Adult Program
Fundamentals
Build the Foundation First
Our Fundamentals class is designed specifically for beginners with no prior experience. Learn the core positions and concepts of Jiu Jitsu alongside other new students — no pressure, no experience required.
Become a Founding MemberWhat Is It?
Your Introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
The Fundamentals program is your introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You'll learn the core positions, movements, and concepts that form the backbone of the sport.
Rather than overwhelming beginners with endless techniques, our Fundamentals classes focus on the high-percentage positions and concepts that remain relevant at every stage of training — from white belt to black belt. These are the skills you'll use every time you step on the mats.
At Northstar Jiu Jitsu in Eau Claire, our goal is simple: create a comfortable, welcoming environment where new students can learn alongside others who are just starting out.
How Class Works
- Build the foundation first
- Train with other beginners
- Learn essential positions
- Get ready for All Levels classes
Core Positions Covered
Guard Guard Passing Positional Control Wrestling for Jiu JitsuThe Basics
What Is the Goal of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has two primary objectives:
Achieve Dominant Positions
Gain and maintain control over your opponent by reaching positions of advantage — Side Control, Mount, Back Control, and more.
Submit Your Opponent
Force a "tap" by applying submissions. In training, this resets the round so learning can continue. Submissions are rarely achieved without first gaining control — so our Fundamentals program emphasizes positional understanding first.
Curriculum
What Beginners Learn
Each Fundamentals class focuses on two of the three core areas below, ensuring consistent repetition and steady progress. Classes are about practicing techniques against real resistance in a beginner-friendly setting.
Guard
"Guard" is the defensive position used by the person on the bottom. Because a grounded opponent lacks the mobility of standing, they use their legs and feet to control distance, defend, and create offensive opportunities.
A common example is Closed Guard — where the bottom player wraps their legs around the waist of the top player, limiting movement and forcing engagement. Understanding Guard allows beginners to stay safe, slow the pace, and begin attacking from the bottom position.
Guard Passing
Guard passing is the goal of the top player. Using balance, pressure, and movement, the guard passer works to control the opponent's legs and advance into dominant positions such as Side Control, Mount, Back Control, Turtle, and Front Headlock.
These skills teach beginners how to stay on top, maintain balance, and systematically improve their position.
Wrestling for Jiu Jitsu
Every round of Jiu Jitsu — both in training and competition — starts on the feet. Being able to decide who starts on top and who starts on bottom is a major advantage.
Our Fundamentals classes introduce wrestling concepts that are practical, controlled, and appropriate for beginners — teaching you how to safely and effectively take an opponent down.
What You'll Gain
Ready for the Mats From Day One
By training core concepts through repetition and live resistance, you'll develop a clear understanding of how Jiu Jitsu works, confidence training with resisting partners, the ability to recognize dominant positions, and the skills needed to safely participate in regular classes.
Most importantly, you'll be able to step onto the mats and enjoy training from your very first day — without feeling lost or overwhelmed.
Become a Founding MemberCommon Questions
Questions From Adult Beginners
What Is Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu is a non-striking martial art where students learn to control an opponent using technique, leverage, and live practice. It can be trained for self-defense, sport, fitness, and personal growth.
Does Jiu Jitsu Work for Self-Defense?
Yes. Jiu Jitsu is built around using technique, leverage, and timing to control larger, stronger opponents. That's why it's valuable for self-defense, sport, and building real confidence.
What Does My First Class Look Like?
Your first class is beginner-friendly. All you need is athletic clothes. We'll explain the goals of Jiu Jitsu, introduce basic positions, and guide you through partner practice step by step.
