What to Wear to Your First Class
No gi? No problem. Exactly what to wear, what to bring, and what to avoid for day one.
One of the biggest barriers to starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is not knowing what to wear. Good news: you probably already own everything you need. Here's the complete guide.
The Basics
For your first class, you need comfortable athletic clothes. That's it. A t-shirt and shorts or leggings work perfectly. You don't need a gi (the traditional uniform) for your first session.
What to Wear
Top
A fitted t-shirt or athletic shirt. Avoid baggy shirts — they can get caught, ridden up, and interfere with drilling. A moisture-wicking athletic shirt is ideal but not required.
Bottom
Athletic shorts or leggings. Again, fitted is better than baggy. Board shorts, running shorts, or spandex shorts all work. Leggings are fine and common.
Undergarments
Wear whatever you'd wear to any workout. A sports bra for women is recommended.
Footwear
Flip-flops or slides. You'll take your shoes off on the mat, so slip-on footwear makes life easier. You don't train barefoot in the gym area — you walk to the mat barefoot, then put shoes back on to leave.
What to Avoid
- Zippers, buttons, or metal — can injure your partner
- Jewelry — rings, watches, necklaces, earrings. They get caught and cause injuries.
- Long nails — trim finger and toenails before class
- Baggy clothing — interferes with drilling
- Anything with pockets — things fall out and get lost
- Heavy makeup or lotions — can transfer to your partner or the mat
Hygiene
Jiu-jitsu is a close-contact sport. Good hygiene matters — both for your training partners and for you:
- Shower before class if you can
- Clean clothes every class — don't re-wear sweaty gear
- Trim nails — finger and toe
- Tie back long hair — so it doesn't get pulled
- Cover any cuts or open skin — with athletic tape or a bandage
- Don't train if you're sick — with anything contagious
What to Bring
- Water bottle — you'll want it
- Towel — you'll sweat
- Flip-flops or slides — for walking to/from the mat
- Change of clothes — if you want to shower after
- Small bag — for your belongings
About the Gi
The gi is the traditional uniform — a heavy woven jacket and pants, tied with a colored belt indicating rank. You don't need one for your first class. Check with the academy to see if loaner gis are available if you want to train in one.
If you decide to keep training, you'll eventually want your own gi. Ask the coach for recommendations when you're ready.
For Kids
The same rules apply for kids: comfortable athletic clothes, no zippers or buttons, no jewelry, nails trimmed. Many kids train in a gi from the start — check with the academy about gi options for kids.
Common Questions
Can I wear a regular bra?
A sports bra is recommended for comfort and support. A regular bra works in a pinch but isn't ideal for the movement involved.
What if I don't own athletic clothes?
Any comfortable, fitted clothing works. A plain t-shirt and shorts you already own is fine. Don't buy anything special for your first class.
Should I wear makeup?
Avoid it. It can transfer to your partner, the mat, and your own gi. If you do wear makeup, be aware it will smudge.
Can I train barefoot?
Yes, you train barefoot on the mat. But wear flip-flops or slides to walk to and from the mat area.
Ready to Train?
Now that you know what to wear, book your free first class. No experience needed. No gi needed. Just show up.