“I was drowning” - Why He Quit BJJ After 2 Classes

After his first two classes at a BJJ school near his house, Frank injured his back while sparring. Before he quit for good, he learned about the Gracie Combatives beginner program and decided to give it a chance. This is what he had to say after his first class.
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[@nn-NeuralNetwork]

I quit because the coach made the class do a 10 minute ab circuit the first class

[@zachbosworth6139]

I get that. but don't be afraid to talk to coach and tell him ur having trouble keeping up but want to keep showing up. sucks to feel like it's sink or swim but if u want it you'll find a way

[@jsar5409]

Dude quit before even getting to the jiu-jitsu, damn lol

[@coyoteclone]

I used to train at a Gracie CTC (was a three stripe white belt, only rolled once). I do highly recommend the Gracie Combatives curriculum for beginners. Go at least twice a week (i only went twice a month). Repetition is key. You will learn some basic moves for self defense. When I later went to a sport bjj gym, I at least knew some of the ABC's of jiu-jitsu, however I did get LMNOP'd by blue belts when I started to spar. I was able to pull off the tripod sweep on some blue belts when sparring at the new gym. My new coach (an MMA guy) taught a self defense class which was alot of punch defense Gracie Jiu Jitsu. He told us things like ashi garami and leg locks will probably get you knocked out in a real fight. Gracie Academy does have Jiu Jitsu vs Jiu-jitsu classes that I hadn't graduated to. When I received my blue belt (at the new gym) I was waiting to take a picture with my coach and a new student playfully put me in a standing headlock. I used the headlock escape I learned previously in Gracie Combatives, to smoothly take him down. That could have been an embarrassing moment. Instead I was complimented on the technique, which I hadn't done in years. Someone in the chat brought up John Danaher (who i love). He's great if you enjoy 8 hour dvd's on tying your left shoe (volume 2 to follow). Most beginners aren't ready for his level of detail. Ryron and Rener have modified an excellent system for teaching jiu jitsu that goes way back.

[@qazmko22]

glad he found his place.

[@qwertyuiop2895]

Problem: most gyms are competition oriented (although they hide it, they advertise the club using "BJJ is for everyone" cliche). If you don't compete and win medals for the club, you are "inferior" member, they don't take you seriously (of course it's covert, polite, not direct).

[@mkornacki]

I’m his age and quit Renzo’s after a dozen classes due to a broken finger and cracked rib. They roll hard.

[@lovernotfighter]

I took BJJ in the 90's in San Diego. I was 48 and had been doing Judo I was Ikkyu Brown Belt supposed to take the Black Belt test. I was not satisfied with my ground fighting abilities though. I switched to the newly opened BJJ Academy and started learning ground fighting at last. I went for 4 years and was doing alright, then I started experiencing lots of problems. I tired too easily I was getting submitted to often. I couldn't figure it out. I even got yelled at in front of the class once, for not taking enough classes, the instructor thinking that's what was wrong with me. I finally quit after a separated shoulder and some other injuries. I went to the Dr. one day and he found out I had developed Type 2 diabetes and that was the cause of it all. I got put on the proper medications and after a while began to feel the need to workout again. I didn't want to do BJJ anymore though. Enough humiliation to last me for a lifetime. I found a Shorin Ryu Okinawin Karate school and reached the level of Ikkyu (1st Degree Brown Belt) the next test was Black Belt and I was the best student in the class. I'm 71 now 72 in March. I only watch the MMA on TV now. anyway that's my story.

[@MeetJohnnyNg]

Hurt my back the second day of class. and 3 months to recover. Don’t pressure students into competiting. For me I just want to learn and have fun.

[@2446686]

I'm a GU BBS1. Been around the marital arts for 40+ years. GU is by far the best, most organized, most detailed on line training platform I've ever seen.

[@andrewblack7852]

There are now lots of mcjitsu schools

[@gregor955]

My god he went to 2 classes for Christ sake. Lmafo

[@jiujitsu94]

Lol

[@drewm4914]

I recently switched to a Gracie CTC after over a year at a competition only gym. I am having so much more fun and learning so much more.

[@blakew.2327]

I've only had two classes and I've absolutely falling in love with Gracie Jiu-Jitsu I've already turned my dining room into a training space

[@anthonyshinkle]

lol, how’d that go??

[@Larryfarnham-h9x]

I had to stop after 2 weeks of training... I have a fractured rib and a pulled lig in my knee. I didn't even know something was wrong until after class.. I have had to miss work and really can not afford to do that. I have full custody of my 12 yr old son and he has been training for 4-5 yrs. I started to have more in common with my son. I have 3 months paid in full but I am almost afraid of going back. I can afford to get injured again.

