Students at Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club watch as an instructor teaches a new technique
Thinking about trying your first Jiu-Jitsu class? Whether you’re looking for a new way to stay fit, reduce stress, or build real-world self-defense skills, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most effective and empowering activities you can do as an adult. But we get it—taking that first step can feel intimidating.
At Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club, we’ve been helping adults from Del Mar, Solana Beach, Carmel Valley, Encinitas, Torrey Pines and Rancho Santa Fe take that first step since 2015. To make it easier, here are five things you should (and shouldn’t) do before stepping on the mat for your first class.
1. ✅ Do: Just Show Up (After Scheduling Your First Class)
❌ Don’t: Overthink It
Here’s the truth—the hardest part of training Jiu-Jitsu is simply walking through the door for the first time. You don’t need to study techniques or read blogs for hours. You don’t need to be fit or flexible. All you need to do is show up.
BUT—please make sure to schedule your first class with us in advance.
We want to make sure we’re prepared to welcome you, introduce you to your instructor, and give you the best possible experience. When people walk in unannounced, it can catch us off guard—especially during our busy sessions. A quick heads-up goes a long way.
We specialize in helping beginners take that first step—and we’re excited to meet you. Just let us know you’re coming!
2. ✅ Do: Wear Comfortable Workout Clothes
❌ Don’t: Stress About Gear
You don’t need a Gi (Jiu-Jitsu uniform) for your first class. Just wear a t-shirt and athletic shorts or leggings without zippers or pockets. If you decide to stick around—and we think you will—we’ll help you get fitted with the right gear for your goals.
Bonus: We keep a few spare Gis on hand just in case you’d like to try a traditional Gi class for your intro.
3. ✅ Do: Show Up Out of Shape
❌ Don’t: Wait Until You’re “Fit Enough”
We hear this all the time: “I want to get in shape first, then try Jiu-Jitsu.”
Don’t wait. That’s backwards.
Jiu-Jitsu gets you in shape. It’s one of the most dynamic and functional workouts you can do—improving strength, flexibility, cardio, and coordination all at once. And the best part? It doesn’t feel like a workout. It feels like learning a new superpower.
Need some extra fitness support? Adult members of Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club have full access to our in-house fitness facility, available exclusively to help you reach your training and lifestyle goals.
4. ✅ Do: Come With a Beginner’s Mindset
❌ Don’t: Be Hard on Yourself
No one walks into their first Jiu-Jitsu class knowing what to do. You’re not expected to be “good” at Jiu-Jitsu on day one—or even month one. This is a lifelong art that rewards patience, humility, and consistency.
Come in curious. Be open to learning. Laugh when you mess up. That’s the secret sauce to progressing in Jiu-Jitsu.
5. ✅ Do: Talk to Your Instructors
❌ Don’t: Stay Silent if You Have Questions
Jiu-Jitsu is a community. We’re here to support you. Nervous? Curious about what to expect? Wondering what class you should take first? Just ask.
Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club is known for its laid-back, welcoming environment and top-tier instruction led by experienced black belts. We’ve helped hundreds of adults begin their Jiu-Jitsu journey—and we’re ready to help you too.
Final Thoughts
Starting something new as an adult can feel like a big leap. But Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just about learning to fight—it’s about learning to grow. You’ll build confidence, resilience, and friendships that extend far beyond the mats.
So what should you do before your first class at Del Mar Jiu-Jitsu Club?
Nothing. Just show up.
Ready to Try a Class?
We offer morning, afternoon, and evening adult Jiu-Jitsu classes Monday through Saturday right here in Del Mar.
📍 2120 Jimmy Durante Blvd #121, Del Mar, CA 92014
📞 (858) 265-8982
🌐 www.delmarjiujitsuclub.com
We’ll take it from there.