Many people have heard of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and have various reasons for wanting to study the martial art, but they don't know where to begin their journey. When you Google for schools in your area, you're probably presented with several results. How do you choose? What should you be looking for in an instructor?
The School
What is the environment like at the school? Many schools offer a free trial class. During this session, you have the opportunity to evaluate the teaching style and the atmosphere. Does the instructor demonstrate techniques clearly? Are the students friendly? Do they have attitudes? Do advanced students take time to demonstrate techniques to you?
Another important element is the owner of the school. Your instructor may teach under someone or another owner. You're entering an environment and the overall atmosphere of the school plays a crucial role in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program.
The Instructor
When it comes to your instructor, you have the right to ask questions. Although you don't know much about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you have the right to ask questions. Your potential teacher, what is his/her rank? How long have they trained?
A benefit of living in the age of social media is to look at the reviews. That or do your own google searches on the school and the instructor. If your instructor has a questionable relationship with his students or a bad reputation, you'll probably find more than a few negative reviews.
Your search should also reflect your goals. Are you training for self-defense? Fitness? Do you want to compete? Let your instructor know all of this. The vibe you get while taking your free class or observing a class will provide you with insight into the instructor's style.
You should also inquire about or ask the instructor about his belt lineage. Unfortunately, there are many frauds in the martial arts world. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu's popularity has given birth to some questionable instructors and black belts.