What to Wear to Your First BJJ Class: A Beginner’s Guide

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is exciting, but many beginners arrive with the same question: What should I wear to my first BJJ class?

The answer depends on whether you are attending a Gi or No-Gi class. This guide will help you choose comfortable, safe clothing so you can focus on learning and enjoying your first experience on the mats.

What to Wear for a Gi BJJ Class

A BJJ Gi is the traditional uniform used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It normally includes a reinforced jacket, matching pants and a belt.

If the academy can lend you a Gi for your first class, wear comfortable athletic clothing underneath it. A fitted rashguard is a good option because it helps reduce friction and prevents a loose shirt from moving during training.

If you decide to continue training, invest in a properly fitted BJJ Gi. It should allow you to move freely without being excessively loose or heavy.

Beginners normally start with a white belt. Your academy can confirm whether you need to purchase one or whether it is included with your Gi.

What to Wear for a No-Gi BJJ Class

For No-Gi training, wear:

• A fitted rashguard or compression shirt

• Grappling shorts without exposed zippers or metal parts

• Compression leggings or spats underneath the shorts, if preferred

Avoid loose cotton shirts because they can become heavy with sweat, move during grappling or catch on fingers and toes.

Regular gym shorts may be acceptable for a trial class, but check that they do not have pockets, exposed zippers or hard accessories. Clothing designed for grappling offers better flexibility, durability and comfort during training.

Do You Need to Wear Shoes?

Shoes are never worn on the mats. Most academies require students to leave their shoes outside the training area.

However, you should wear sandals or flip-flops whenever you walk away from the mats, especially when going to the bathroom. This helps keep the training area clean.

What Should You Bring?

For your first BJJ class, bring:

• Water

• A clean towel

• Sandals or flip-flops

• Clean training clothes

• A change of clothes for after class

• A bag for your used equipment

Keep your fingernails and toenails short, remove jewellery and tie back long hair before training.

Choosing the Right BJJ Gear

Good BJJ equipment should feel comfortable, stay securely in place and allow unrestricted movement.

A quality rashguard helps manage moisture and protects your skin from friction. Grappling shorts should provide flexibility without restricting your hips, while a properly sized Gi should be durable enough to handle gripping and pulling.

Always check the product size chart before ordering. If you are between sizes, ask the academy or brand for guidance.

Your First Class Is About Learning

You do not need expensive equipment or advanced skills to begin Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Arrive with clean, safe clothing, listen to your instructor and approach the class with an open mind.

Everyone on the mat had a first day.

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