1 BJJ Academy in Mount Prospect.

Picking a gym, your first class, gear, belts, and how often to train. Everything you need to walk in the door.

What to wear, how the class runs, whether you'll spar on day one, and why tapping is a good thing.

The coach, the beginner program, the culture on the mat, and the contract. What to check and what to walk away from.

Membership prices, real drop-in fees from listed academies, gear costs, and the fees hiding in the fine print.