Getting started with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

You're about to take the leap and start something new. Whether it's you or your child, you likely want to know what will happen in your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class and beyond. No worries, we've got you covered.

At Riverdale Martial Arts, we understand that beginning a new journey can be both exciting and a bit intimidating. That's why we've put together this guide to help you feel prepared and confident as you step onto the mats for the first time. From the moment you walk through our doors, you'll find a supportive and welcoming community ready to assist you every step of the way.

In this guide, you'll learn about the structure of our classes, what to bring, and how our programs are designed to help both adults and children grow and succeed. Let's dive in and explore what you can expect during your first BJJ class at Riverdale Martial Arts.

For Kids

Our kids' classes at are designed to offer an educational and disciplined environment where children can learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and essential life skills. Here’s what you and your child can expect:

Equipment and Uniforms:

• A clean uniform (Gi) and necessary equipment will be provided for your child during their free trial. We recommend bringing a water bottle and a tight-fitting shirt to wear under the uniform.

Class Structure

1. Lining Up and Warm-Up Activities:

   • Each class starts with students lining up to promote discipline and focus.

   • We then move into warm-up activities that foster focus and physical readiness. These activities include stretching, basic exercises, and agility drills that prepare the children for the lesson ahead.

2. Technique Instruction:

   • The core part of the class involves teaching specific techniques. Instructors demonstrate each technique clearly and provide step-by-step guidance.

   • Children practice these techniques with partners, starting with minimal resistance and gradually increasing the difficulty. This gradual increase helps children understand the technique thoroughly and develop confidence.

3. Learning Through Peers:

   • Our program is designed to encourage resourcefulness and independent thinking. Children not only learn from instructors but also by observing and interacting with their peers. This peer learning helps them become more independent and fosters a collaborative environment.

4. Live Practice, Sparring, and Games:

   • After technique drills, kids participate in specific training exercises where they apply what they have learned with increasing resistance from their partners.

   • Classes often conclude with either rolling (sparring) or games that incorporate the techniques learned. Sometimes, both activities are included, ensuring a balanced and engaging learning experience.

Building Life Skills:

• Our kids' classes emphasize more than just physical skills. We focus on building discipline, respect, and self-confidence. Each session aims to instill valuable life skills that will benefit children both on and off the mats.

Creating a Supportive Environment:

• We strive to create a positive, supportive, and engaging environment for our young students. Our instructors are dedicated to making sure each child feels valued and encouraged, promoting a love for martial arts and lifelong learning.

For Adults

Our adult classes are structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience that balances physical conditioning, technical training, and live practice. Here's what you can expect when you join our adult classes:

Equipment and Uniforms:

• A clean uniform (Gi) and necessary equipment will be provided for you during your free trial. We recommend bringing a water bottle and a tight-fitting shirt to wear under the uniform.

Class Structure

1. Lining Up and Warm-Up Activities:

   • Each class begins with students lining up, fostering discipline and focus.

   • We proceed with a dynamic warm-up session designed to sharpen focus and prepare the body for training. These activities may include stretching, cardiovascular exercises, and agility drills to ensure you are mentally and physically ready for the lesson.

2. Technique Instruction:

   • The core of our class involves the demonstration and teaching of specific techniques. Each technique is meticulously explained and demonstrated by our experienced instructors.

   • Students practice these techniques with a partner, starting with minimal resistance to understand the fundamentals. As the class progresses, the resistance from your partner increases to simulate real-world scenarios, helping you develop practical skills and adaptability.

3. Live Practice and Sparring:

   • Following the technique drills, students engage in positional sparring or live rolling. This segment allows you to apply the techniques learned in a controlled yet dynamic environment, further refining your skills and building resilience.

   • Depending on the class focus, sessions may include dedicated time for rolling (sparring) where you can test your techniques against a live opponent under the supervision of our instructors.

4. Conclusion:

   • Classes often conclude with a review of the techniques covered and a brief Q&A session where students can ask questions and get additional insights from the instructors.

Fostering a Supportive Community:

• Our classes are designed to create a supportive and collaborative learning environment. We emphasize mutual respect, continuous improvement, and community spirit, ensuring that every student feels welcome and encouraged on their martial arts journey.