Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Hard to Learn? Tips for Beginners
You might be asking yourself, “Is it hard to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?” It’s a fair question, because BJJ can look pretty intimidating at first glance. You see people grappling on the mats and wonder if you’ll ever reach that level. The good news is, you don’t need superhuman strength or Olympic-level fitness to get started. Just an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a dash of patience are enough to begin your BJJ journey.
Table of Contents
- What is Brazilian jiu jitsu?
- Why people ask: Is BJJ hard to learn?
- Challenges of learning Brazilian jiu jitsu
- Choosing Between Gi and No-Gi BJJ
- What is Gi BJJ?
- What is No-Gi BJJ?
- Which Should You Choose?
- Tips For Beginners To Learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- How long does it take to get good at BJJ?
- Final Words: Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Hard to Learn
What is Brazilian jiu jitsu?
Brazilian jiu jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on ground fighting, submissions, and positional control. Its core idea is that a smaller individual can overcome a bigger, stronger opponent by using leverage and technique. Because it gives real-life self-defense skills and promotes overall fitness, BJJ is popular among people of all sizes, ages, and backgrounds.
Why people ask: Is BJJ hard to learn?
BJJ can look like a tangle of limbs and complicated moves when you’re first watching it. There are countless techniques with odd-sounding names (like “triangle choke” or “rear-naked choke”) that might feel overwhelming. On top of that, rolling (sparring in BJJ) can test your stamina. Many beginners wonder if they’ll ever “get it.” The short answer is yes, you can learn it. But you need to be ready for a learning curve, especially during your first few months.
Challenges of learning Brazilian jiu jitsu
Complex techniques in BJJBJJ is famous for its variety of moves. You’ll learn sweeps, submissions, escapes, and transitions. Each technique involves many steps, and small tweaks can change your success rate. It’s like learning a language with tons of vocabulary. The real challenge is not just memorizing moves, but applying the right one at the right time during a live roll. |
|
 |
Physical demands of BJJ trainingDon’t worry, you don’t need to be an athlete to start. But be prepared to move. BJJ classes often include warm-ups like shrimping (a hip-escape drill) and bridging. You’ll also be drilling techniques and live-sparring. Over time, your endurance and strength will build up naturally. You might feel sore in new places at first, but that’s part of the adventure. |
Mental challenges in learning BJJIn addition to the physical side, BJJ tests your mind. You’ll have to remain calm under pressure when someone is trying to pass your guard (a defensive position on your back). You also need to learn problem-solving on the fly, recognizing openings and adjusting your technique. Some days, it can feel like a mental chess match. But as you practice, you’ll find your confidence grows with every small win on the mat. |
|
Check Out Our Best Selling Product
🔥 SAVE UPTO 50% - Limited Time Offer
✅ 30 Days Return & Refund Policy
🚚 Free Worldwide Shipping
Choosing Between Gi and No-Gi BJJ
When you start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you’ll notice two main training styles: gi and no-gi. Both are BJJ, but they feel different and offer unique experiences. Understanding the differences can help you pick classes that suit your goals or decide to try both.
What is Gi BJJ?
In gi training, you wear a traditional uniform called a gi, which includes a jacket, pants, and belt. The gi allows you to grab your opponent’s collar, sleeves, or pants, adding a layer of strategy. It emphasizes precise technique and leverage, as grips can slow down the pace and create opportunities for sweeps or submissions. Gi classes often feel like a chess game, rewarding patience and control.
What is No-Gi BJJ?
No-gi training swaps the gi for shorts, a rash guard, or tight-fitting athletic wear. Without the gi’s grips, no-gi relies more on speed, athleticism, and body control. It feels faster and more fluid, similar to wrestling. No-gi is popular for those interested in mixed martial arts (MMA) or self-defense, as it mimics real-world scenarios where opponents aren’t wearing a gi.
Which Should You Choose?
As a beginner, you don’t have to pick one forever. Gi training builds a strong technical foundation, which can make no-gi easier later. No-gi might appeal if you prefer a faster pace or want a less formal vibe. Many gyms offer both, so try a few classes of each to see what clicks. Ask your instructor for advice—they’ll know what fits your style and goals.
