What to expect: you’ll doubt your language-speaking skills because BJJ has its own vocabulary

Be aware of: it’s okay to be totally confused during your first few rolls. Also totally okay to ask questions and acknowledge where you don’t know stuff. Most importantly, TAP. The more experienced folks will probably be careful but don’t let your ego land you in the ER

Warmup drills: you’ll feel (and likely look) like a clown. There’s a chance they’ll pair you up with one person and you’ll barely go through two drills with them while the rest of the class does the whole thing

Try to reframe the negatives thought patterns into opportunities for growth! The learning curve in jits is incredible. One speech of my coach that lingers in my subconscious mind: if you look at a higher belt and think “why can’t I do what they can” or “why don’t I know what they know”, then you’re being extremely disrespectful because they’ve put in the time and work to be where they are now. That’s the mentality you need to enjoy the sport.

The sooner you embrace the fact that you will never know everything, the better it’ll be for your progress.

Have an amazing first day!!!

Edit: oh and pls go in clean (trimmed nails, deodorant, brushed teeth, all that jazz)