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Learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you start drilling submissions. The positions, grips, pressure, and timing all matter, and new students often feel unsure about how to connect everything smoothly. Training in a high quality Jiu Jitsu gym can make a significant difference, especially when the instruction breaks down each technique in a clear and practical way. If you are training in Madison or plan to join a program like piratebjj which offers a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym experience, you will quickly discover how empowering mastering your first submissions can be.
This detailed guide outlines the foundational submissions every beginner should know, how to learn them safely, and what to focus on during your BJJ journey. The goal is to help you understand not only how submissions work but also how to practice them with confidence.
Submissions are a core element of BJJ, which is built on the idea that a smaller person can neutralize a larger opponent through leverage, positioning, and technique. Submissions allow a practitioner to end a fight without striking, relying on joint locks or chokes that control your partner until they submit.
A beginner-friendly Jiu Jitsu gym usually starts with teaching submissions because:
They reveal how leverage wins over strength.
They increase your confidence quickly.
They teach essential body mechanics for future techniques.
They encourage calmness under pressure.
Madison has a growing BJJ community, and programs like piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym sessions help beginners build a strong technical foundation.
Before exploring the specific submissions you will encounter in your Madison classes, it is important to understand how to learn them safely and effectively.
1. Position before submission Controlling an opponent is always more important than finishing the submission. Without proper control, they will escape easily.
2. Tap early, tap often In every Jiu Jitsu gym, instructors encourage students to tap quickly during training. This prevents injuries and builds trust between partners.
3. Understand the mechanics Most submissions rely on consistent principles, such as isolating a limb or restricting airflow. Focusing on mechanics helps you master techniques faster.
4. Drill slowly at first Speed comes later. Precision comes first.
5. Respect your partner’s safety BJJ is cooperative during training. The goal is to learn, not overpower your partner.
When you follow these principles, your time on the mat at a Madison Jiu Jitsu gym becomes more productive and safe.
Below are the fundamental submissions you will encounter early in your training. These come from traditional closed guard, mount, side control, and other foundational positions. Learning these builds your submission vocabulary and strengthens your overall BJJ game.
The armbar is one of the most iconic techniques in BJJ. It works by hyperextending the opponent’s elbow joint through leverage, not strength.
Teaches hip movement
Builds an understanding of angles
Works regardless of size differences
Common in self defense and sport settings
Start in closed guard and secure a strong grip on your partner’s arm.
Break their posture by pulling them forward.
Place one foot on the hip to pivot your body.
Swing your leg over their head.
Squeeze your knees together and lift your hips to finish.
Not controlling the shoulder line
Allowing too much space between your knees
Forgetting to keep the thumb pointing upward
You will drill this submission frequently at any Madison Jiu Jitsu gym and particularly in programs such as piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym instruction.
The triangle choke is a powerful technique where you use your legs to encircle the opponent’s neck and arm, cutting off blood flow.
Builds comfort with guard retention
Teaches leg engagement, which is critical in BJJ
Encourages understanding of posture control
Start from closed or open guard.
Pull your opponent’s head down and trap one arm inside your legs.
Shoot your leg over their shoulder and lock your legs together.
Rotate your angle until you face the trapped arm.
Squeeze your legs and apply pressure.
Not creating a proper angle
Leaving your legs loose
Forgetting to pull the head down
The triangle choke will appear repeatedly in Madison classes, especially when drilling guard attacks.
The guillotine choke is a front headlock choke that uses your arms to apply pressure to the opponent's neck.
Works in self defense
Simple mechanics
Easy to transition from takedown scrambles
Wrap your arm around the opponent’s neck with their head under your armpit.
Secure your hands together using the appropriate grip.
Sit guard or stay standing depending on the variation.
Lift your elbow and lean back to apply pressure.
Incorrect grip
Poor hip engagement
Pulling sideways instead of upward
Your instructor at any Madison Jiu Jitsu gym will help refine this technique, and piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym classes frequently emphasizes proper guillotine entries.
Often referred to as the highest percentage submission in grappling, the rear naked choke works from the strongest control position, the back.
Works with minimal strength
Teaches positional dominance
Foundation for advanced back attacks
Secure back control with hooks or body triangle.
Slide one arm under the opponent’s chin.
Lock the choking arm with your other hand behind their head.
Squeeze your elbows together and pull backward.
Losing back control too early
Crossing your ankles when you should not
Using arm strength instead of whole body mechanics
The rear naked choke is essential for anyone training BJJ in Madison.
This shoulder lock is often taught from the mount or side control.
Strong control positions
Teaches joint isolation skills
Secure mount or side control.
Pin your opponent’s wrist to the mat.
Slide your other arm under their arm and grab your own wrist.
Lift their elbow while keeping their wrist pinned.
Allowing your opponent to straighten their arm
Losing the pinned wrist
Using speed instead of slow, controlled pressure
Instructors at a Madison Jiu Jitsu gym will emphasize control over strength for this technique.
