New Student Guide

Your First
Day
On The Mat

Walking into a jiu-jitsu gym for the first time can feel intimidating. We want to change that. Here is exactly what happens, step by step.

Book Your Free Class Walk me through it ↓
You don't need to
✓
Be in shape
✓
Have any experience
✓
Know any techniques
✓
Have a uniform yet
✓
Have anything to prove
Step by Step

From Parking Lot
to First Roll

Here is everything that happens on your first visit — no surprises, no pressure, no ego.

A note from Professor Wanly

Every single person on our mats was a beginner once — including me. The hardest part is showing up. Once you walk through that door, we take care of the rest. You will be welcomed, you will be guided, and you will leave feeling better than when you arrived. That is a promise.

01
Before You Arrive
Come As You Are

Wear comfortable athletic clothes — shorts, a t-shirt, leggings, whatever you move well in. No uniform needed for your first class. We have loaner gi's that you can borrow for the class. Bring water and arrive 10–15 minutes early so you have time to meet us before class starts. Before stepping on the mat, every new student signs a quick waiver so we have the right emergency and safety information on file. That's truly all you need.

📍 We're at 1050 SW Baseline St, Suite A7, Hillsboro, OR. Parking is available directly in front of the building.
02
When You Walk In
You'll Be Greeted, Not Evaluated

Walk in, say hello. One of our instructors or a senior student will greet you immediately. We'll show you around the academy, point out the changing rooms, where to leave your shoes, help you complete your waiver, and answer any questions you have. There is no audition here — just a warm welcome.

🩴 Important: shoes stay off the mat. We'll show you where to leave them. Bring flip-flops or slides to wear any time you step off the mat — to the bathroom, water fountain, etc.
03
The First 15 Minutes
Warm-Up Together

Every class begins with a group warm-up — movement drills, shrimping, hip escapes, and stretching. These are the building blocks of jiu-jitsu movement. You will not know what you're doing. That is completely normal. Just follow along at your own pace. Nobody is watching you to judge — everyone is focused on their own movement.

04
The Main Instruction
Technique Time

Professor Wanly or Coach Nate will demonstrate a technique — usually 2 to 3 moves that connect together. You'll then pair up with a partner — we'll pair you, don't worry — and practice those movements at a slow, cooperative pace. Your partner will be patient. This is where most of the class time is spent, and it's where real learning happens.

💡 You won't remember everything. You're not supposed to. Just focus on the one thing the instructor emphasizes most — that's enough for day one.
05
End of Class
Sparring — Optional for Beginners

At the end of class, experienced students will spar. This is called rolling. As a first-time student, you are never required to roll. You can watch, ask questions, or if you feel ready and comfortable, you can roll lightly with a trusted partner. We will guide you either way. There is zero pressure.

06
After Class
The Best Part

We bow off the mat, shake hands, and talk. This is where the community lives — post-class conversation, questions answered, friendships started. We will check in with you personally, see how you felt, and answer anything on your mind. There's no hard sell. Just a real conversation about whether jiu-jitsu is right for you.

🤝 Most people describe their first class as “nothing like what I expected — in the best way.” We think you'll feel the same.
Gear Guide

What To Wear

Your first class — just athletic clothes. Once you enroll, here's what each program requires.

Traditional · Gi
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi
  • BJJ Gi/Kimono — white, blue or black recommended for beginners. Brands like Fuji, Tatami, Elite, or Kingz are great starting points.
  • Rashguard or compression shirt worn under the jacket to reduce friction and protect skin.
  • Compression shorts spats or leggings worn under Gi pants for comfort and coverage. No zippers or metal hardware.
  • Mouthguard optional for live sparring rounds.
  • Trimmed fingernails and toenails — non-negotiable mat etiquette.
  • Slides, flip-flops, or Crocs to wear any time you step off the mat.
Submission Grappling · No-Gi
No-Gi / Submission Grappling
  • Rashguard — short or long sleeve, fitted, and quick-drying.
  • Board shorts, grappling shorts or leggings for women — no metal hardware and no pockets that can snag fingers.
  • Compression spats optional under shorts — great for mat burn protection and warmth.
  • Mouthguard optional for sparring rounds.
  • Ear guards optional but recommended to help prevent cauliflower ear over time.
  • Slides, flip-flops, or Crocs — same rule, feet on mat only.
How Booking Works

Reserve Your Spot
In Under A Minute

Click the button, pick a class, and we’ll know to expect you. No pressure, no commitment, no sales pitch.

Book Your Free Trial Class

01

Pick A Class

Choose a beginner-friendly class time that works for your schedule.

02

Show Up Early

Arrive 10–15 minutes early so we can welcome you, show you around, and answer questions.

03

Train For Free

Experience the academy, meet the community, and decide whether the mats feel right for you.

Member App

Stay Connected After You Book

After booking or joining, download the BJJLINK app to stay connected with Via Jiu Jitsu. View class information, receive updates, and track your training in one place.

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Common Questions

We've Heard
It All

Do I need to be in shape before starting? +
No. Jiu-jitsu is how you get in shape — not a reward for already being there. Professor Wanly has trained people of every fitness level. You will be challenged at your own pace and improve every single week you show up.
Is it safe? Will I get hurt? +
Our training culture prioritizes safety above all else. We have a strict no-ego policy on the mats. Sparring is cooperative, especially for beginners. The most common “injury” in your first month is sore muscles from movements you've never done — which is just your body adapting.
I'm not athletic. Is this still for me? +
Especially for you. Jiu-jitsu is built on leverage and technique — not size, strength, or athleticism. A smaller person with good technique can control a larger person who does not yet understand the positions. That's the whole point of learning the art.
Will I have to spar on my first day? +
Never. Sparring is completely optional for new students. You can watch, ask questions, or participate lightly if you feel ready. We will never push you into something you're not comfortable with. When the time comes, we'll walk you through it.
Do I need to sign a waiver? +
Yes. Every student signs a standard training waiver before participating. It only takes a minute, and we’ll walk you through it when you arrive — or you can fill it out ahead of time here.
Is Via Jiu Jitsu welcoming to women? +
Absolutely. We actively cultivate a respectful, inclusive training environment. We have female students at all levels and take any issues of respect or safety extremely seriously. Every student trains with dignity — full stop.
How often should I train to improve? +
Two to three times per week is the sweet spot for most beginners — enough to build consistency and muscle memory without burning out or getting overly sore. As you adapt, you can increase from there. Consistency beats intensity every time.
How long does it take to get a blue belt? +
Often, it takes a few years of consistent training, but every student is different. The belt is a byproduct of growth, not a goal to chase. Students who show up consistently and focus on learning always progress.
What if I can't afford it right now? +
Talk to us. We believe jiu-jitsu should be accessible, and we're a new academy invested in building a strong community. Reach out directly — we'll have an honest conversation about options.

The Only Wrong Move
Is Not Showing Up

Your first class is free. No commitment, no pressure. Just come see what the mat feels like.

Reserve Your Free Class →