By: Logan C. (BJJ Brown Belt & coach) Posted: 1/31/25
1. What Should I Wear for My First Class?
No need for fancy gear! For your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class, just bring:
- A set of comfortable workout clothes (gym shorts and a t-shirt are perfect).
- Sandals or slides to wear off the mat (you’ll train barefoot on the mats).
- A water bottle to stay hydrated during training.
That’s it! As long as you’re dressed to move, you’ll be ready to dive into the basics of BJJ. At Citadel BJJ, we prioritize a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere for beginners, so don’t stress—just come prepared to have fun.
2. Do I Need to Be in Shape for This?
Absolutely not! There’s no “fitness test” to join BJJ. People of all fitness levels can start, and you’ll naturally improve your strength, endurance, and flexibility as you train. In fact, many beginners who haven’t worked out regularly before BJJ end up loving how the sport helps them get in shape over time.
BJJ is designed to be scalable—you’ll train at your pace. The key is consistency, and you’ll soon find that BJJ is as much about building technique as it is about getting a great workout. As we like to say: “Isn’t that the point?” For more information on this topic, check out our blog Do I Need to Get in Shape Before Starting BJJ?.
3. Do You Have Beginner BJJ Classes?
YES!!! and they’re tailored to beginners just like you! At Citadel BJJ, our Fundamentals Program is specifically designed for new students. Whether you’re brand-new to martial arts or just looking to brush up on the basics, this program covers everything from basic positions and escapes to key techniques.
Beginner Class Schedule:
- Monday-Thursday: 6 PM – 6:45 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 10:45 AM
The program is led by Coach Logan, a BJJ brown belt who has been training since 2017 and has competed across the country. Logan’s approach focuses on making sure beginners feel comfortable and gain a strong understanding of the fundamentals. For more details, check out Fundamentals Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Iowa City – Citadel BJJ.
4. Do I Have to Pay for My First BJJ Class?
Nope! At Citadel BJJ, we want you to experience what we’re all about before making any commitment. That’s why we offer 2 FREE trial classes for both adults and kids. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore the gym, meet the coaches, and get a feel for BJJ without any pressure.
Most people leave their first class feeling inspired and excited to come back. Give it a try—you’ve got nothing to lose!
5. When Should I Arrive Before My First BJJ Class at Citadel?
We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your scheduled class. This gives you time to check in, meet the coaches, and get acquainted with the gym. One of the owners or coaches will be there to greet you, answer any last-minute questions, and guide you through the process.
You’ll also get a chance to check out our new facility, built in 2024, which is designed to be both beginner-friendly and high-performance for all levels of practitioners.
Meet the Owners: Matt Leighton & James Kelly
Citadel BJJ was built on a foundation of expertise and a passion for teaching. Here’s what you need to know about the team leading the way:
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Matt Leighton (Head Coach – Adults Program): A BJJ black belt with years of international competition experience, Matt has competed at the highest levels all over the world. As the head coach of the adult program, Matt is known for his technical knowledge and ability to break down complex techniques in a way that’s easy to understand for beginners and advanced students alike.
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James Kelly (Head Coach – Kids Program): Also a BJJ black belt, James brings a wealth of experience in both BJJ and wrestling. He’s been training since the 1990s and co-founded the highly respected Eastern Iowa Wrestling program. As the head coach of the kids program, James focuses on building strong fundamentals and character development in young athletes.
Together, Matt and James have created an environment where students of all ages and experience levels can thrive.
Why You Should Train at Citadel BJJ Iowa City
✅ Newly built, state-of-the-art facility
✅ The most 5-star Google reviews in Iowa (276 and counting!)
✅ Highly experienced instructors
✅ 7 days a week training, up to 4 classes per day
✅ A supportive, friendly community
No matter your experience level, we welcome everyone—from beginners to seasoned martial artists. Whether you’re training for fitness, competition, or self-defense, you’ll find a home at Citadel BJJ Iowa City.
Join Citadel BJJ Iowa City
Start your BJJ expreince with us at Citadel BJJ. With a FREE TRIAL for newcomers, there’s never been a better time to start. Whether you seek personal growth, physical fitness, or a welcoming community.
Bonus: Citadel BJJ Testimonials
Author Box:
I’m Logan, a brown belt and fundamentals coach at Citadel BJJ in Iowa City. As an assistant kids coach with competition experience across the USA, I’ve been grappling since 2017. I focus on building a strong foundation for beginners and fostering a supportive environment for all students.
Read more Citadel BJJ Blogs: https://bjjiniowacity.com/iowa-city-blog/
Citadel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Iowa City
Address: 2325 Naples Ave SW, Iowa City, IA 52240
319-855-8110
Url: https://www.bjjiniowacity.com
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