[@redondobeach2833]

It was a pleasure rolling with you Frank! Looking forward to seeing you again Saturday! - Brad

[@frankruiz1834]

Hey Brad! You and Rener are the main reasons why Saturday’s class was such a success for me. The way you guys simplified everything and were able to break it down step by step to make it easy to understand, then put it into practice on the mat was awesome! Thank you for your patience and all your help yesterday, it is greatly appreciated!! See you Saturday! 🤙

[@sagarcn1851]

I found this great MMA gym near me few months back. My BJJ coach has been very careful with all of us beginners, we did drills for many weeks , started with basic techniques and moved on to specific trainings with the techniques we learnt and only after 4 to 5 months of training , we had few rolling sessions. My ribs were paining after couple of rolling session and I started thinking whether I should continue .. but trust that has developed with the coach and the training partners made be stick to the sport.

[@mordorprc1]

Purple belt here. I honestly think it goes both ways. The day I started I was allowed to spar and got absolutely destroyed by a female purple belt. I remember coming out the class thinking, I’ve got no clue what the hell just happened but I gotta learn this. By the time I was about to get my blue belt, I had to move for work. I ended up joining a self defence type gym where white belts do classes separate from the others and there is no sparring. I was bored as hell and know that if that had been my introduction, I would have probably quit early on. So I think it can go both ways and you just got to adapt depending on who the new person is. When I roll with a new guy that has joined after a life of playing rugby (I live in the UK), I know I can go relatively strong as they’ll enjoy the physical challenge and will realise BJj works after they get controlled by someone less physically imposing. But if I roll with someone that’s a bit more insecure I will always go very slow, giving them tips and a lot of encouragement so they stick around. So I don’t think there is a right and wrong approach, you just gotta be flexible and adapt to the new person coming in rather than the other way around

[@clucero1986]

This was me. I’m getting smashed in the competition gym, but not due to confusion, it’s because they’re all better and more fit. I see small improvements every class and that keeps me going.

[@tjl4688]

There will always be those such as yourself who do better sparring from day 1. But for most people, they'll stick around longer and train longer through their life if they start slowly.

[@JohnTakatani]

Sparred day 1 at a gfteam school. Got smashed, but that inspired me and motivated me to improve. I was like, "this is really cool, I got to learn this".

[@FormidableOne]

As a 1 year in white belt, i feel like people going into jiujitsu should understand that theyre signing up to a combat sport - so getting your butt kicked is part and parcel, BUT, theres a but, I am completely against others who are experienced using the new guy as a complete grappling dummy and trying out their hardcore subs that works on nobody else.

[@dakotaspiegel8125]

Totally agree. You are going to get destroyed.

[@momentum8640]

That's great that he found a gym. Good for him.

[@krg8774]

I quit after three lessons, got very badly bruised ended up in hospital, if only there was more beginning white belt sessions think would of stuck with. 2 sessions were all level.

[@MansterBear]

The more I read these comments, the more thankful I am that I just happened find the gym I’m at. It’s not Gracie, but when you start you have to do a Fund 1 cycle. Basically a few months of basic techniques taught step by step, practiced with a partner for a while, then the next technique. No rolling. Once you finish a cycle, you can start Fund 2 class and competition class. Fund 2 is deeper explanation of more advanced techniques. Competition class is just rolling. You never have to do competition if you don’t want, and in fact you aren’t even allowed to until you have some basics and are less likely to get hurt or hurt someone else. It just happened to be the closest one to me. I’m so glad it wasn’t like the one you described. Maybe try another one in the area or just call and ask what the format of their classes are.

[@fritzstudios8571]

Hey Frank, I had a similar experience. I went to a crazy bjj gym from a so called Gracie lineage professor. He was nuts, throwing you on the ground as punishment when you didn't get something, I was scared going and really didn't enjoy it. Ended up quitting. Have now come back 3 years later at a non Gracie branded gym and are loving it. Really simple and fundamentals for beginners, no bullshit.

[@frankruiz1834]

Sounds horrible! The first gym I went to wasn’t that bad but I definitely felt lost and in complete survival mode at times and like I was drowning. Thought maybe I had bitten off more than I could chew. The instructor there was nice and knowledgeable but to me it just seemed geared towards more of the competition aspect and I’m not trying to compete. The class I took today at Gracie University was more applicable to a real life situation and resonated more with me. Jener and the other instructors I met today are AMAZING as was the instructional process!!! My youngest daughter also took her first class today and LOVED it. We’re both excited to continue our Jiu-Jitsu journey and are thankful and fortunate to be doing it at Gracie University.

[@orlandogivens4779]

That probably wasn't a real Bjj instructor as I have met people who say they are a part of the actual realities of bjj but are faking the reality because they know a little jujitsu or think they know, but they don't ...

[@mickeyfinn4636]

What was it called by chance? Was it an actual Gracie brand name gym? Im curious to know cause we have one in town called gracie barra i believe

[@alfredodelacruz1864]

@@mickeyfinn4636 Gracie Barra is the Carlos Gracie Jr lineage usually competition based jiujitsu. You gotta look for Helio Gracie side , Rorion, Rickson side its the practical self defense Gracie side. Which Gracie university is

[@triumphk9training687]

@@mickeyfinn4636 I go to a Gracie Barra school. I really like it there, but each to their own I suppose. It's been my experience that they do self defense stuff, but they also focus heavily on competition stuff too. We have a good mixture of men and women at my school. I'm not sure if that's common at all Gracie Barra schools. They definitely have a curriculum that they all follow just like Gracie University. They do a lot of what they call specific training for white belts. It's more like situational sparring. It's basically just where you practice something that you learned with a little bit of resistance. You don't do full on sparring until after you've been there for a while. I hope that helps.

