“Am I Too Old?”, “I’m Not Fit”, “Will I Get Hurt?”: Crushing the 5 Biggest Fears Before Starting BJJ

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Before Starting BJJ

Before Starting BJJ perhaps you’ve watched a BJJ match and felt a sense of awe, heard a friend talk about how fun it is, or are looking for a Martial art that serves as both a great workout and a self-defense skill. But then, a small voice in your head pipes up… “But can I really do it?”

This feeling of excitement mixed with hesitation and fear is completely normal. Almost everyone who steps onto the mat for the first time has felt the exact same way. Today, we’re going to answer the five most common questions and concerns that people have, to help turn your fear into courage.

1. "Before Starting BJJ Am I too old for this?"

This is one of the biggest misconceptions about Before Starting BJJ. The truth is, BJJ was designed to be “The Gentle Art,” a discipline that relies on technique, leverage, and intelligence over the raw strength or speed of a young athlete. You don’t need to be 20 to excel at BJJ. Many people start training in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and even 60s, discovering that it’s the perfect hobby for adults because it challenges the mind while sustainably building strength.

Women in Bangkok Train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

2. "Do I need to be fit first? I'm not strong at all."

You do not need to “get fit” Before Starting BJJ ; rather, BJJ is the tool that will get you fit. Think of it this way: you don’t need to lose weight before going to the gym; you go to the gym to become healthier. Beginner classes are specifically designed to gradually build your foundational strength and endurance systematically. No matter your current fitness level, our coaches will guide and push you step by step. All you need is the will to start.

3. "I'm afraid of getting hurt. Is it dangerous?"

Safety is the absolute cornerstone of training in any grappling art. In BJJ, we have the most important safety mechanism of all: the “Tap.” Anytime you feel pain, discomfort, or are simply overwhelmed, you can lightly tap your training partner or the mat, and your partner will immediately stop. This is a social contract and an ironclad rule that everyone respects. Furthermore, training in a professional gym like BJJBKK, with expert coaches supervising closely, ensures you learn everything in a safe and controlled environment.

4. "Will the gym atmosphere be intimidating?"

You can erase the “fight club” image of aggression from your mind. The atmosphere in most BJJ gyms is the complete opposite. It’s a community of people with a shared goal: to learn and improve. You will find that training partners, from white belts to black belts, are friendly and always ready to help each other. The culture of respect is especially strong when training in traditional Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with the gi. You’ll be surprised at how quickly a BJJ gym can feel like a second home.

5. "Will I be the only woman in the class?"

In this day and age, the answer is “definitely not.” The number of women training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has grown exponentially worldwide, and Bangkok is no exception. This is because BJJ has proven to be one of the most effective self-defense systems for women, as it teaches how to use technique to overcome a size and strength disadvantage. You will certainly find a strong and supportive sisterhood on the mats to encourage you on your journey.

Turn Your Fear into Courage

The biggest challenge in the beginning is often not your opponent on the mat, but the voice of doubt in your own head. Take a step past that wall of fear and come prove to yourself that you are capable of more than you ever imagined.

BJJBKK invites you to experience our friendly and safe atmosphere in a free trial class. You’ll find that the answer to all your questions… is waiting for you on the mats

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Grappling Academy - 2025 "Am I Too Old?", "I'm Not Fit", "Will I Get Hurt?": Crushing the 5 Biggest Fears Before Starting BJJ

Training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Bangkok offers not just physical benefits, but mental and social rewards as well. Avoiding these common beginner mistakes will help you build a solid foundation and enjoy the long-term benefits of BJJ.

At BrazilianJiuJitsuBKK.com, we welcome students of all levels. Our experienced instructors, international community, and central Bangkok location make us the ideal place to begin or continue your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey.

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