YOUR FIRST
DAY ON
THE MAT
No fluff. No gatekeeping. Just straight answers on gear, technique, and what to actually expect when you walk through that gym door for the first time.
Worldwide
Starter Kit
Black Belt
Since 2015
WE ACTUALLY USE
EVERYTHING YOU
NEED TO KNOW FIRST
Written by someone who's been a white belt, survived, and has the mat burns to prove it.
The Ultimate White Belt Survival Guide
Everything you need to know before, during, and after your first class. Position hierarchy, the stripe system, injury prevention, a full glossary, and what your first year actually looks like.
Best BJJ Gi for Beginners in 2026
Size, weight, weave — here's what actually matters when buying your first gi.
3 Positions Every White Belt Must Drill
Mount escape, guard retention, and the bridge. Own these three and you'll survive.
Why Everyone Taps Out — And Why That's OK
The tap is a tool, not a failure. Here's how to rewire that instinct fast.
Gi vs No-Gi: What Should You Start With?
It's the first question every beginner asks. The answer depends on why you're training.
What to Wear to Your First BJJ Class
What to put on, what to bring, and what to leave in the car before you walk into your first class.
What to Pack in Your BJJ Gym Bag
The checklist I wish I had as a white belt: every-class essentials, and the stuff to add later.
How Many Times a Week Should You Train?
A realistic answer for people with jobs, families, and bodies that need time to recover.
Do You Need Ear Guards for BJJ?
What cauliflower ear actually is, the early warning signs, and when headgear is worth it.
How to Wash a BJJ Gi the Right Way
Cold water, no dryer, and the vinegar trick for a gi that still stinks after washing.
EXPLAINED