Whether you’re grinding through your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class, preparing for an amateur MMA fight, or showing up to Muay Thai class after work, one truth holds across all disciplines: your gear matters.

The right combat gear isn’t just about looking good—although, let’s be honest, it helps. It’s about performance, protection, and progression. At Combat Athlete Gear, we know what it’s like to bleed, sweat, and claw for every inch of improvement. That’s why this guide breaks down exactly how to choose fightwear and training apparel that works as hard as you do.

Why Combat-Specific Gear Matters

Combat sports are demanding—mentally, physically, and emotionally. Generic gym wear can’t hold up to the grind of grappling, striking, or clinch work. Whether you’re a white belt or a pro, high-performance gear enhances your training by:

• Preventing injuries through compression and reinforced construction
• Regulating body temperature during intense rolls or sparring rounds
• Supporting your movement with four-way stretch and sweat-wicking materials
• Helping with hygiene by reducing mat burn and exposure to bacteria

Rash Guards: More Than a Shirt

Keywords: rash guard for BJJ, compression shirt for MMA

A quality rash guard is the foundation of any combat athlete’s wardrobe. It protects your skin, regulates sweat, and prevents mat burns—all while supporting muscle engagement.

What to Look For:

• Material: A polyester/spandex blend provides durability and stretch
• Fit: Should be snug but not restrictive (think second skin, not sausage casing)
• Seams: Flatlock stitching reduces chafing
• Design: Sublimated graphics won’t peel or crack under pressure

Combat Athlete Gear Rash Guards are built to survive the most grueling rolls, while keeping you dry, clean, and sharp. Whether you’re in no-gi class or layering under your gi, it’s the one piece you can’t skip.

Fight Shorts: Built for Battle

Keywords: best MMA shorts, grappling shorts, Muay Thai fightwear

Not all shorts are created equal. Basketball shorts? Too baggy. Board shorts? Too stiff. Combat sports require specialized shorts that let you kick, shoot, and scramble without restriction.

What to Look For:

• Cut: A short cut with side slits allows for maximum mobility
• Waistband: Secure, adjustable, and won’t shift mid-round
• Closure: Velcro and drawstring combo = no wardrobe malfunctions
• Fabric: Lightweight, tear-resistant, and sweat-repellent

Combat Athlete Gear’s fight shorts are engineered for versatility—from Muay Thai pad work to no-gi grappling. Get the freedom to move and the toughness to grind.

Spats and Compression Pants: The Underestimated Weapon

Keywords: BJJ spats, MMA compression pants, no-gi base layer

Wearing spats isn’t just about looking like a pro. These compression pants serve a real purpose in performance and recovery.

Benefits of Spats:

• Muscle Support: Reduces vibration and fatigue
• Hygiene: Creates a barrier from mat grime and staph risks
• Recovery: Compression helps reduce DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness)
• Layering: Can be worn solo or under shorts for full coverage

Our spats are made for the mat. They breathe, stretch, and stay put—no rolling waistband, no sagging knees. Just power where you need it.

Training Tees and Hoodies: Outside the Gym, Still On the Grind

Keywords: MMA streetwear, combat athlete lifestyle apparel

Combat athletes don’t shut it off when they leave the gym. The lifestyle follows you. That’s why we design street-ready apparel with the same intensity and detail as our performance gear.

From moisture-wicking tees that handle the heat, to heavyweight hoodies that let you rep the grind on rest days, we make gear that goes from mat to meet-up without missing a beat.

Fit, Function & Feel: How to Size It Right

Every body is different. That’s why we offer a Combat Fit Guide for all our products. But in general:

• Rash guards and spats should fit snug to maximize compression benefits
• Shorts should allow full range of motion without excess fabric
• Tees and hoodies can be worn true to size or slightly oversized, depending on preference

If you’re between sizes, our support team is made up of real fighters (not bots). Reach out—we’ll make sure you get the right fit, guaranteed.

How to Care for Your Combat Gear

Combat gear takes a beating. Keep it alive with these simple tips:

• Wash after every use—no exceptions. Combat sports are a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Cold wash, air dry: Heat breaks down compression fabric over time.
• No bleach, no fabric softener: These chemicals wreck performance fibers.
• Flip it inside out before washing to preserve graphics and stitching.

