Let’s get equipped!

I hope you are ready to press the “2 Ways to Join” button and begin self-defense training with me using my online instructional videos! The first 10 videos are uploaded and ready. Now, I’m waiting to see you on the mat! I cannot wait to introduce you to Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ). You will be amazed at how simple and empowering each technique is to learn. You will learn how to fall properly without injury. Protect yourself from punches, chokes, behind the back “bear hugs” and so much more! Let’s get equipped!

If you are wondering what kind of equipment you might need, I made a list of equipment you may want to consider before you train. Scroll down for the list. But first …

Check out my training space … and my dog!

Want to see the training space in my home? You’ll see the mats I decided to buy, and oh, yes, you’ll meet my dog Brandy, who tends to randomly show up in my videos!

Now, let’s make your equipment list:

You!

Duh. I cannot wait to see you on the mat! You will be so happy you are learning a new life skill!

A training buddy

Grab a family member and/or girlfriend. There are a few videos that can be done individually, but most of the instructional videos require a training partner to get the most value. Plus, training with family members and girlfriends is so much more fun! Go get your training buddy!

Soft training space

Before you start training, I recommend setting up a designated training space that’s soft. Yoga mats, beach towels and even the carpet is better than the hard floor. The best option would be mats.  As you saw in the video, I bought the interlocking mats . These are reasonably priced and have multi-functions. The folding gymnastic mats are nice too. You can get fancy and buy jiu-jitsu/MMA mats, but that is not necessary. Bottom line, set-up a training space big enough for two people to train. I started with a 4×6 space and I just doubled it to have a little more room. I use the interlocking mats. I recommend the 8×12 space so two people can comfortably perform all the techniques.

I bought my mats on Amazon. The mats come in a 4×6 package for $20. So I spent$40. Share the price with your training buddies! Or, ask your school, church or fitness center if you can borrow mats! Be sure to keep them clean with disinfect wipes or spray before and after use.

Comfortable Clothes

You don’t have to buy fancy work-out clothes, but wear clothes you can comfortably move around in while standing and while moving on the ground.

No shoes

I prefer to train without shoes. Typically, I’m on an exercise or yoga mat which needs to stay clean. I don’t wear shoes or socks. Plus, wearing socks can be slippery. Training in bare feet will keep your training space clean, strengthen your feet and encourage better balance.

Hair bands

Yes girls, please pull your hair back into a pony tail or whatever you prefer. When your hair is up and out of your face, you can see better and train better. And when you work with a partner, you are less likely to accidentally pull each other’s hair.

A teachable spirit

I’ll be honest, when I started learning jiu-jitsu, I walked off the mat several times completely frustrated.

The techniques look so simple and easy, yet I was unable to do them right away. The techniques take practice. Be patient with yourself. The online instructional videos are designed to be watched repeatedly. And you can watch and practice from the comfort of your own home and training space until you master the technique.

I remember going to a one-day self-defense workshop and learning a million cool techniques. But when I got home to share my new knowledge, everything was mixed up or had vanished from my brain. I had not practiced enough to create the muscle memory. BJJ techniques are simple but requires practice.  This is just like any other sport. You can’t expect to hit a three-pointer in basketball or pitch the perfect strike in softball without practice. Come to the mat with a good attitude, willingness to learn, discipline to practice … and you will succeed!

That’s it! Gather yourself, your positive attitude, friends and a soft place to train. See you on the mat!

Remember to tell me about your training space! Send me an email to jody@thegreatflip.com or follow me on Instagram @thegreatflip and use hashtag #thegreatflip in your posts!

Click on “2 Ways to Join” now!