white belt survival guide: things i wish someone told me before my first class

just got my second stripe on my white belt and looking back theres SO much i wish i knew on day one. writing this for anyone lurking who is thinking about starting but is nervous.

before your first class:

• you dont need a gi yet. most gyms will lend you one or let you roll in shorts and a rash guard for your first few classes
• trim your fingernails and toenails. this is not optional. you WILL scratch someone and thats a bad first impression
• shower before class. yes before. nobody wants to roll with someone who smells like their day
• eat something light 2 hours before. not 30 minutes before. trust me on this

your first month:

• you will be completely lost. this is normal. everyone was lost. the black belt who just submitted 4 people in a row was once exactly where you are
• focus on survival not submissions. if you can last a round without getting tapped, thats a WIN at white belt
• learn to frame and create space. this is more important than any submission right now
• tap early tap often. ego injuries heal. torn ligaments dont
• breathe. you are holding your breath and thats why you gas out in 2 minutes

things nobody tells you:

• you will get addicted around month 3-4. it just clicks one day
• you will get injured. probably something minor. ribs, fingers, toes. its a contact sport
• the culture shock of a stranger trying to choke you wears off faster than you think
• higher belts are not trying to hurt you. they are flowing and practicing. you are the one spazzing
• jiu jitsu laundry is a part time job. wash your gi after EVERY class

the best advice i ever got: your only job as a white belt is to keep showing up. thats literally it. the techniques will come. the timing will come. just dont quit.

DFW has some of the best BJJ instruction in the country. there is literally no excuse.