Tips For Beginners To Learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
 |
Find a good BJJ gym: Look for a gym (often called an academy) with a supportive community and qualified instructors. Watch a class or take a trial lesson to see if the atmosphere is friendly. A welcoming place will make your entire experience more enjoyable. |
Example: When visiting a gym, check if the instructor explains techniques clearly and if students help each other during drills. For instance, a good sign is seeing a higher belt patiently guiding a beginner through a move like an armbar during a trial class. If the gym offers a free intro session, try it to feel the vibe—some academies even have beginner-only classes to ease you in.
Start with basic BJJ techniques: Focus on fundamental positions and escapes. Master keeping your guard, passing your opponent’s guard, and protecting against common submissions. These are your building blocks, so get comfortable with them before diving into more advanced moves.
Example: Start by practicing a basic closed guard, where you lock your ankles behind your partner’s back to control their posture. Learn a simple escape like the “upa” to get out from under someone pinning you in mount. Or, work on defending a guillotine choke by tucking your chin and turning your head. These foundational moves will help you feel more confident in your first rolls.
Practice consistently: Think of BJJ like learning a musical instrument. You won’t master it if you only practice once a month. Aim for at least two or three classes a week, if you can. Regular training helps you retain techniques and improves muscle memory.
Example: If you’re learning a hip-escape (shrimping), attending class twice a week lets you drill it enough to feel natural. For instance, you might notice after a month of consistent classes that you can shrimp away from a bad position without thinking, compared to struggling with it after sporadic attendance. Even a short 10-minute home drill, like practicing bridges, can reinforce what you learn.
Learn to tap early: “Tapping out” (physically or verbally signaling you give up) is how you avoid injury when your partner applies a submission. Tapping shows you respect your limits. It’s not a sign of defeat, but a safe way to let your partner know you need a break from the pressure.
Example: If your partner locks in a kimura (a shoulder submission) during a roll, tap on their body or the mat as soon as you feel discomfort—don’t wait for pain. For instance, a beginner might tap when their arm feels stretched in an armbar, signaling their partner to release immediately. This keeps you safe and builds trust with your training partners.
|
Ask questions and seek feedback: If you’re unsure about a move, ask your instructor or teammates. They’ve been in your spot and know how confusing it can feel at first. Feedback accelerates your improvement, and you’ll notice small tips can make a big difference. Example: After drilling a sweep like the scissor sweep, ask your instructor, “Am I placing my knee correctly to block their hip?” They might point out a small adjustment, like shifting your angle, that makes the move work better. Or, during a roll, ask a teammate why you keep getting stuck in side control—they could suggest keeping your elbows tighter to your body. |
|
Stay patient and persistent: Don’t rush your progress. BJJ skills develop at a unique pace for everyone. Errors happen. Plateaus happen. Stick with it. Each class, you’ll add another puzzle piece that eventually fits together.
Example: You might struggle for weeks to escape side control, feeling pinned every time. Keep showing up, and one day, you’ll successfully bridge and shrimp to regain guard, realizing the technique is clicking. Or, after months of practice, you might land a basic triangle choke on a partner, a small win that shows your persistence is paying off.
How long does it take to get good at BJJ?
BJJ has a belt system: white, blue, purple, brown, then black. It can take anywhere from 8 to 15 years (or more) to reach black belt. That sounds long, but the journey is part of the fun. Each belt represents serious growth and helps you track your development.
Factors that speed up BJJ learning
- Consistent attendance: Stick to a regular schedule
- Attitude: Stay open to critiques and new techniques
- Drilling: Repetition cements moves in muscle memory
- Good instruction: Experienced coaches and helpful team
Everyone’s path is different. Some people learn quickly, others prefer a slower pace. Both are perfectly fine.
Shoyoroll Feature Products
🔥 SAVE UPTO 50%
✅ 30 Days Return & Refund
🚚 Free Worldwide Shipping
🔥 SAVE UPTO 50%
✅ 30 Days Return & Refund
🚚 Free Worldwide Shipping
🔥 SAVE UPTO 50%
✅ 30 Days Return & Refund
🚚 Free Worldwide Shipping
Final Words: Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Hard to Learn
Brazilian jiu jitsu can feel challenging, but that challenge is part of what makes it so rewarding. You’ll gain discipline, practical self-defense, and a welcoming community cheering you on. Stay patient, keep practicing basic moves, and remember every black belt was once a beginner who had doubts. Stick around, ask questions, and enjoy the journey. Before you know it, you’ll notice real progress, both on the mats and in your everyday life.