Taking care of your gear = taking care of your teammates and your mat space. Be that training partner everyone wants.

Final Word: Gear Is the Tool, Not the Crutch

Look—we get it. You can’t buy toughness. No rash guard or fight shorts will win you the belt. But the right gear helps you train harder, longer, and safer—and that’s where growth happens.

At Combat Athlete Gear, we don’t just make apparel—we craft armor for the daily fight. Whether it’s your first week in a garage gym or you’re prepping for an amateur bout, we’ve got your back.

Shop the Look, Join the Movement

Ready to level up your gear game? Browse our collections:

• Shop Rash Guards
• Explore Fight Shorts
• Check Out Compression Wear

And follow us on Instagram @CombatAthleteGear to see how real warriors rep the brand.

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The post How to Choose the Right Combat Gear: A Complete Guide for MMA, BJJ & Striking Athletes appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.

With BJJ becoming one of the fastest-growing combat sports and martial arts in the world, find out why so many people choose the Elite Sports BJJ Gi.

Elite Sports BJJ Gi

Highlights/Pros of the Elite Sports BJJ Gi:

1. Lightweight: One of the major highlights of the Elite Sports BJJ Gi is how light it is. Lightweight Gis are great to wear for training since they don’t get too warm in the training room. Another benefit of having a lightweight Gi is the fact that it dries quickly after washing it. You just have to hang up your Gi to dry after washing it cold in your washing machine.
2. Affordable: In a world where there are Gis for sale for more than $300, the Elite Sports BJJ Gi sells for $59.99 before tax. This Gi won’t break your wallet and you shouldn’t have to skip any meals to get this Gi. This Gi also comes with a free white belt so it’s perfect if you’re looking to begin your Jiu Jitsu journey. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu should be something that adds to your life so you shouldn’t be going broke as you start your training.
3. Durable: The design of the Elite Sports BJJ Gi can hold up for a couple of years for someone who trains 2-3 times per week. One of the reasons why it’s durable is the Elite Sports BJJ Gi allows for a full range of motion. It can handle a variety of movements from Judo throws to mounted triangles. Gis that don’t allow for a full range of motion tends to experience more wear and tear.
4. Comfortable: Doing Jiu-Jitsu in an uncomfortable Gi is no fun. People who buy the Elite Sports BJJ Gi find the Gi comfortable to wear and to train in. They don’t hesitate to use it in their training sessions all year long. The design of the Gi fits well with most body types and does not negatively affect your drilling or live rolls.

CONS of the Elite Sports BJJ GI:

1. May not be competition-legal for some tournaments: Some tournaments like IBJJF have very strict rules regarding the weight of the GI you’re using and the length of your sleeves and pant legs. There’s a chance that the Elite Sports BJJ Gi is not approved by IBJJF if it doesn’t fit quite right on your body.
2. Some shrinking issues: Not all but some Elite Sports BJJ Gis shrink after several washes. The best thing to do is wash the Gi in cold water and then allow it to air dry. As you wear it over time, the Gi will be able to fit your body better.
3. Gi pants will not always last as long as the Gi top: Depending on your training style, the part that covers the knees can wear out quickly. You may need to buy a separate pair of pants individually as the Elite Sports BJJ Gi can wear out. However, if you don’t do a lot of kneeling techniques such as kneecut passing, you can prolong the life of the Elite Sports BJJ Gi pants.

Real Elite BJJ Gi Reviews:

1. “This is a solid gi at an affordable price” – Mari R.
2. “…this Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gi has exceeded my expectations in terms of quality and fabric.” – Trent Rein
3. “I have been training BJJ for 20 years and have come across many Gis during this period of time. I have trained with many different Gis and the Elite Sports BJJ Gi is an excellent Gi. It is durable and it allows for great range of motion. The Gi’s design and fit are exceptional.” – Clary Ortiz
4. “…I was impressed with how light it is. I can’t wait to wear it towards all seasons, specially on warm days. Well done Elite!” – Sebastian Barrera

The Elite Sports BJJ Gi is a trusted Gi for the grappling hobbyist. It’s affordable, comfortable, and durable if you’re looking for a Gi you can trust on the mats.