[@d.mauldille1388]

I quut because it was all about comoetition but I wanted real life self defense, it wasnt worth the exhaustion and cost to me. Hard financial times also played a factor

[@stevenr2789]

Mr Gracie I have done bjj before. And the place I went to I don’t think really tried to ease first timers into the class. We were shown a move. Sometimes step by step. Sometimes I got it somewhat. And when I rolled with someone who knew far more than I did. I was lost and didn’t know what I was doing or going to do. I would love to get to know bjj. I just don’t have the money for it. I am really poor. I only fish and hunt mainly. I would be learning bjj for self defense and for fitness. Ty for ur videos

[@MansterBear]

I’m at a non Gracie gym, but it’s set up very beginner friendly like Gracie gyms seem to be. I started in November. You have to do a cycle in the Fundamentals 1 course first (basically an 8-10 week cycle of basic throws, escapes, sweeps, etc). He shows us the technique, we practice it with a partner for a while, he shows us another, repeat. We do the same set of stuff for 2-3 weeks then we get another set, usually which flows from the position you ended in with the previous technique. Eventually they loop back to where you’re in the starting position of the first technique, but on the other side of it. So then we can roll this whole flow thru and then do it again from the other side. It’s so awesome. Then you can go to the Fundamentals 2 class and the competition class if you want. Fund 2 is a more in depth teaching on a wider array of techniques. Competition class is all rolling. So if you don’t ever want to roll, no problem. But even if you want to, you have to have some basics down and have been coming consistently for a few months. It’s perfect for me and my situation (35 years old, family and job, probably won’t ever compete, and safety / not getting injured is a high priority).

[@mcdonnellbobcat]

For me GU has been a god send , I spent 2 years within a 4 period at 2 different and legitimate schools with world champion instructors with excellent students . The curriculum the Gracie system has laid out has given me the understanding of were to spend my efforts in a combat or competitive situation . Before this , it felt as I was scrambling without any true strategies . I just turned 58 and have been twice a week consistent for the last 4 plus years and loving it .

[@MrJetlagfever]

Are you guys looking to open up schools in Australia? First bjj class i did was straight into De la Riva guard and getting destroyed by blue belts.

[@iamme4494]

I quit because I hurt my neck and they didn’t really teach me the technique. They just did a demonstration and expected us to know it right away. Plus the instructor was not patient

[@Emotionlessxartist]

Instructor for me wasn’t patience at all he’s glover Tex ‘s bjj coach

[@ng7882]

That's why I haven't signed up. I just don't want to have a terrible first time experience.

[@ng7882]

I want to sign me and my daughter up so badly.

[@frankruiz1834]

@Oops Did I Do That, Thanks for checking! The journey continues and it’s been nothing short of awesome! I just recently earned my second stripe. I’ve leaned so much to this point and I’ve been completely injury free (aside from the typical incidental bumps, bruises, and muscle soreness). The other students I’ve met in class are so friendly and helpful and the instructors are AWESOME!!! I couldn’t be happier with the way things are going and I can’t speak highly enough about Gracie University! Thanks!

[@_D_A_V_E_]

It’s hard to find an inviting learning environment for hobbyists.

[@orlandogivens4779]

What do you mean hobbyist? Ok, Bjj and other combat fighting systems are supposed to be designed for self-esteem and self-defense... So how is it possible for anyone to be involved in doing it as a hobby as opposed to self-defense or in competition?

[@arturdobrzynski6531]

@@orlandogivens4779 plenty if not most gyms where bjj is a hobby. We don't make street fighters, got mma classes for that.

[@qwertyuiop2895]

Yes, most schools are competition oriented. If you are over 40 and just want to stay fit, they will let you know you're not welcome really (or you will always be dummy for competitors).

[@Novaargh]

Few months ago i visited the closest Dojo that trained BJJ because i wanted to up my ground game, after 14 years of JKD and Eskrima. After one class the ripped me appart, i had the pleasure of getting over the pain for an entire month. it hasen't detered me from wanting to try BJJ, i might go back to give them another try, because there aren't many schools in my neck of the woods. But just by watching any gracie on youtube roll with the family or students, you people training with them, don't know how lucky you are.

[@cw5312]

Rener "The Interrupter" Gracie

[@fatguyonthc]

It’s not for everyone 🤷‍♂️

[@todd2324]

The problem I see is that there are not a lot of gracie jiu-jitsu schools. And even within gracie jiu jitsu, you have different "styles" or methods of teaching self-defense (Relson gracie jiu jitsu, Royler Gracie jiu jitsu, etc). The best thing to do is to find a bjj school where you have good instructors and training partners to learn from. And if you are learning and getting better, stick with it. If not, move on.

