Deciding to start learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) can be an exciting but daunting task, especially when it comes to finding the right gym to train. There are countless jiu-jitsu gyms all over the world, and choosing one can be a real challenge.

However, I believe that finding the perfect BJJ academy is crucial for your progress and overall enjoyment of the sport. In this blog post, I will share with you my personal experience of finding the right BJJ gym and some tips to help you choose the perfect one for you.

Research, research, research

The first step in finding the right BJJ academy for you is to research. Look for gyms in your area and check out their websites and social media pages. Read reviews from current and previous members, and ask for recommendations from friends who do BJJ. It's also important to check the lineage of the gym and its instructors to ensure that it's a legitimate BJJ gym.

Attend a trial class

Once you have a shortlist, attend a trial class at each gym. This is a great opportunity to get a feel for the gym's atmosphere, teaching style, and the other students. Take note of how welcoming the gym is towards new students, the level of cleanliness, and how knowledgeable the instructor is. This trial class will give you a good idea of what the gym is like day to day and whether it's a good fit for you.

Consider location and schedule

Another factor to consider is location and schedule. Make sure the gym you choose is convenient for you to get to, especially if you plan on training regularly. Additionally, check whether the gym's schedule suits your lifestyle. If you have a busy work schedule or other commitments, you may need to find a gym that has classes at different times of the day.

Some academies might be worth a longer drive or a more difficult schedule, but only if you feel the benefits outweigh the challenges. Consider your priorities and make an informed decision based on what will work best for you in the long run. If the distance limits your frequency of training, it may not be the most beneficial choice.

Look for a gym that matches your goals

Different gyms have different strengths and specialties, so consider what it is you want to achieve from learning BJJ. If you want to compete, look for a gym that has a strong competition team. If you're looking for a gym with a strong community and social events, look for one that has regular social events and a welcoming atmosphere. Whatever your goals, make sure the gym you choose aligns with them.

Ask for a trial period

Finally, before committing to a gym, ask for a trial period. Most gyms will offer some form of trial or introductory offer, which will let you train for a short period to see if the gym is right for you. This is a great way to try out different gyms and instructors before fully investing in one.

This will help you determine if the culture, schedule, and teaching style of the gym are a good fit for you. It will also give you a chance to meet and interact with the other students and see if you feel comfortable training alongside them. Make sure to take advantage of this opportunity before making a decision.

If you aren't comfortable with the gym after the trial period, don't be afraid to try out a different gym. Remember, finding the right BJJ gym is crucial for your learning and progress in this martial art. Don't feel pressured to stick with a gym just because you already started the trial period or have made some friends there. Your progress and enjoyment of BJJ should be the top priority.

Long contracts without trial periods are a red flag, and you should be wary of signing up for a gym without trying it out first. A reputable BJJ gym will understand the importance of finding the right fit and will be confident in its teaching methods and community.

Look for familiarity in novelty

I remember the day when my favorite BJJ gym closed down due to unforeseen circumstances (pandemic). It was a sad day for me and many other students who had trained there for years. We were like a family, and the gym was our second home.

But in that moment of despair, I saw something that gave me hope - familiar faces from my previous gym at the new gym I had recently joined. It was comforting to see my old training partners and instructors, whom I had formed strong bonds with, in this new space.

Novelty is always intimidating, especially in something as physically and mentally challenging as BJJ. But having these familiar faces at the new gym made the transition easier for me. They were able to introduce me to new people, help me adjust to the different training styles and techniques, and make me feel like I belonged.

This combination of nostalgic familiarity and exciting new opportunities made training at the new gym a refreshing experience. I was able to continue my journey in BJJ with some of the people who had been there since the beginning, while also meeting new people and learning from different instructors.

So, if you've ever been in a similar situation where your gym has closed down, don't be afraid to try out new gyms and see if any familiar faces are also there. It might just make the transition easier and even more rewarding.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a BJJ gym should be a well-thought-out and researched process. It's essential to find a gym that suits your goals, location, and schedule and that has a welcoming atmosphere with knowledgeable instructors.

By following the tips outlined in this blog, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect gym for you. Remember, it's essential to have fun and enjoy the learning process, so take your time and find the gym that aligns with your goals and best suits your needs.

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