Welcome to the beginning of something incredible. I’m Professor Seidler Rodrigo, Head Instructor at Gracie Barra Riverton, and today I want to personally welcome you to the most important rank in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: the white belt.
That’s right, the white belt is more than just a starting point. It’s a symbol of courage, commitment, and the willingness to grow. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a parent considering jiu jitsu for kids, or someone tired of the same old routine at the gym, this article will show you why now is the perfect time to start your jiu jitsu journey, and why Gracie Barra Riverton is the right place to begin.
What Does It Mean to Be a White Belt in Jiu Jitsu?
The white belt is the first official rank in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). It represents a student who has just begun their training, someone with no prior experience, but who has taken the most important step: showing up.
It’s easy to underestimate the significance of being a beginner. But in reality, the white belt holds the greatest power, because every black belt was once a white belt who refused to give up.
As a white belt, you’ll learn:
- Basic positions (guard, mount, side control, back control)
- Escapes and transitions
- Foundational submissions and sweeps
- Jiu jitsu etiquette and safety principles
- How to train with respect, awareness, and control
You’ll also learn something even more valuable: how to embrace discomfort, build discipline, and approach challenges with a growth mindset.
Who Is the White Belt Level For?
One of the most beautiful aspects of Jiu Jitsu is that anyone can start. At Gracie Barra Riverton, our white belts include:
- Men and women of all fitness levels
- Kids as young as four years old
- Teens looking for structure and self-confidence
- Adults who’ve never set foot in a martial arts school before
- Parents training alongside their children
- People who tried other programs, like a traditional gym, but didn’t feel inspired
If you’ve ever thought “I’m too old,” “I’m not in shape,” or “I don’t think I can do this”, you’re exactly the kind of person we’re excited to welcome. The only prerequisite for becoming a white belt is the willingness to try.
When Should You Start Your Jiu Jitsu Journey?
The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is today.
There’s no perfect moment to begin. You don’t need to be in shape. You don’t need to feel ready. That’s what training is for.
The most common thing I hear from students is, “I wish I had started sooner.” Jiu Jitsu has a way of improving every area of your life, fitness, focus, confidence, discipline, and emotional resilience. And those benefits begin the day you step on the mat.
Our team at Gracie Barra Riverton offers year-round enrollment and free trial classes so you can start at your own pace and feel confident from day one.
Where Can You Train as a White Belt?
If you’re located in or near Riverton, Herriman, Draper, or South Jordan, Gracie Barra Riverton is your home for high-quality Jiu Jitsu training.
Our academy is:
- Clean, safe, and family-friendly
- Staffed by certified instructors who are passionate about helping beginners
- Structured with a proven curriculum developed by Master Carlos Gracie Jr.
- Equipped with mats, locker rooms, and plenty of parking
- Built on a culture of respect, humility, and teamwork
Unlike other jiu jitsu schools that can feel intimidating or disorganized, Gracie Barra is designed to support students at every level, especially beginners.
We also offer specialized jiu jitsu classes for different age groups and goals:
- Jiu jitsu for kids
- Women-only classes
- Family training sessions
- Adult beginners and all-level classes
Why Is the White Belt Stage So Important?
The white belt stage sets the foundation for your entire martial arts journey. It’s where you learn the building blocks of movement, control, and technique. But more importantly, it’s where you develop the mindset that will carry you through every future challenge in life.
Here’s why it matters:
- You learn to problem-solve under pressure
- You gain confidence by overcoming fear and self-doubt
- You begin building habits of discipline and consistency
- You develop emotional control and humility
- You experience community and support unlike anything in a traditional gym
White belts make the most progress in the shortest amount of time, because every class is new and exciting. You’ll be amazed by how much you can learn in just a few weeks.
How Do You Progress from White Belt?
At Gracie Barra, we use a belt and stripe system to track student progress. As a white belt, you’ll earn stripes on your belt to mark your advancement through the curriculum.
Progress is based on:
- Class attendance and consistency
- Understanding of techniques
- Ability to apply techniques during live training
- Demonstrating a positive attitude and sportsmanship
Most students earn their blue belt (the next rank) within 12–24 months, depending on their training frequency and dedication. But remember: Jiu Jitsu is a marathon, not a sprint. Our goal is to help you grow safely, steadily, and with purpose.
And don’t worry, you’ll never feel lost. Our instructors guide you every step of the way, and our class structure is designed to be clear, supportive, and beginner-friendly.
How Much Training Is Recommended for White Belts?
This is one of the most common questions we hear: How many days a week should I train as a white belt?
Here’s our expert advice:
- 2–3 days/week is ideal for beginners
- 1 day/week is enough to stay engaged if you have a busy schedule
- 4–5 days/week works for those eager to progress quickly
The key is consistency over intensity. It’s better to train 2 days per week for 6 months than 5 days per week for one month and burn out. Your body and mind need time to absorb the material and adapt.
Our coaches at Gracie Barra Riverton will help you build a training routine that fits your goals, schedule, and lifestyle.
Overcoming the Most Common Objections
We understand that trying something new can feel intimidating. Let’s address the biggest concerns we hear from beginners:
“I’m not in shape.”
That’s exactly why you start. You’ll build strength, endurance, and flexibility through training, not before it.
“I’m too old.”
There is no age limit to learning Jiu Jitsu. Many of our white belts are in their 30s, 40s, 50s, even 60s. You’ll train at your pace, safely and progressively.
“I don’t want to get hurt.”
Safety is our top priority. Gracie Barra follows strict safety protocols, and all sparring is optional and controlled. Beginners train with experienced partners to ensure learning happens in a supportive environment.
“I’m nervous to try.”
We get it. That’s why we offer a free intro class where you can observe or participate with zero pressure. We’re here to welcome you, not judge you.
Comparing Jiu Jitsu to Traditional Gyms
If you’ve ever felt uninspired at a traditional gym, Jiu Jitsu might be the change you’ve been looking for.
| Feature | Traditional Gym | Jiu Jitsu at Gracie Barra |
| Purpose | Fitness only | Fitness, self-defense, and mental growth |
| Environment | Individual, often anonymous | Team-based and supportive |
| Motivation | Self-driven | Encouraged by instructors and peers |
| Progress | Hard to measure | Structured through belts and stripes |
| Engagement | Repetitive | Dynamic and skill-based |
With jiu jitsu classes, you don’t just work out, you learn, grow, and improve every single time you step on the mat.
Final Thoughts: Your Journey Starts Here
There’s a reason Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the fastest-growing martial arts in the world. It’s not just about fighting, it’s about finding your strength, building real-life skills, and becoming the best version of yourself.
As a white belt, you’re not behind. You’re exactly where you’re supposed to be, at the beginning of a journey that will challenge and transform you in ways you never imagined.
At Gracie Barra Riverton, we’re honored to be your guide.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Join our community of dedicated beginners, motivated parents, empowered women, and growing kids. Whether you’re in Riverton, Draper, Herriman, or South Jordan, your Jiu Jitsu journey starts here, with us.
✅ Book your free trial class – CLICK HERE
✅ Meet our certified instructors
✅ Experience our world-class curriculum
✅ Discover how it feels to grow stronger every day
Let’s take the first step together.
