Introductory BJJ Class Free Trial Northridge CA

 

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey at Gracie Barra Northridge with the free introductory class is a highly structured, safe, and welcoming experience designed specifically for the absolute beginner. The goal of this session is to demystify BJJ and showcase the quality of the GB1 Fundamentals Program.

 

Here is a detailed breakdown of what you should expect, wear, and bring for your first class.

 

1. 👕 Preparation: What to Wear and Bring

 

The most important preparation involves hygiene and minimal gear.

 

 Category  Requirement  Detail

 

 Attire (Provided)  Loaner Gi (Uniform): You do not need to buy a Gi. Gracie Barra typically provides a clean Gi (jacket and pants) for your trial class.  Wear comfortable athletic clothes (clean T-shirt and shorts/leggings with no zippers) underneath the borrowed Gi. 

 Hygiene  Mandatory: Arrive freshly showered, with fingernails and toenails trimmed short. Remove all jewelry, rings, and piercings.  This is the most crucial etiquette rule in BJJ to ensure the safety and health of your training partners. 

 Footwear  Flip-Flops/Sandals: You must wear shoes when walking off the mat (to the changing room, restroom, or water fountain) and remove them before stepping onto the mat.  This prevents tracking germs onto the clean training surface. 

 Essentials  Water Bottle: You will sweat heavily. Towel: For wiping sweat. Positive Attitude: Leave your ego at the door; be ready to learn and struggle safely.  Bring plenty of water. You will not need a mouthguard or athletic cup for the introductory Fundamentals session. 

 

2. 🤝 Arrival and Initial Protocol

 

 Punctuality: Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a liability waiver, meet the front desk staff, and get fitted for your loaner Gi.

 The Welcome: Staff will introduce you to the instructor (Professor if a black belt, or Coach). You may be given a quick tour of the clean, modern facility.

 Mat Etiquette: Observe and follow the tradition of bowing when stepping on and off the mat, reinforcing respect for the training space and the martial art.

 

3. 📝 The Class Structure (GB1 Fundamentals)

 

Your introductory class will be a streamlined version of the GB1 Fundamentals, focused entirely on building a safe technical foundation. Classes typically last 60–90 minutes.

 

 Phase  Duration  Focus and Expectations

 

 Warm-Up  10–15 mins  Focuses on essential BJJ mobility movements, such as the Hip Escape (Shrimping) and Breakfalls (how to fall safely). This is a functional preparation for the techniques to come. 

 Technical Instruction  30–40 mins  The black belt instructor demonstrates one or two core, beginner-level moves (e.g., a simple mount escape or an armbar mechanic) in clear, step-by-step detail. 

 Cooperative Drilling  15–20 mins  You will practice the move repetitively with a cooperative partner (often a higher-ranked student who acts as a mentor). The goal is to build muscle memory safely, not to beat your partner. 

 Live Practice/End  Final 5–10 mins  You will not be required to spar (“roll”) during your first introductory class. If a controlled drill is done, it will be strictly positional and highly supervised. The class ends with a formal lineup and bow. 

 

 🧠 Mental Expectations and Safety Assurance

 

 Mental Overload: You will likely forget 90% of what you are shown. This is normal. The GB1 program is designed for repetition over 16 weeks to combat this.

 Safety Assurance: The most important rule you learn is the “tap.” If you feel pain, pressure, or discomfort, a physical tap on your partner or a verbal “tap” stops the action immediately and unconditionally. You must leave your ego at the door and tap early to stay safe.

 Community: The “Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone” philosophy ensures a supportive, ego-free atmosphere where senior students are expected to guide and assist beginners, making the start of your journey welcoming and motivating.

 

After the class, the staff will answer any questions you have about the membership options, schedule, and next steps in your training.

 

Would you like the contact information for Gracie Barra Northridge to schedule your free trial?

 

Gracie Barra Northridge Location & Contact:

 

Address: 19520 Nordhoff St 10th, Northridge, CA 91324

 

Phone: +1 818-357-4074

 

Website: gbnorthridge.com

Introductory BJJ Class Free Trial Northridge CA