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BJJ Training | Brazilian Jiu Jitsu | Self-Defense and Jiu-Jitsue Classes Near Me

BJJ Training

BJJ Training. Studying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a commitment that requires practice and discipline. That doesn’t make it inaccessible to potential students–it requires a commitment. At Gracie Barra”, it’s our goal to help students learn BJJ for self-defense, physical fitness, and confidence. You can contact our instructors today and give us a call at 636-266-9388 to learn more about BJJ training programs and how you can learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu near you and train for BJJ.

What Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that focuses on grappling and ground fighting. There is a major emphasis on leverage and technique that allows smaller opponents a better opportunity to take down larger ones–this tactic orginated from Japan’s Judo forms and evolved in Brazil over the past century.

How to Start Practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

No one can force you to go to a gym, work out, or practice a martial art. However, if you’re ready to make the jump and get the benefits of physical fitness, mental health, and social integration, here are a few steps you can take to access the in-depth and unique world of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu training near you in the St. Louis, area.

  1. Find a Gym: Check out local gyms and BJJ schools that are within a reasonable distance. You can ask friends, look online, and figure out what’s convenient and welcoming for you. Most schools will let you observe a class, inspect the facilities, and get a guided tour by an instructor if you call in advance or give us a call at 636-266-9388 and contact us online. You can also read reviews from others that have found their way to Gracie Barra Washington.
  2. Determine Personal Goals: Why do you want to studdy jiu-jitsu? Is it for weight loss, strengh training, Self-defense training enhances mental health, personal protection, competition, cross-training, or a combination of everything? It’s important to know what you’re looking to get out of any program you enter and–of course–not be surprised if your expectations change over time. BJJ training can be physically demanding and requires a serious commitment to come close to mastering.
  3. Try It Out: Most schools offer discounted or free trial classes for newcomers. This allows you to experience BJJ firsthand and to get to know the instructors you’ll be working with. It is important to pay attention in whatever introduction course you take, but don’t hesitate to ask the instructors about how their BJJ training gym is structured, what the curriculum is, and to voice any concerns you may have (especially if they involve physical limitations).
  4. Invest in Gear: Do some research on your own and double-check with your school of choice before investing in BJJ gear. If you attened BJJ training for a few sessions and don’t like it, know that you tried and spent money on gear you won’t need. The basic setup usually includes a mouthguard, a gi (or no Gi), or just basic gym clothes. Ask the gym for recomendations before making any serious investment.
  5. Make a Commitment: One way to fail any sort of physical therapy course is to not go to skip lessons. You should sign up for classes that match your skill level and work within your personal schedule in order to attend every session for training. This saves time for the other students and is the best way for you to get the results that you want. It’s important for us to offer you the chance to learn the principles, philosophies, and fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the Greater St. Louis area.
  6. Commit: Like with all gyms and worksout programs, the number one problem is commitment. You need to consider your schedule and the BJJ training to make it to as many classes within reason to keep up with training and to participate with the other students.
  7. Self-Reflection: Check on yourself to see how you’re doing and if you’re meeting goals, enjoying yourself, and learning something. If you aren’t feeling any one of these things, your instructors may be able to help. If this becomes an ongoing concern, you may need to look into a different lifestyle hobby.

BJJ training serves as a gateway to self-improvement, discipline, and physical fitness, offering a well-rounded approach to personal development.

Entering a BJJ training program is both challenging and rewarding. Approach it with an open mind, patience, and a willingness to learn and grow. Enjoy the process and the many benefits that come with it. We have programs for everyone including kids, teens, and adults. Contact the gym today or reach out to our expert BJJ trainers today at 636-266-9388 and contact us online.

Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training

Training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) offers numerous benefits beyond just learning self-defense. Consider the following advantages:

  • Improved Heart Health: Regular BJJ training boosts cardiovascular fitness, helping to lower blood pressure and promote better heart health.
  • Better Sleep: The physical activity involved in BJJ helps regulate sleep cycles, leading to deeper, more restorative sleep.
  • Boosted Self-Esteem: BJJ fosters confidence through mastering new skills, overcoming challenges, and increasing physical fitness, helping improve self-image.
  • Improved Social Skills: Training in BJJ encourages teamwork, communication, and respect, helping to build strong social connections.
  • Enhanced Mental Toughness: BJJ trains perseverance and resilience, pushing you to overcome physical and mental challenges, which enhances stress management and mental fortitude.
  • Increased Flexibility and Strength: Regular practice improves overall flexibility, core strength, and muscle conditioning, benefiting other physical activities as well.
  • Improved Cognitive Function: BJJ requires strategic thinking and problem-solving, which helps sharpen memory, concentration, and cognitive abilities.
  • Stress Reduction: The intense physical exertion and mental focus of BJJ provide an excellent outlet for reducing stress and improving overall mental health.

BJJ training is more than just a martial art—it’s a holistic pathway to physical fitness, mental resilience, and personal development. Through consistent practice, individuals not only build strength and improve cardiovascular health but also cultivate mental toughness by pushing through challenges and learning to adapt in high-pressure situations. The discipline, focus, and perseverance required in BJJ extend far beyond the mat, fostering personal growth, boosting confidence, and enhancing overall well-being. Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, sharpen your mind, or achieve personal goals, BJJ offers a well-rounded approach to enriching every aspect of life.

Expert BJJ Training

While everyone is different, there are a few core fundamentals you’ll want to keep in mind when you start BJJ training. Below are core concepts and practices to make sure you make the most of your sessions:

  1. Focus on Fundamentals: Master the basic techniques first. This includes escapes, guards, and sweeps that you’ll be shown early on. Strong fundamentals will give you a solid foundation to build on as you progress.
  2. Consistency is Key: Attend every class within your program to get the most out of the training. Repetition goes a long way in martial arts.
  3. Don’t Worry About Tapping: As a beginner, expect to tap out often. It’s part of the learning process and a chance to refine your technique.
  4. Ask Questions: If you have a question, ask an instructor or a more experienced student. BJJ has a steep learning curve and guidance is universal.
  5. Stay Relaxed: Try to remain calm and avoid using excessive strength. BJJ is more about technique than brute force. (i.e. a marathon, not a sprint)
  6. Watch and Learn: Observe how more experienced practitioners move, position themselves, and apply techniques. You can learn a lot from watching how they handle different holds and situations.
  7. Work on Your Conditioning: Building endurance, strength, and flexibility outside of class will enhance your BBJJ Training

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training Near Me

Other things you will learn include:

  • Ground fighting for chokes, joint locks, and learning positional control.
  • Maintaining position (mounting, side control, back control, etc.) is a huge component for learning BJJ.
  • Leg locks, arm bars, and other submission moves are pivotal elements for Jiu-Jitsu.

Your class will likely comprise of stretching, drilling, a few rolling demonstrations, and instructor notes. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is much more than exercise and learning self-defense techniques–BJJ helps students focus on mastering themselves in the moment and improve self-discipline.

Don’t hesitate to contact our instructors and give us a call at 636-266-9388 to learn more about our BJJ training programs in the Greater St. Louis area.

Monday: 11:30AM-1:30PM, 4–9PM
Tuesday: 4–9PM
Wednesday: 11:30AM-1:30PM, 4–9PM
Thursday: 4–9PM
Friday: 11:30AM-1:30PM, 4–8PM
Saturday: 10AM–1PM
Sunday: Closed
Get Directions (636) 266-9388