BEGINNER'S GUIDE

Welcome to Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy SLC, where every
journey begins with one step onto the mat.
If you’re thinking about starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you’ve
already conquered the hardest part, making the decision to show up.
The rest, we’ll guide you through.

FAQ's for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Class

What You’ll Call the Instructor

In our Academy, respect and tradition run deep. You’ll often hear instructors referred to as Professor (for black belts) or Coach. First names are fine once you know them, but when in doubt, “Coach” or “Professor” is always appropriate in the Renzo Gracie family.

How to Choose Your Gi

If you join a Gi class, you’ll need the right uniform.
We have high-quality Renzo Gracie Gis at the academy for $100: durable, comfortable, and competition-ready.
If you choose to wear your own Gi, you will need a Renzo Gracie patch for your white, blue or black Gi

The Academy Atmosphere

At Renzo Gracie Salt Lake City, you’ll find a welcoming, team-oriented environment—not an ego-driven “fight club.” Everyone starts as a beginner, and our students are known for being friendly, helpful, and encouraging.

While Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has deep roots in martial arts and MMA, our Academy culture emphasizes safety, respect, and growth—whether your goal is self-defense, competition, or fitness.

Hygiene and Etiquette on the Mats

Cleanliness and respect go hand in hand at Renzo Gracie SLC. Good hygiene keeps everyone safe and makes your training experience better. Before stepping on the mats:

Shower before class if possible and always wear clean training clothes.

Trim your nails on hands and feet to prevent accidental scratches.

Keep your Gi or rash guard fresh. Wash after every class—never wear gear twice without cleaning.

Avoid wearing shoes or socks on the mats. Shoes should be worn to and from the mat area.

Cover any cuts or open skin with athletic tape or a bandage.
Wear you hair back, up, and out of your face.

If you’re feeling sick or notice any skin irritation, sit class out until fully cleared.

These small habits build trust and make everyone more comfortable training together.

What to Bring to Your First Class

You don’t need any gear for your mini-private intro. Just wear comfortable workout clothes—gym shorts and a fitted shirt works great.


When you are a member:
If it’s a Gi class, you can purchase a GI for $100.

For No-Gi, wear athletic shorts and a fitted top that won’t roll up. You can purchase a rash guard and training shorts as well if you prefer.
Women can wear yoga pants instead of shorts. (no flare)

A few tips:

Remove all jewelry before training to avoid injury.

Bring water and an open mind—you’ll have fun!

Which Class to Attend

All our classes welcome all levels. Let your instructor know you’re new so they can pair you with a more experienced training partner.

If You’re Out of Shape

No problem at all. Jiu Jitsu is one of the best ways to get in shape—no prior fitness level required. You’ll have natural rest periods throughout class, and your partners will help you pace yourself. Just come as you are.

Safety at Renzo Gracie SLC

Your training experience is only as intense as you make it. As long as you communicate your goals and go at a comfortable pace, Jiu -Jitsu is remarkably safe.

At Renzo Gracie SLC, you’ll find a community of practitioners who care about longevity, respect, and technical progression—not reckless intensity. Of course, as with any sport, higher intensity training comes with greater physical risk, but you’ll always be in control of your pace.

Will You Learn Self-Defense?

Our academy follows the authentic Gracie lineage of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, tracing back to Grandmaster Carlos Gracie, the founder of the art. Carlos passed his knowledge to the Gracie family. Master Renzo Gracie trained and mentored Professor Stan Beck, founder of Renzo Gracie Salt Lake City.

At our academy, the focus remains true to what made Gracie Jiu -Jitsu world-renowned—real-world self-defense built on leverage, technique, and efficiency over strength. We also teach modern sport Jiu -Jitsu, but every movement begins from the foundation of practical self-protection and control.

That balance of self-defense and technical mastery is what defines the Renzo Gracie Salt Lake City approach.

Jiu-Jitsu for Women

Brazilian Jiu -Jitsu is one of the most empowering martial arts for women because it relies on technique over strength. Many of our female students train for self-defense, fitness, and confidence—and thrive doing it.

Salt Lake City is home to a vibrant women’s BJJ community, including world-class athletes like ADCC Champion Amy Campo. You’ll find a supportive and inspiring environment here.

Jiu-Jitsu for Older Beginners

There’s no such thing as “too old” to start. Students join us in their 30s, 40s, 50s—and beyond.

If you train smart, listen to your body, and communicate with your partners, Jiu-Jitsu can be practiced for a lifetime.

Ready to Begin?

Your first class is always the hardest to show up for—but it’s the most rewarding step you’ll take.

At Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy – Salt Lake City, you’ll find a warm, motivating community ready to welcome you to the mat.

Start your journey today

👉 Sign up for your free mini-private intro class!

ACADEMY

CUSTOMER CARE

CONTACT US

Monday to Friday:

6am-8pm

Saturday: 9am-12pm

Sunday- Closed

1-801-810-6550

[email protected]

615 Simpson Ave.

Salt Lake City, Utah 84106

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Salt Lake City, UT Renzo Gracie Jiu Jitsu All Rights Reserved