[@rolotomase1440]

You'd think if you owned a school you want more students. More students, more money. Same experience for me. I stuck it out but I suffered for about 6 months. Almost 3 years later for me now so I guess I made it. But our place has new people sparing on day 1....and about 90% never come back.

[@Ayman_2575]

COME TO SRI LANKA AND TEACH OUR POLICE FORCE THIS FOR FUCK SAKE. My dad is a war veteran I can get you in

[@carolelafolle3800]

Same thing happened to me, i tried transitioning into bjj after 2-3 years of judo and in my first class manage to reinjure my previously dislocated shoulder at only the age of 16, needless to say i never went back

[@frankruiz1834]

That’s a bummer. I totally understand how you feel. Hopefully at some point you’ll give BJJ another chance. If you do I would highly recommend putting your trust in the people at the Gracie University.

[@SkemeKOS]

There is NO better teachers for BJJ than Rener and Ryon. They are light years ahead when it comes to teaching. And obviously, GJJ Certified Instructors will be way ahead also, being as they use the same exact teaching method.

[@dakotaspiegel8125]

Ever heard of John Danaher?

[@arturdobrzynski6531]

"Light years ahead" compared to whom? They're probably great, but the "lights ahead" bit makes me wonder how many gyms you have attended to be in the right to make such a statement.

[@kristopherdouglas4070]

@@dakotaspiegel8125if you watch Danahers instructional videos, he actually teaches in almost the same manner that all Gracie CTC instructors teach. They give context of why and when you would use the move, show a silent demo on how the move looks and then breaks its down into what, why, and how. Once I learned how Rener and Ryron taught, I started seeing it in other great instructors, including Danaher. They are all great!

[@tjl4688]

@@dakotaspiegel8125 Danaher is the best for sport and competition. Rener has actually acknowledged this in an interview with Paddy Pimblett. But Rener and Ryron are the best teachers for the entire art of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu itself.

[@juliakarczewski8875]

I quit because high heart rate sends me into a migraine

[@RoninxDD]

I used to have a similar experience, I soon found it wasn't the high heart rate that was inducing migraines but the lack of proper hydration (think electrolytes) and bright lighting in the gym

[@SethKBaldwin]

I definitely recommend going to a beginners only class or starting with 1:1 sessions with an instructor.

[@mattihelenius2]

Im scaaaared! I got my bjj in few days exicted but scared haHAA :)

[@frankruiz1834]

Totally understandable, I felt the same way before my first class. I hope it goes great for you! Good luck!

[@mattihelenius2]

@@frankruiz1834 thanks Frank !! :)

[@JJ-bv7fc]

Nothing to be scared of, no one is expecting anything from you on your first month let alone first day. Remember everyone had to start from somewhere

[@bravotoomuch4218]

Just chill, bro. Get with another white belt right of the bat and ask questions.

[@mattihelenius2]

@@bravotoomuch4218 Thanks mate

[@darkwolf860]

Love bjj but the school I attended didn't care about fundamentals or have any sort of curriculum. It was just, here's the high level stuff we're doing tonight. Had me rolling with people within 15 minutes of starting and that was obviously disaster waiting to happen. Plus the guys I was rolling with were obviously at a higher level and anytime I asked a question I was told, "just come to class". Great in theory, except every class was the same process of, here's a very advanced technique now roll.

[@nicks1169]

Sounds like my first bjj gym I tried, one of the more well known gyms with a lot of higher belts. I was the only white belt and there was no beginners class, just a drill my coach would make me do off in the corner and then sparring with purple an brown belts. I quit after 10-15 classes a year ago and thought it wasn’t for me. I found another new gym nearby 3 months ago and they have a great coach who cares and makes me want to show up. Been going 5x a week for 2 an a half months now

[@rl1800]

Sounds exactly like my first school. No structure to the lessons, no foundation with the basics. Sometimes they'd have a blue belt teaching the class. I remember them trying to teach me some advanced sweep that had about six different moves in order to work. Something a much higher belt might attempt in a tournament, but would get a beginner killed if I actually tried this in a street fight. Rolling was like thunderdome. I would do 7 or 8 minute rolls with blue and purple belts. Just flailing away, trying to not get tapped. No technique. Mats were filthy too. After I got my first ear infection, I threw in the towel and quit.

[@darkwolf860]

@@rl1800 sad how similar that sounds. I'm hoping to find another gym but there's not many near me

[@ForzaTerra89]

I’m a judo player and joined a BJJ recently just once a week and even doing the fundamental classes they show me techniques I thought I knew in judo but broke it down in a more methodical way that was easier to understand

[@neonbelly9491]

theres a black belt judo guy in my gym and i love picking his brain. hes purple in bjj and tells me from time to time that judo doesn't carry over to bjj like you think it would.