Simply learning a submission is not enough. The key to improving in BJJ is consistent, thoughtful training.
Submissions only work when your position is stable. Training in a structured Jiu Jitsu gym helps you understand transitions and control.
Guard retention
Hip movement
Proper weight distribution
Grip sequences
Not all drilling is equal. Beginners should drill slowly, focusing on precision.
Repeat each movement until it becomes automatic.
Ask your partner to offer moderate resistance once you understand the movement.
Focus on your breathing and posture.
Switch angles frequently to understand variations of the same technique.
Advanced students flow from one submission to another effortlessly. Beginners can start learning simple chains early.
Armbar to triangle
Triangle to omoplata
Guillotine to mount transition
Americana to straight armbar
Your Madison Jiu Jitsu gym instructor will guide you through these connections over time.
Beginners often forget that studying defense is as important as studying offense.
When you understand how a partner escapes, you understand how to prevent that escape.
Posture control in guard
Hand fighting on the back
Safe arm positioning
How to frame properly
Your knowledge of defense strengthens your submission skills.
Live training, known as rolling, is where you test your techniques. This is the moment when your drilling becomes practical.
Choose one submission to focus on per session.
Do not rely on strength or speed.
Try starting from positions related to the submission you want to improve.
Ask higher belts for feedback.
At piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym classes, instructors often give structured rolling guidance so beginners progress safely and confidently.
Choosing the right place to train affects your BJJ journey significantly. A high quality Jiu Jitsu gym provides structured teaching, safety, and community.
1. Expert guidance Qualified instructors break techniques down clearly and help you avoid injuries.
2. Progress tracking Beginners benefit from programs designed to build fundamental skills step by step.
3. Safe environment Safety culture ensures respectful training between partners.
4. Regular drilling and sparring Consistent practice is essential for mastering submissions.
5. Encouraging community Training partners help you grow and stay motivated.
Madison programs like piratebjj which offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym training follow these principles to support beginners and advanced practitioners alike.
Reduce overload by focusing on a small set of submissions at a time. Mastering a few core techniques gives you confidence and progress.
Spend more time drilling positions such as mount, guard, and side control. Submissions work only when control is present.
Practice slowly and communicate with your training partner. Confidence builds with repetition.
Tapping is part of learning. Every experienced practitioner taps thousands of times. Embrace the process.
Never wait for pain.
Your partner’s safety always comes first.
Let your partner know if something feels uncomfortable.
Cold muscles increase injury risk.
Correct technique prevents bad habits.
These habits create a safe and enjoyable training environment at any Madison Jiu Jitsu gym.
Mastering basic submissions is one of the most rewarding milestones in your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey. It builds confidence, teaches body control, and opens the door to more advanced techniques. Whether you are practicing armbars, triangle chokes, guillotines, rear naked chokes, or shoulder locks, the key is consistent practice, clear guidance, and maintaining a positive training mindset.
Making new friends as an adult can be challenging, especially in a world where social circles often shrink after school or college. Yet, finding a community where you can share experiences, grow, and connect with others is possible through sports. One of the most effective ways to meet like-minded individuals is by practicing BJJ or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Madison, the martial arts scene is thriving, and gyms like Pirate BJJ offer more than just technical training—they create a welcoming environment where friendships naturally form.
This article will explore how joining Pirate BJJ and participating in martial arts classes in Madison can help you build meaningful friendships while improving your fitness, confidence, and mental resilience.
Unlike solitary workouts like running or lifting weights, BJJ emphasizes interaction, collaboration, and trust. Here’s why it’s an excellent environment for social connections:
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is fundamentally a partner sport. Most drills, including warm-ups, positional exercises, and sparring, require working with a partner. This interaction naturally promotes communication and cooperation.
Learning to trust your partner during training builds bonds quickly
Practicing techniques together encourages encouragement and mutual growth
Shared challenges, like rolling against more experienced practitioners, foster camaraderie
Gyms like Pirate BJJ in Madison are known for their friendly and inclusive culture. Regardless of age, fitness level, or experience, everyone is welcome, and members often support each other both on and off the mats.
Community events and open mat sessions allow for casual socializing
Belt promotion ceremonies celebrate personal growth collectively
Veteran members often mentor newcomers, creating instant connections
One of the strongest bonds in martial arts comes from working toward shared objectives. In BJJ, students strive for improved techniques, belt promotions, and personal milestones. Sharing these victories, big or small, strengthens relationships.
Rolling sessions (sparring) create mutual respect
Celebrating promotions or successful competition results fosters a sense of belonging
Overcoming challenges together helps form lasting friendships
If you are new to BJJ, taking the first step might feel intimidating. However, the environment is designed to be welcoming, especially at gyms like Pirate BJJ.
Most gyms in Madison offer classes specifically for beginners. These sessions focus on fundamentals and create a safe space for newcomers to learn without judgment.
