Is Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu The Martial Art For You?

There are literally hundreds of different martial arts, and classes for most of them can now be found all over the world. Deciding which of the various arts to learn can seem like a complicated task as a result! So is Brazillian jiu-jitsu (or 'BJJ') right for you?

BJJ could be the martial art you're looking for if...

Your primary motivation is self-defence.

If you're looking for a defensive fighting style that will give you the confidence to know you can get out of a difficult situation, BJJ is a great pick. It's mostly focused on ground fighting, and it doesn't rely on weight or size. It teaches techniques that don't rely on a formal sparring setup and will leave you with moves that are useful in almost any scenario. You'll also learn how to evade a grapple and get out of a situation in which someone is attempting to restrain you.

You don't have a huge physical presence.

BJJ was developed specifically for situations in which someone is smaller, lighter and potentially physically weaker than their opponents. This makes it a great choice for anyone interested in learning a martial art whose body type doesn't necessarily lend itself to more dominating fighting styles. Fitness and physical conditioning are both important, but you won't be relying on sheer power—anyone who has put in the work and developed the skill can win a BJJ bout.

You'd be interested in competition or tournament training.

There's a thriving competition scene for BJJ, which makes it an excellent option for anyone who thinks they might enjoy that scene. Competitions are a great chance to flex and improve your skills, and they're also a valuable addition to many people's social lives. The tournament days themselves aren't the only benefit they offer, though. When you train for these events, you'll have a goal in mind; something to work towards, another way to measure your progress and a direction to help you structure your training programme.

You're looking for a workout that encompasses body, mind and soul.

BJJ makes for an amazing whole-body workout. It improves your cardio, your muscle strength and your flexibility all at once, without the need for separate classes or additional disciplines. Like many martial arts, however, it also brings with it a philosophy. Learning about the mindset that comes with BJJ will help you become a better fighter, and it might also go some way toward helping you deepen your mind-body connection and improve your overall mental health.