[@ForzaTerra89]

@@neonbelly9491 more so on the ground it’s more rushed and less methodical. You can’t take your time in judo the same way without a penalty. In standing I’ve definitely had to modify a few things but it’s been a huge advantage as a whole. The BJJ standing, especially in the gi I’ve encountered so far, has been very rushed and very telegraphed. Not much setting up, very basic and tense. I’ve surprised how little some of the higher belts seem to know on their feet but the guard pull and the postures do change things. But that’s why we have different sports and different focus

[@michaelchen3208]

I started bjj @age 62, now almost 3 years of training; with no problems. All our professors are nice and caring. One of the recent new comer showed up in the class @ age 67. He loved the art of bjj. Just hanging out, tell the coach your goal, eventually will get what ever goal you pursue. 54 years old is still young to start😊

[@frankruiz1834]

That’s awesome! I definitely plan on continuing BJJ for as long as I physically can. I did mention to them that originally my main goal/objective with BJJ was to increase my flexibility, core strength and stamina for surfing and I’m also discovering that it offers so much more than that. While 54 is a little late to be a rookie… better late than never! 🤙

[@brucekai7462]

I've had this experience, and I think a lot of teachers don't realize the importance of answering questions and explaining things that they themselves might think unimportant. In my first lesson I had to roll with higher belts, obviously being a total noob I asked "Why am I rolling and what am I doing... and WTF is "rolling" lol?? If I don't know any techniques, don't know how to escape, I'm literally doing what??? What seems obvious to teachers and long time practitioners often time isn't to beginners at all and I think thats the difference between a good school and a shit one. Every video I've ever seen of Rener he explains things in such a digestible way, it gives you confidence that you're actually soaking in what he's saying.

[@luisv8887]

lol beginners be like what is escaping, passes, or sweeps? But lots of schools don't teach that...

[@khanage360]

Constituency , persistent and patience

[@Broker205]

Hold up. I just turned 51 in November and have wanted to try BJJ for years. Well, my wife and I have two daughters, ages 11 and 7. Our 11 year old has endured severe bullying for years to the point that she’s had thoughts of harming herself. We have her in counseling now, but I want them both to attend bully proof. I thought it would be a good idea to jump in myself, but I’m SERIOUSLY out of shape and thought that I was too old. You mean to tell me that this gentleman, who has a couple of years on me is just starting?? I’m floored! I’m more concerned about my girls, but I might have to reconsider for myself now.

[@DMtheDM93]

Man quoting Mr. Miyagi and everything

[@bujindork]

Any gym that throws a 2 day white belt into a full roll is questionable. I didnt full roll for almost 3 months but did alot of situational sparring(passing guard, escaping side control/mount/back, holding side control/mount and back take). Then when I first started sparring it was for specific goals(like trying to take the back,,going only for a kimura). All that smoothed the transistion to full rolls.

[@southpoundham]

This was like the first time I bought dark souls 3. Now I've beaten the game 23 times. Jiujitsu is the same thing, keep coming at em, learn as much as possible, use KZbin to guide you through your journey, and you'll keep finding success

[@timmyjon5032]

BJJ looks so fascinating but it seems like playing with fire. Honestly would rather get hit in boxing/kickboxing sparring than tear ligaments...

[@wiladorm2439]

I quit BJJ over 20 years ago. The school was amazing at first then the lead instructor got a injured and the other instructors just smashed the students. I’m think of starting BJJ again. Unfortunately there are no Gracie BJJ schools in my area.

[@CheesybiscuitStudios]

My experience with BJJ has been great so far. Whether it was an MMA class, rolling during a short Krav Maga course or a class at my local Renzo Gracie gym. What I'm struggling with right now is finances and clearing up my schedule so I can find the time to train. That's all manageble. I'm going to sign up ASAP and after my introduction lesson last year I felt like not only could I train in a safe environment but I also felt like my other students learned from me that day.

[@qazmko22]

it's really an experience training

[@josephjennings5945]

I’m going through something similar now, where I have two metal plates in my arm that I deal with chronic inflammation and pain from. I can only deal with about a month of live rolling before having to run and get a cortisol shot for the inflammation. I go to a great school, but it is very sink or swim when it comes to live rolling I’m not a wuss, I’m 6 ft 220 lbs, but getting old is a real thing and the durability of youth shouldn’t be a prerequisite to learning self defense.

[@Ktm-jas]

I quit because the group was to clicky and didn’t really deal welcome. Gracie Barra Yeovil uk.

[@PotatoMASHjack]

Was doing bij for a few months enjoyed it allot but it was like being thrown into the ocean nothing was explained to me.. it took mee 3 lessons to understand what that weird “hip escape” movement was during the warm up. Some where in the 5 lesson I just asked one of my sparing partners “teach me some thing I can do” he showed me the Ezekiel choke. Also the school was only focused on training for tournaments not the self defense aspect. And in the end a new student that had an mma background tor my rotator cuff to shreds during my first sparring session with him. Nobody told him to keep it playful.

