Some female students have said training with men in Jiu Jitsu can initially feel intimidating, but it’s essential to create a comfortable and inclusive training environment for everyone. At High Altitude Martial Arts, we offer a free women’s only class on Saturdays that is open to all academies. Here are some tips for women to feel more comfortable training with men in Jiu Jitsu class.
Choose the Right Gym: Select an academy with a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Speak with instructors and current members to gauge their attitude toward gender diversity. Read Google reviews and do your research.
Open Communication: Communicate your concerns and expectations with your training partners and instructors. Open, honest conversations can help establish mutual respect and understanding. Tell them you are nervous/anxious. Tell them what you are wanting to gain from the session. Be sure to disclose any injuries.
Trust Your Training Partners: Trust is fundamental in Jiu Jitsu. As you train and build rapport with your male training partners, you’ll likely become more comfortable working with them. Start off with someone you consider a friend or a trusted instructor. They will definitely work with you to get your more comfortable.
Set Boundaries: If there are techniques or situations that make you uncomfortable, make your boundaries clear. It’s essential to maintain a safe and respectful training environment. Communication is key.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about techniques or positions you’re unsure about. Most training partners will be willing to help and explain. A lot of people enjoy teaching and helping others. It actually helps them fine tune their own techniques as well!
Partner Selection: If you have the choice, select training partners you feel most comfortable with, regardless of their gender. Over time, you may become more comfortable training with a variety of partners. Try to go to class with an open mind and tell yourself you will partner with anyone. There is such an empowering feeling when you are able to overcome your fears and accomplish this.
Self-Defense Focus: Some women may initially prefer to focus on self-defense aspects of Jiu Jitsu before diving into more competitive or sport-focused training or live rounds. This can boost confidence and create a foundation.
Female-Focused Classes: Some gyms offer female-focused or women-only Jiu Jitsu classes. These can be a great way to start and build confidence before transitioning to co-ed classes. Once you feel like you have a strong foundation, you may feel like training with the general population isn’t as scary as it seems.
Supportive Community: Engage with and seek support from other women in the Jiu Jitsu community. Many women have been through similar experiences and can offer advice and encouragement.
Build Confidence: Jiu Jitsu takes time to master. As you gain experience and confidence, you’ll naturally feel more at ease training with men.
Remember that every gym and individual is unique, so it’s essential to find an environment that aligns with your goals and comfort level. Over time, you may discover that training with men in Jiu Jitsu can be a positive and empowering experience.
