Short answer: for your first Gi BJJ class, come in athletic clothes, and we lend you the gear you need. For No-Gi, wrestling, Muay Thai or boxing, wear fitted athletic shorts or leggings and a fitted t-shirt or rash guard, with no pockets, zippers or jewelry. Bring water and a pair of sandals, and arrive about 10 minutes early.
What to wear by class
- Gi BJJ: the uniform is provided for your first class. Wear a t-shirt or rash guard under the jacket if you like, and athletic shorts or leggings to change in.
- No-Gi and wrestling: a rash guard or fitted t-shirt, and grappling shorts or leggings without pockets or zippers.
- Muay Thai and boxing: athletic shorts and a t-shirt. If you own gloves and hand wraps, bring them. If you do not, let us know when you book.
- Kids classes: comfortable athletic clothes. For Kids BJJ we lend the uniform for the first class.
What to bring
- A water bottle.
- Sandals or flip-flops for walking off the mat.
- A hair tie if you have long hair.
- A towel and a change of clothes for after class.
Before you step on the mat
- Trim your fingernails and toenails, which protects your partners.
- Take off rings, earrings, watches and necklaces.
- Come in clean clothes, and never train with an open cut or a skin rash.
- No shoes on the mat. Bare feet only.
These are part of the rules and etiquette every student follows. Read more on what to expect at your first class.
After the first class
If you decide to keep training, ask our coaches for help choosing a gi, rash guard or gloves that fit. You can also browse gear in the One Way shop. Pick your first class on the schedule: BJJ, No-Gi, Muay Thai, boxing or wrestling.
Get my free first class. No experience needed. One Way Martial Arts, 5416 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA, next to the Van Dorn Street Metro.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy a gi for my first BJJ class?
No. At One Way Martial Arts in Alexandria, VA, you come in athletic clothes, and we lend you the gear you need, so you can try BJJ before buying anything.
Can I wear a regular t-shirt to No-Gi?
A fitted t-shirt works for your first class. Avoid loose shirts, pockets and zippers, which can catch fingers and toes.
Should I wear shoes on the mat?
No. Mats are for bare feet only. Wear sandals or flip-flops when you walk off the mat, including to the bathroom.
What should kids wear to their first class?
Comfortable athletic clothes without zippers or buttons. For Kids BJJ, we lend the uniform for the first class.