Order the Elite Sports BJJ Gi today!

The post Elite sports bjj gi review appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.

Now let’s get on with the article that talks about what you want to learn more about regarding the reasons you’d want to get into combat sports training.

What constitutes a combat sport?

Before we dive into the benefits of combat sports training, let’s cover what a combat sport is. Not everyone is familiar with the world of combat sports so going over the basics helps.

Combat sports are typically sports with a martial arts background that have a ruleset tailored towards organized competition. This usually involves one-on-one combat according to Wikipedia. Some of the combat sports you may have heard of include Boxing, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, Savate, and Greco-Roman Wrestling. The winner is typically determined by one of the following depending on the ruleset: points, knockouts, technical knockouts, and submissions.

5 reasons why you need to begin combat sports training in 2024

Now that you have a better understanding of what combat sports is, let’s go over your why. There are extremely chill hobbies like aquascaping and completing jigsaw puzzles. And then there are more intense hobbies that have a degree of risk involved like combat sports. But don’t let the risk stop you. Here are 5 reasons why you need combat sports training in your goals for the new year.

Reason 1: you want to be in Better physical health

Making combat sports a part of your life is a great way to get in great physical shape. It’s tough to improve as a combat sports athlete when you’re not taking care of your physical health. As you make combat sports a part of your life, you’ll have a greater desire to do the simple things like drink water, eat nutritious food, and get enough sleep.

Over time, you’ll feel yourself get stronger. Your flexibility will improve along with other key attributes of fighting like agility, coordination, and footwork.

Reason 2: Improved mental health is a goal of yours

One thing you’ll find about the combat sports world is how many participants believe in the inner peace they find from training. There’s something meditative about working on your martial arts skills. Drills and sparring can often be an experience where one finds themselves in the zone.

Grappling and striking provide a healthy outlet for people to push themselves and express their inner feelings in a way they typically cannot. You can push yourself in every class to be better than the day before. As you improve, your confidence will increase. This is a natural result of consistent training and pressure testing which you’ll greatly benefit from.

Reason 3: you seek a Greater ability to problem-solve

A major benefit of learning new skills is your brain’s ability to make new neurological connections. As a result, your ability to problem-solve in your everyday life improves. Combat sports condition your brain to deal with problems that are literally standing right in front of you. There’s something about dealing with an opponent looking to break you down and you stepping up to the occasion.

Reason 4: New friends and community is something you’re searching for

Something every long-time martial artist can agree on is the friends you make through combat sports training are some of the best friends you’ll ever have. There’s something about the bond that forms between you and others you do difficult things with. Pushing yourself and your teammates to make it through a workout or a competition creates memories for you all to share with each other. It’s a huge part of what makes combat sports special.

Reason 5: you need a Healthy outlet for emotions

Combat sports are a safe place to express your feelings of frustration. Everyone needs a healthy way to unwind after a long day at work. While combat sports aren’t therapy, they can be therapeutic for you due to the exercise component. Exercise helps you improve your mental health by boosting your mood and helping you think more clearly.

What type of gear do you need to get started in combat sports?

Why do we bother answering this question about gear needed for combat sports? This is because most people make an excuse saying they don’t know what to wear. This quick list helps take away excuses from you.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gear

Let’s begin with one of the more popular grappling arts which is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. If you’re looking to do Gi classes, here’s a quick list of Gis for you to choose from:

Elite Sports BJJ Gi for Men: This Gi is a classic budget-friendly choice. It’s a comfortable fit and is a great option for hobbyists.

Elite Sports Ultra-Light Women’s BJJ Gi: These Gis are designed specifically for women. They’re durable, comfortable, and can handle training and competition.

Boxing Gear

Boxing is a popular combat sport that many choose to do for fitness reasons and to develop self-defense skills. Below are items you can count on as you begin your boxing journey.

Everlast Elite Pro Style Training Gloves, Black 16-oz: This is a great pair of boxing gloves for less than $50. It won’t break the bank and will help you gain the momentum you need to learn the sweet science.