[@systematic_jiujitsu]

The drowning attracts people to it and puts others off. Everyone’s different and the persona needs to fit a specific class.

[@bobbydabutcha]

One day I hope to start up a Jiu Jitsu school tailored to the smaller, weaker and less athletic. This is coming from someone that was a White belt for nearly four years getting the snot beat out of them during every roll. Everything I learned, I earned through blood, sweat and tears. It does not have to be that way, not any longer.

[@krg8774]

Went too my first school was there three sessions had bad experience my new school been there three weeks 12 sessions loving it.

[@markwimmer3647]

This is exactly my experience glad I found GJJ

[@muriaticfpv2328]

The fact is most people in most places only have access to the more intense or throw at the wolves schools. Besides a physiotherapist on speed dial, can you give some recommendations on how to stick with it?

[@phillipd.paynephd.8170]

I quit because i almost died on the floor in front of everyone during warmups trying to do skrimps or shrimps or whatever you call those evil little exercises.

[@neonbelly9491]

You gassed out doing shrimps? ... lol

[@phillipd.paynephd.8170]

@@neonbelly9491 f any exercise named after seafood

[@rebelfilmz4714]

Sparring at the end of class is typical in Bjj sport gyms. I love it. But I understand that it can be rough for new students. I stayed with it tho. Eventually that drownings feeling went away. I think with Gracie University they’re geared toward self defense so the class it different from sport academies. Both have their place. I happy you enjoyed the class. Thank you to the whole Gracie family. Sport and self defense.

[@rodfarva5107]

Ny coaches can't stop stressing to us how important it is to workout not just to be strong for ju jitsu but so ur body is strong enough to handle the intense training of each ju jitsu class u take

[@nicks1169]

That’s nice about the online stuff. Idk if I’d use it a lot but a nice option

[@BigJTM]

Curriculum is key.

[@koejoe]

To the point ! 💯

[@Sirena_Edonismo]

I was very fortunate to have chosen Gracie BJJ in Largo, Florida as my first and only school. Professor Ben and Coach Jen have put together an amazing family atmosphere that encourages learning and is completely supportive not only from the instructors, but also from every one of the students. Everyone sincerely tries to help each other and make the process fun. In exactly 1 month (2/21) I will be 66 yrs. old so I am one of the older students in the classes, but that has never been an issue. I am treated equally and really love the training. I just received my 2nd combatives stripe and look forward to getting better at the fundamentals so I can roll and spar with the more advanced students. I really believe that everyone can get something out of BJJ. I think everyone should try the Gracie method and participate at some level. It is awesome to see children and entire families involved in the different programs and getting the benefits of Gracie BJJ. I wish I would have know about this sooner, but glad that I finally discovered it. Thanks for putting together such an awesome program. Paul

[@ivandrago1133]

You will have a new student joining. She is the young woman that was attacked in the gym in a video that went viral.

[@colinkelly279]

51 years old and 5 classes in and I love it. Following the Gracie U Program by beginning with Combatives is absolutely perfect to keep me rolling for years to come. The whole environment is suited perfectly for me and encourages me to keep on keepin on. I appreciate this program. That type of immersive program may be what some look for, and I can respect that, but this is perfect. I am Appreciative of the Opportunity.

[@frankruiz1834]

I completely agree. All due respect to those that prefer the BJJ gyms that are geared more towards competing but the Gracie Combatives program is exactly what I’m looking for and I’m grateful to have found it. Good luck to you on your BJJ journey!

[@dcavanaugh310]

I had the same issue going to a local school. I would like to learn bjj for my job, unfortunately there are no Gracie gyms around me.

[@luisv8887]

look for a gracie garage maybe there is one near you.

[@TheTraubenstein]

It's interesting. The person you roll with should also be cognizant of your experience and roll appropriately. That's not to say where I roll, the spazzing of senior students doesn't happen. But it shouldn't. When a first day person, or even an inexperienced or younger person rolls with me, I like to feel out the level and work on fundamentals vs smashing. I feel the smash culture in a lot of BJJ gyms ruins it for many.

[@TheTraubenstein]

And, with that, rolling with a less experienced person is a great way to work on your fundamentals in a safe manner.

[@davidcrawford8583]

Judo Jujutsu player for 26 years, trained BJJ for 2, start on the knees or in guard every time. I hated it. Modern BJJ is nothing like old GJJ JJJ. Wish we had more GJJ and something like Valante Brothers gyms where I live in England.

[@bananas5466]

I'm new at bjj I've only gone for a couple weeks now. I am completely lost, I started rolling with teammates the first day. The warm ups change throughout the week and its brutal but everyone there is amazing and I absolutely love it

[@bananas5466]

Everyone is very nice and welcoming at my gym. A very proud member of the JG Academy

[@IronSharpensIron127]

Wish I could get to y'all's class's

[@ronaldinho5860]

I tell you what Rener is one hell of a salesman, he knows exactly what type of person to bring on and when to bring them on. I wonder as well if there could be a follow up with these people in 1 year to see if they are still at GU.