Ask questions and engage with instructors—they are usually approachable and eager to help
Attend multiple beginner sessions to meet other newcomers
Participate in partner drills and try to rotate partners for broader interactions
Open mat sessions allow students to train freely without a structured class. This is a perfect opportunity to practice techniques, ask for tips, and strike up conversations with fellow practitioners.
Start by asking for a rolling partner if you are new
Observe advanced students and compliment or ask for advice—it can open the door to friendly interactions
Bring a positive and respectful attitude, which naturally attracts like-minded peers
Many BJJ gyms host social events such as barbecues, movie nights, or group outings. Participating in these events is an excellent way to connect with members outside the training environment.
Attend gym-organized competitions or seminars
Volunteer for gym activities; this shows commitment and helps you bond with members
Invite fellow students to grab a post-class coffee or meal
Making friends in BJJ Madison is not just about attending classes; it is about how you interact during training.
Mutual respect is at the core of all martial arts. Treating your partners with care and professionalism makes you approachable and trustworthy.
Follow etiquette, such as hygiene, bowing, and safety during rolls
Be patient when rolling with less experienced practitioners
Celebrate your partner’s successes and progress
Instead of viewing training as purely competitive, approach it as an opportunity to learn together. Sharing tips, giving constructive feedback, and asking for guidance creates natural connections.
Partner drills allow for joint problem-solving
Ask questions about techniques or strategies
Offer help when a partner struggles; collaboration fosters camaraderie
Showing up consistently sends a message that you are committed and dependable. People naturally gravitate toward those they can rely on, both in training and socially.
Attend classes regularly
Engage actively in group discussions and post-class chats
Follow through on social invitations, such as joining gym outings or competitions
While martial arts provide a great platform for socializing, some challenges may arise, especially for newcomers.
It is common to feel nervous when training alongside more experienced students. Remember that everyone started as a beginner, and Pirate BJJ emphasizes a supportive culture.
Focus on your personal progress rather than comparisons
Use rolling sessions as learning opportunities, not competitions
Approach higher belts politely and ask for advice—they often enjoy mentoring beginners
Many adults struggle to balance work, family, and social activities. Consistency in training is key, but flexibility is essential.
Choose classes that fit your schedule and stick to them
Communicate with gym staff about your availability; some gyms offer make-up classes
Make small but meaningful efforts to connect, such as chatting briefly after class
Approaching new people can be challenging for introverts or those with social anxiety. Martial arts provide a structured environment that can help ease these concerns.
Partner drills create natural interaction points without forced small talk
Focus on shared goals instead of personal social performance
Start with one or two consistent training partners to build confidence gradually
Pirate BJJ stands out among BJJ Madison gyms for its welcoming environment and strong sense of community. Here are some reasons why it is perfect for building friendships:
Pirate BJJ’s instructors focus not only on technical skills but also on fostering a supportive culture. Mentorship programs pair newcomers with experienced students, encouraging learning and social bonds.
From beginner classes to advanced techniques, Pirate BJJ accommodates all levels, ensuring that everyone can participate comfortably.
Beginner fundamentals classes
Advanced technique and sparring sessions
Open mat and specialty workshops
Pirate BJJ actively encourages community involvement, from charity events to in-house competitions and casual gatherings.
Opportunities to connect beyond the mats
Celebrations of milestones like belt promotions
Gym culture emphasizes mutual respect and friendship
The gym maintains a culture of respect and inclusivity, making it easy for newcomers to feel comfortable and valued.
Policies against bullying or aggressive behavior
Open-door approach for questions and guidance
Welcoming members of all ages, genders, and fitness levels
Once you have started forming connections, it is important to nurture those friendships. BJJ and other martial arts provide unique ways to strengthen these bonds.
Consistency builds trust and camaraderie. Partnering with friends for drills or rolling sessions deepens your connection.
Schedule regular training sessions with your friends
Try different class types together to learn collaboratively
Celebrate each other’s milestones
Friendships extend beyond the mats. Attending social events, supporting competitions, or simply checking in can make relationships stronger.
Join local BJJ tournaments or seminars as a group
Celebrate birthdays or personal achievements
Share resources like technique videos or nutrition tips
A positive attitude fosters a healthy training environment. Encouraging words during training or after successful rolls make you a valued friend and partner.
Offer constructive feedback respectfully
Acknowledge effort, not just results
Celebrate the growth of others without jealousy
Living the values of BJJ—discipline, respect, humility, and perseverance—enhances friendships and builds deeper bonds.
Practice these values on and off the mats
Engage with the wider martial arts community in Madison
Share experiences and advice, creating a culture of mutual support
Making friends as an adult can feel daunting, but joining BJJ in Madison provides an organic, fun, and effective way to build lasting connections. By attending classes at Pirate BJJ, participating in drills, engaging in open mat sessions, and taking part in social events, you can form friendships rooted in trust, mutual growth, and shared experiences.
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