Hayabusa S4 Boxing Gloves for Men & Women: This pair of gloves costs more than the gloves previously mentioned but they’re known for premium protection and comfort. Its durability and fit are attributes you’ll love.

Start training and experience the reasons why people do combat sports!

Now that you have some key motivations in mind, it’s time to begin your combat sports journey. Stay posted for future blog posts on helping you be the best combat athlete you can be.

The post 5 reasons why you need to begin combat sports training in 2024 appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.

Physical demands of BJJ

As mentioned before, BJJ is tough on your body and your mind. Pursuing perfection in the art of BJJ means that you’ll also have to be willing to put your body in tough spots that’ll test your stamina, flexibility, strength, explosiveness, and agility.

One of the reasons why BJJ is challenging is you’re constantly shifting between pulling and pushing movements. During a regular roll, your body is dealing with time under tension. There’s a good chance you’re also working muscle groups you don’t normally test in the weight room and in other sports. Here are some of the key physical demands of BJJ:

• Cardiovascular endurance: BJJ is a high-intensity activity that requires a lot of stamina. Matches can last anywhere from a few minutes to 20 minutes or more, and require constant movement and high levels of physical exertion. You have to be able to maintain a constant workrate while staying focused.
• Muscular endurance: BJJ requires a lot of muscular endurance, particularly in the core, legs, and arms. Practitioners need to be able to maintain their strength and power over extended periods of time.
• Strength: BJJ requires a lot of strength, particularly in the upper body, core, and legs. Practitioners need to be able to use their strength to control their opponents and execute techniques effectively.
• Flexibility: BJJ requires a lot of flexibility, particularly in the hips and back. Practitioners need to be able to perform a range of techniques that involve twisting, bending, and stretching.
• Coordination and agility: BJJ requires a lot of coordination and agility, particularly when performing takedowns, sweeps, and submissions. Practitioners need to be able to move quickly and smoothly on the ground and in the air.
• Balance and body awareness: BJJ requires a lot of balance and body awareness, particularly when grappling on the ground. Practitioners need to be able to control their body position and weight distribution to execute techniques effectively.

Jiu Jitsu movements and their corresponding muscle groups

Here’s a quick list of common Brazilian Jiu Jitsu movements and the muscle groups that are utilized in each movement. It’s important to be familiar with these movements so you can move more efficiently when you’re putting jiu jitsu to work for you.

Shrimps

Shrimping is a fundamental movement in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that is used to create space between you and your opponent. It involves a lateral hip escape and can be used to escape from the bottom of a side control position, for example. The following muscle groups are used when performing the shrimp movement:

1. Core muscles: The core muscles are engaged throughout the shrimp movement, as they help stabilize the body and transfer force between the upper and lower body.
2. Glutes and hip muscles: The glutes and hip muscles are heavily involved in the lateral hip escape of the shrimp movement. These muscles are responsible for driving the hips up and away from the opponent.
3. Quadriceps and hamstring muscles: The quadriceps and hamstring muscles are used to push off the ground and generate the initial momentum for the shrimp movement.
4. Adductor muscles: The adductor muscles, located in the inner thigh, are used to bring the legs together and maintain a tight guard.
5. Calf muscles: The calf muscles are used to push off the ground and generate additional momentum during the shrimp movement.

Shrimping in BJJ is a full-body movement that requires a combination of strength, flexibility, and coordination. Regular practice of this movement can help improve overall physical fitness and performance in the gentle art.

Bridges

Bridging is another fundamental movement in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that is used to create space between you and your opponent. It involves lifting the hips off the ground and pushing the body up and back. The following muscle groups are used when performing the bridge movement:

1. Glutes and hip muscles: The glutes and hip muscles are heavily involved in the bridge movement. These muscles are responsible for driving the hips up and away from the ground.
2. Hamstring muscles: The hamstring muscles are used to extend the hips and push the body up off the ground.
3. Core muscles: The core muscles are engaged throughout the bridge movement, as they help stabilize the body and transfer force between the upper and lower body.
4. Back muscles: The back muscles are also involved in the bridge movement, particularly the erector spinae muscles, which help extend the spine and lift the body off the ground.
5. Shoulder muscles: The shoulder muscles are used to help stabilize the upper body during the bridge movement and to support the weight of the body.

