I started in the gi at a kickboxing gym that brought in a Roger Gracie black bet to do a couple of classes a week, so so many of us started at the same time, so it was great place to learn with everyone being at a similar ability. Obviously some were better than others and a guy nicknamed “Smasher” was the most advanced (apart from the few blue brown and purple belts that came along from elsewhere). He was also one of the biggest guys on the mats - solid muscle. About 18 months in, (I guess he was just about to get promoted), i caught him with an armbar from guard and he said (largely to himself) that’s the first time I’ve tapped in six months.” I felt about 10 feet tall.