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How to Find a Good Jiu-Jitsu Gym

Updated: Jun 25

The right gym can make all the difference in your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) journey. So, we’re here to guide you—whether you are starting to get interested in BJJ or are already a practitioner seeking a new gym. Here are our tips on how to find a good Jiu-Jitsu gym in Australia—a place to support your growth and keep you safe.


1. Start with Searching for Jiu-Jitsu Gyms Nearby

Have you typed the search phrase, ‘Jiu-Jitsu gyms near me’ on Google? That’s a good first step. Ideally, you want a gym close to your home or workplace. That way, you can attend Jiu-Jitsu classes regularly without commuting for hours. Plus, attending a gym nearby helps you be more consistent with your training schedule.


2. Be Extra Observant When Checking Facilities

The best BJJ gyms in Sydney or any other location have clean and well-maintained facilities. First, look at the mat area. See if there are enough mats and whether they are in good condition and sanitised. Clean mats are undoubtedly essential to prevent injuries and infections. Check out the changing areas, too. Planning to train before or after work? Look for a gym with squeaky-clean showers and organised lockers.


Moreover, look around and see whether the gym offers extra training tools like weight machines and racks. These can help boost your overall training experience.


3. Assess the Gym’s Safety and Hygiene

High levels of safety and hygiene are non-negotiable in a BJJ gym. Ask whether the gym has a well-stocked first aid kit, readily available ice packs and a strict cleaning protocol for mats and facilities to prevent infections. Observe how the students train, too. If you notice unsafe practices, such as students rolling too aggressively or without proper supervision, it’s likely a red flag. Also, ensure the gym prioritises safety by encouraging students to tap early and respect their training partners. 


4. Evaluate the Instructors

The quality of instruction is critical for your development in BJJ. Here are some tips to assess the instructors:

  • Check Credentials and Experience: Research the instructors’ backgrounds, including their rank, competition experience, and teaching credentials. You can also ask about their BJJ belt lineage. An unclear or unverifiable instructor’s lineage raises questions about their qualifications and the legitimacy of the techniques being taught.

  • Ask About Their Teaching Style: Attend a class or two to observe the instructors’ teaching style. Do they explain and demonstrate Jiu-Jitsu techniques? Are they approachable and willing to answer questions?

  • Get Student Feedback: Don’t hesitate to talk to current students about their experiences. Positive feedback from students is a good indicator of a quality instructor.


5. Assess the Gym Culture

Here’s another tip on how to find a good BJJ gym: assess its culture. A Jiu-Jitsu gym’s culture and atmosphere can impact your training experience. So, be sure to look for the following:

  • Welcoming Environment: A good gym should make you feel welcomed and comfortable from the moment you walk in. Instructors and staff should greet you and introduce themselves.

  • Respect and Camaraderie: Training partners should treat each other with respect. A sense of camaraderie and mutual support is essential for a positive training environment.

  • Inclusiveness: If the gym discourages cross-training or is unwelcoming to visitors from other gyms, it could indicate a closed-off and potentially toxic environment. For instance, the best BJJ gyms in Sydney are inclusive and welcoming to people of all backgrounds, ages, and skill levels. 



6. Consider the Class Schedule

Make sure the gym offers classes that fit your schedule. Look for gyms with flexible timings, including morning, evening, and weekend classes. This flexibility allows you to train consistently, regardless of work or personal commitments.


7. Evaluate the Cost and Membership Options

Cost is, of course, important when choosing a BJJ gym in Sydney or any other major city. Here are some things to consider:

  • Membership Fees: Compare the membership fees of different gyms in the area. Some Jiu-Jitsu gyms offer monthly memberships, while others may require an upfront payment for a longer period.

  • Discounts and Offers: Look for gyms that offer discounts for signing up multiple family members or paying in advance.

  • Value for Money: Ensure the gym provides good value for the fees charged. Sometimes, paying a bit more for a quality gym is worth it.

8. Ask for Trial Classes

Want another way to find a good Jiu-Jitsu gym? Ask for trial BJJ classes. 

Many of the best Jiu-Jitsu gyms in Sydney and other major locations offer free trial classes. Take advantage of these to get a feel for the gym’s environment, instruction quality, and overall vibe. With this firsthand experience, you can make an informed decision before signing up for a Beginner, Advanced or No-Gi Ji-Jitsu program


9. Research Online Reviews

Go the extra mile and dig deep online. Read reviews from others who have trained at different gyms in your area. Websites like Reddit and local BJJ forums can provide valuable insights and recommendations. 


While researching, some red flags you should watch out for include mandatory gear purchases. If the gym requires you to purchase and wear only its branded gear, it might be more focused on profit than on providing a good training environment. You should also be wary of gyms that push you into long-term contracts without offering flexibility. If you feel pressured to sign a long-term contract after just one class, it’s a red flag. A good Jiu-Jitsu gym will give you time to decide and may offer trial periods or month-to-month memberships. One more thing: questionable promotion practices. If the gym guarantees belt promotions based on a set timeline or number of classes attended, it undermines the merit-based progression fundamental to BJJ.


10. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. If a gym feels right and meets your needs, it’s likely a good fit. Sign up for a free trial to see if this Jiu-Jitsu gym matches your training needs. Conversely, if something feels off about the gym, it probably is, so keep looking. 


Summing It Up

Finding the right Jiu-Jitsu gym is a personal journey; what works for one person may not work for another. Consider the factors and tips above, and you’ll be well on your way to finding a gym that helps you grow and thrive in your BJJ journey. 

Looking for one of the best Jiu-Jitsu gyms in Zetland, Sydney? Join us here! Feel free to attend one of our free trial classes or simply drop by our gym to check it out. 


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