. You’ll likely drill basic movements like shrimping, hip escapes, guard retention, and positional transitions. You may or may not spar (called “rolling”)—and that’s okay.
Ask questions. Laugh at your mistakes. Be a sponge.
Step 6 – Stay Consistent for the First Month
Progress in BJJ comes from repetition and consistency—not perfection. Commit to coming 2–3 times per week for the first month. That’s when you’ll stop feeling lost and start building muscle memory.
Not sure how to structure your schedule? We’ll help you build a routine.
Common Questions Beginners Ask (and Honest Answers)
“Am I too old to start Jiu Jitsu?”
Absolutely not. We’ve had first-timers in their 50s and 60s who thrive on the mats. Jiu Jitsu is for life, not just for athletes.
“Do I need to be in shape first?”
Nope. Jiu Jitsu will get you in shape. All you need is the willingness to start. Conditioning, flexibility, and strength will come as you train.
“What if I’m shy or socially anxious?”
You’re not alone—and many people choose Jiu Jitsu specifically to work through those challenges. The mat becomes a space where titles, careers, and insecurities fade away. You’ll build confidence through community.
“How do I know if a gym is a good fit?”
Watch how the instructors treat beginners. Are they patient? Do they encourage questions? Do higher belts help you, or ignore you? At Liberdade, we prioritize culture over ego—and our team reflects that.
Tips to Succeed as a Beginner
Tap early, tap often – Tapping isn’t failure; it’s how you learn and stay safe.
Ask your training partners for feedback – You’ll improve faster.
Journal what you learn – Even just 3 bullet points per class makes a difference.
Don’t compare yourself to others – Your path is your own.
Smile. Laugh. Keep showing up. – Enjoy the journey.
What Makes Liberdade the Best Place to Start Jiu Jitsu in Nashville?
Here’s what makes us the top choice for new students:
💥 Beginner-Only Classes: Designed for first-timers and white belts.
👊 Hands-On Coaching: Instructors explain why techniques work—not just how.
🧠 Mind–Body Focus: We teach skills for the mat and life.
🫂 Welcoming Culture: You’ll feel part of something bigger from day one.
🏆 Proven Track Record: Our students range from new parents to working professionals to amateur fighters.
You don’t need to be an athlete. You don’t need to be confident. You just need to show up once. We’ll take it from there.
The First Class Is the Hardest—But Also the Most Rewarding
The mat can be intimidating. But it’s also one of the most transformative places you’ll ever stand. You’ll sweat. You’ll mess up. You’ll get better.
And you’ll do it surrounded by people who are rooting for you.
If you’ve been searching “how to start Jiu Jitsu” and waiting for a sign—this is it.
🗓️ Book your free class at Liberdade BJJ today
📍 Downtown Nashville
🥋 No experience needed—just show up
You won’t regret starting. You’ll only regret waiting.
🔗 Internal Links:
Adult BJJ Classes in Nashville → https://www.liberdadebjj.com/adult-bjj
What to Expect in Your First BJJ Class → https://www.liberdadebjj.com/post/jiu-jitsu-for-beginners-nashville-guide
: Free Trial BJJ Class → https://www.liberdadebjj.com/free-bjj-class-nashville
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