Your First Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Class in Sioux Falls: What to Expect

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling art. There is no striking — no punching or kicking at all. You learn takedowns, how to control positions on the ground, and how to finish or escape submissions using leverage instead of strength. That's why it works for smaller people, and why it's one of the safest ways to learn real self-defense.

• A t-shirt (no zippers, buttons or pockets) and athletic shorts or leggings.
• Rash guard and spats if you already own them — great, but not required.
• No gi needed for your first class. If you join, we'll help you pick one and you can buy it in our pro shop.
• Sandals or slides for walking off the mat — we train barefoot, and shoes never touch the mats.

• A water bottle — the mats get warm and classes move.
• A towel and a change of clothes if you're heading back to work.
• Your ID or your parent, if you're under 18 and it's your first visit.

Skip these on day one

• Buying a gi before you've trained. Try it first.
• Jewelry, rings and watches — leave them at home or in your bag.
• Long fingernails and toenails. Trim them; your training partners will thank you.

1. 1. Arrive 10–15 minutes early

   Before class

   Come in, meet a coach, sign in at the front desk and get a quick tour. We'll introduce you to a couple of people so you're not standing alone.

2. 2. Technique of the day

   30–35 min

   The coach demonstrates one position and two or three techniques from it, then you drill them with a partner at a slow, cooperative pace. Beginners are paired with experienced training partners who know how to teach the movement.

3. 3. Positional rounds

   15–20 min

   Light, controlled practice from a specific starting position. On your first day this is optional — plenty of people sit out and watch, and that's completely normal.

4. 4. Handshakes and questions

   Last 5 min

   Line up, shake hands with everyone who trained, and ask the coach anything. Most first-timers stay ten minutes afterward talking through what they just learned.

• Show up clean, in clean clothes, with short nails. Hygiene is the one rule nobody bends.
• Tap early and often. Tapping is information, not failure — it's how you train for years without injury.
• Tell your partner about injuries before you start. Everyone has something.
• If you need a break, take a knee at the edge of the mat. Nobody will think twice.

Times can change for holidays and events — the live schedule is always current.

Do I need to be in shape before my first BJJ class?

No. You set your own pace on day one, and conditioning comes from training itself. Most people are surprised how much they can do in their first class and how sore they are two days later.

Will I have to spar on my first day?

Live rounds are optional for beginners at Next Edge Academy. Many first-timers drill only and watch the rest, then start rolling after a few weeks.

Do I need a gi for my first class?

No. Wear a t-shirt and shorts. If you decide to keep training, one is provided with the cost of the beginner program.

What's the difference between gi and no-gi?

Gi training uses the jacket and pants for grips; no-gi uses a rash guard and shorts with no grips on clothing. We rotate gi and no-gi monthly, and our 6:00 AM Tuesday and Thursday classes are always no-gi.

How old do you have to be for adult BJJ?

Adult classes are 18 and up. Teens train 13–17, and Kids BJJ is for ages 6–12.

Is the first class free?

Yes — your first class at Next Edge Academy is free, and you can book it online before you come in.

Still have a question? Call 605-250-1339 or send us a message.

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