[@frankruiz1834]

That’s a good idea! I’ll mention it to to him. I still see some of the students he’s done these videos with in my classes as well as the upper level classes.

[@ripsdagod]

Jiu jitsu is free.

[@Pezhman101]

Points made in this video are spot on! After 13 months BJJ as white belt with four strips now, my second class a higher belt armed bar me and it was so painful as I had no idea what was happening to me! Needles to say I could afford to get hurt so I took private lessons $$$$ understanding the fundamentals as I attended all fundamentals class with my good friend who was technical focus and my age too. I wound get anxious before class not knowing if my buddy was not coming as I did not like getting pair with some young kid who ultimate goal was smashing his sparing! Get solid fundamental training and spend the money on private lessons with a good coach or Professor who truly understands leverage and technique. 🤞

[@yadielenielbellecolon982]

😍💞

[@arturdobrzynski6531]

If "better mobility and fitness" are your main goals than I can name a hundred better sports and activities than bjj. If anything one has to work on their mobility and fitness elsewhere. Simple. The better you are at bjj the less energy and muscles one uses. You don't want injuries in bjj class, do mobility and strengthening exercises in your free time.

[@frankruiz1834]

Hey Artur! I gladly welcome a list of your top 10 or 15 sports or activities to improve my mobility and fitness. Side note… my chiropractor suggests I avoid distance running and activities that require jumping (basketball, volleyball, etc.). Currently I surf 3-4 days a week and I try to complement that by doing a little core work once a week that consists of push-ups and a little abdominal work. Just to keep it fun I even mix in some skateboarding. At 6’3” 198lbs and 54 years old I’m not in bad shape. I have quite a few friends that I surf with that have told me that jiu-jitsu has helped them improve their flexibility and core strength and their surfing has benefited from it. Any suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated. Thanks! 🤙

[@arturdobrzynski6531]

@@frankruiz1834 hi, I am currently doing mobility 2.0 7 month program by Calimove to work on my mobility. Doing just yoga and stretching was not enough to keep my back pain away while working on increased mobility in my hips area (Have back problems from sea cliff jumping). Calisthenics can help, but not the flashy bits, just ground up work on increasing mobility and stregth in joints. Bjj can be demanding and punish hard when you're put in a bad position. In my 14 years of on and off bjj practice I've seen a lot healthy people come and go because of the injuries. I don't roll harx like I used to when I was younger, so I can still enjoy the sport. From my experience it's mobility issues that were behind many injuries of the people I trained with. Other activitiesthat can help with mobility and strength, trx, kettlebells (but only if you can afford being introduced to kb with a certified trainer. Kettlebells are simple, but it takes a lot of time and risk to get yourself to do it safe). Right now I gave up on all the strength sports and focus on mobility. Works for me better on the mats than strength ever could. Ps: When I said "hundreds of other sports" I obviously exaggerated :)

[@frankruiz1834]

Hey Artur, Thanks for your response and also for your suggestions, I really appreciate it. I’ve definitely lost some mobility, flexibility and strength over the years and while I’m still pretty active, at my age it’s inevitable. I’ll definitely look into the Calimove program. I did hear that kettlebell training is very helpful but like you said, highly recommend that you start with a certified trainer in that area. It’s funny to think that this all started because I was just trying to gain back some of the flexibility and strength I’ve lost over the years because it felt like it was affecting my surfing. Ha ha! Thanks again, Frank

[@alp3274]

It's like Rener is talking straight to me in these videos.

[@frankruiz1834]

If you’re able to, I highly recommend giving Rener and Gracie University a chance.

[@peteranelson]

Translation: different people try BJJ for different reasons. And different people learn better different ways. I like Rener et al but the constant marketing is a drag and there are really good instructors outside of their organization too.

[@MansterBear]

Started BJJ in November at age 35. I wanted to do Gracie but the closest one is over an hour away. I did find a great school about 20 min away and am loving it. I’m in the fundamentals 1 class, which is technique and drilling. A couple throws, a couple “ground game” techniques (escapes, sweeps, etc). He shows us step by step each one, we practice it with partners for a while, then on to the next one. After you’ve completed a cycle or 2 of Fund 1 (a few months) you can go to Fund 2, more in-depth drilling on techniques, and the “competition class” which is basically just rolling with some instructions if needed. It’s perfect for me bc I had 2 back surgeries about 10 years ago and was nervous to start, and especially nervous to roll. I’ve been able to just do the Fund 1 class, my back has held up fine. In the next couple months I plan on adding a third practice each week by going to a fund 2 class and hopefully my back will tolerate some full rolling. But even if it doesn’t, I absolutely love BJJ and want to do it for as long as my body will allow. And I’ve actually found my back has felt better since I started. My core is stronger, I’m using much more flexibility and I just feel “loser” even in everyday life. I wish I would have started sooner. For the new year, I also stopped drinking pop and eating somewhat healthier (basically normal homemade food instead of Casey’s pizza and Reese’s cups). Not even a “diet”. I’m down 10 lbs the last couple weeks. 15 to go to be back to my college/in shape weight. Sorry for the novel but I’m so glad I started BJJ. If you’re thinking about it, and your body can handle it, you have to try it.

