Thinking about starting Jiu-Jitsu but holding off? Maybe you’re terrified of being humbled, tested, or simply ashamed. Believe me, I’ve been there.
I made every excuse in the book, including “I’m not ready,” “I’ll start when I’m in shape,” and “What if I look ridiculous?” But, you know what? When I eventually took the first step, I realized none of it mattered—and I’ve never looked back.
Starting Jiu-Jitsu can be frustrating, especially if you have the wrong perspective. It’s a completely new world, and success will not happen overnight. Everyone enters this adventure with varied physical abilities and aspirations, but here’s the truth: you will lose. A lot.
Yes, even if you’ve been lifting weights and think you’re strong, someone smaller, faster, or simply better will easily overcome you. It’s humbling, but it’s all part of the charm. The mats don’t care how tough you appear; they worry about technique, timing, and patience.
It’s a long game, not a sprint!
At first, you’ll feel as if you know nothing—and that’s because you don’t! As a white belt, you have a minimal toolkit. Your primary focus will be on escapes, basic moves, and defense.
Sometimes you’ll learn a method yet fail to execute it 100 times. Other times, a move works instantly and improves your game. It’s a rollercoaster, and it can be frustrating.
But here’s the thing: if you continue with it, you will begin to see results. You’ll gradually transition from survival mode to attack mode.
Every small victory, whether it’s escaping side control or completing your first sweep, feels big. And this is what makes Jiu-Jitsu so fulfilling.
Enjoy the Journey, Even When It’s Tough.
One of the most valuable lessons Jiu-Jitsu teaches is to embrace the grind. Laugh when you’re tapped by someone half your size. Celebrate tiny successes, like going 30 seconds longer before being choked. Treat each session as an adventure rather than work.
Frustration will occur, but here’s a secret: it’s part of the process. Jiu-Jitsu is more than just learning movements; it also teaches patience, humility, and resilience.
The more you roll with individuals who push you, the stronger you will become. Yes, you will experience bad days. You’ll feel stuck, as if you’re not progressing. However, it is during difficult times that true progress occurs.
Train Smart, Train with the Right People.
It’s important who you train with. Find partners who will challenge you but not break you. Roll with people who are better than you to level up, and mix it up with others at your level to test your talents.
It’s alright to take a break and practice with someone less experienced to improve your skills. Balance is essential to progress.
If you’re struggling with a difficult class, don’t be hesitant to ask questions or take things slowly. Everyone has been a beginner, including the black belts who now appear untouchable. Like you, they all began at the bottom and eventually reached their peak.
Jiu-Jitsu is life in disguise.
Jiu-Jitsu serves not only as a martial art but also as a metaphor for life. It teaches you how to accept challenges and turn failures into opportunities.
When you feel like quitting, remember that anything worthwhile requires effort. The difficulties, smiles, and humility are all part of what makes Jiu-Jitsu so unique.
Do not let fear or frustration hold you back. Show up, continue your training, and enjoy the journey. Because one day, you’ll look back and realize that those difficult times made you stronger—on the mats and in life.
Thank you for reading! ━ ◦ ❖ ◦━ Subscribe to my newsletter to receive the latest MMA Jiu-Jitsu stories and news as soon as they are published.