[@Owl-of-Minerva]

I quit when a Gracie Academy brown belt student (today is a black belt) broke the most important rule. He didn't respect the tap. He squeezed my torso so hard because he couldn't control me any other way. He caused serious internal bleeding. Thought about suing since all classes are recorded, but what good would that have done? My point? Mat bullies are everywhere. I made the terrible mistake of walking away from this wonderful school all because one of their best students was a complete psycho that seriously injured me. If Rener or Ryron ever want to know I'd tell them in person, or thru private message so as not to put the guy on blast, but I doubt they will reach out to me. Why would they? He's a current paying customer while I am not. I think Helio is incredibly proud of Ryron and Rener. They're definitely carrying that warrior spirit we all admire. I wish them continued success for all they've sacrificed and their dedication to JiuJitsu. We are all blessed who share the mats with them, which only made my injury hurt so much more, for I know very well what I am missing out on.

[@utubepunk]

Granting your story is true, I recommend calling the Academy & talking to someone in charge. It's possible your comment here will be buried & they could miss it. You essentially asked why would they (Rener & Ryron) care. They care because they have an instructor who is failing & putting students at risk. It needs to be brought to their attention & addressed, IMO.

[@Owl-of-Minerva]

@utubepunk I speak the truth, or I do not speak at all. He is not an instructor. That would make a difference, and in that scenario, I would bring it to their attention. Thank you for the reply.

[@2446686]

Clearly, "BJJ" is going in the same direction we watched judo, taekwondo and wushu go. A martial art that is becoming a competitive sport that is dominated by young, athletic males.

[@arturdobrzynski6531]

Nah, not true at all. If anything I see more and more family oriented and chilled bjj gyms around. When I started many years ago it was very competitive, testosterone driven environment, where you either swim or sink, as presented in this video. Now, I can visit a gym and have relaxed rolls with whomever of I want to or ramp up the speed also if I want. If anything , I am the first person new guys can safely roll with, as to be introduced to bjj in a safe and friendly manner. Chill :)

[@qwertyuiop2895]

@@arturdobrzynski6531 Not true. Most gyms are competition oriented (but they try to hide it for newbies). Yes, hey, hi, hello, you are welcome (but nor really in the long run, you will discover that).

[@LarsNorthman]

Literally, CTCs train self-defense first in a separate class than the Jiu-jitsu vs Jiu-jitsu class. Learn the basics aka Combatives and then you enter the Master cycle that is jiu-jitsu vs jiujitsu. No reason to throw people to the wolves. Archaic way of thinking.

[@jaii9301]

I am so disappointed. I signed up for the January 14th 2023 class with NO CONTACT OR HELP! Here in Columbia sc, in Lexington, SC...The day before, I looked for emails, text message and even a call. Only to get nothing!

[@kaumghtetnaing456]

I Like Jiu Jitsu I am from Myanmar I don't konw how to join jiu jitsu

[@hellokittybebop]

Learn

[@FormidableOne]

Watch moves on youtube and do the moves with a group of your friends - safely.

[@elliottjames671]

STUDY NATURAL LAW WITH MARK PASSIO.

[@harrpp2220]

Gracie is the problem here

[@ogmale7280]

What, in da fugg, are you talking about ?

[@arturdobrzynski6531]

A lot of just and unjust complaining in the comment section.

[@ogmale7280]

So, like any other comment section.

[@Armin-py6tz]

I quit bjj because it did not work in a street fight

[@ogmale7280]

So you are at least a blue belt and someone kicked your ass in a street fight ?

[@FormidableOne]

What if someone takes you down and mounts?

[@plalelal]

Explain please.

[@ogmale7280]

Yes. I’d like an explanation of his comment as well.

[@ctabjjdanny6261]

Mindset martial arts in Hayward California we love jiu jitsu and love making the experience fun. One way we do that is we have a such a family vibe where everyone gets along with everyone there are no bullies in our gym the only hard rolls you will have are the ones u agree to having. Other than that we gauge everyone’s pace or learning and we roll towards those check marks. Even with new students we are teaching as we roll to show what to do or not to do as we are rolling with someone new!

[@calei7963]

GL Frank

[@frankruiz1834]

Thanks!

[@oopsdididothat7727]

@@frankruiz1834 how are you doing so far? Any update with? (i.e. how many stripes do you have so far) all the best in your journey!

[@frankruiz1834]

Thanks for checking! The journey continues and it’s been nothing short of awesome! I just recently earned my second stripe. I’ve leaned so much to this point and I’ve been completely injury free (aside from the typical incidental bumps, bruises, and muscle soreness). The other students I’ve met in class are so friendly and helpful and the instructors are AWESOME!!! I couldn’t be happier with the way things are going and I can’t speak highly enough about Gracie University! Thanks!