Overall, the bridge movement in BJJ is a full-body movement that requires a combination of strength, flexibility, and coordination. Regular practice of this movement can help improve overall physical fitness and performance in this effective combat sport/martial art.

Breakfalls

Breakfalling is an essential skill in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu used to protect oneself from being injured when thrown or taken down. It involves landing safely on the ground while minimizing the impact on the body. The following muscle groups are used when performing breakfalling in BJJ:

1. Core muscles: The core muscles are engaged during breakfalling to help stabilize the body and protect the spine.
2. Back muscles: The back muscles, including the erector spinae, help control the movement of the upper body during the fall and protect the spine.
3. Shoulder muscles: The shoulder muscles are used to help absorb the impact of the fall and protect the arms and shoulders.
4. Hip muscles: The hip muscles are involved in controlling the movement of the legs during the fall and helping to absorb the impact.
5. Leg muscles: The leg muscles are used to control the landing and absorb the impact of the fall.

Overall, breakfalling in BJJ requires the coordination of multiple muscle groups to execute the technique safely and effectively. Practicing breakfalling regularly can help improve overall physical fitness and prevent injuries when training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Grips

Gripping is an essential component of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, as it enables practitioners to control their opponents and execute techniques. The following muscle groups are used when gripping in BJJ:

1. Forearm muscles: The muscles of the forearm, including the wrist flexors and extensors, are heavily involved in gripping in BJJ. These muscles help generate the force needed to hold onto an opponent’s gi or limb.
2. Hand muscles: The muscles of the hand, including the intrinsic muscles and finger flexors, are used to grip and control an opponent’s gi or limb.
3. Shoulder muscles: The shoulder muscles are used to help stabilize the upper body when gripping an opponent and to generate force when pulling or pushing.
4. Back muscles: The back muscles, including the latissimus dorsi and trapezius muscles, are involved in pulling and maintaining a strong grip on an opponent’s gi or limb.
5. Core muscles: The core muscles are engaged during gripping to help stabilize the body and transfer force between the upper and lower body.

Gripping in BJJ requires a combination of strength, endurance, and coordination from the muscles of the forearms, hands, shoulders, back, and core. Regular grip training can help improve grip strength and endurance, which can lead to better performance in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Here’s the Combat Athlete Gear BJJ conditioning plan

Before beginning a conditioning plan, consult with your physician to ensure you’re able to begin training regularly. Combat Athlete Gear is not a medical/health company so consulting with a certified medical doctor will help you have the most success. BJJ conditioning is not easy and requires time, energy, and dedication. Here’s how to get started:

1. Assess your current state and set goals: Where are you really in terms of your skill level and physical conditioning? If you’re lacking in skill then set measurable goals that contribute to your success i.e. compete in 3 tournaments in 12 months, drill 50 single leg takedowns each week for 90 days. The same can be done with improving your strength and conditioning. You can set goals that help you have better mobility and even have greater anaerobic capacity.
2. Set up a consistent BJJ training regimen: Consistent training is a proven way to step up your BJJ game. Figure out a sustainable training regimen that works for you. For some, training 2x per week makes the most sense so do that if that’s what’s best for you and your needs.
3. Set up a consistent strength training regimen: Similar to your BJJ training regimen, it’s vital that you have a reliable strength training regimen. Gains are made through regular hard work. You don’t accidentally get stronger. Be sure to include exercises that involve compound movements such as squats and lat pull downs. BJJ involves multiple muscle groups working together so plan your strength training accordingly.
4. Determine your food goals/habits: Proper nutrition is necessary to fueling your mind and body. The right foods can help you feel energetic, prevent injuries, and speed up recovery from tough workouts. Stay hydrated and eat nutrient dense foods you genuinely enjoy.
5. Set a sustainable sleep schedule: Sleep is underrated! Some of the benefits of getting enough sleep include getting sick less often, lowering the risk of heart diseases, improved problem solving abilities, injury prevention, and better performance in the gym. You also are able to recover properly from training. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. If possible, work naps into your daily schedule as they will help you feel refreshed and mentally sharp when drilling and conditioning.
6. Include 2 accountability partners: We recommend working with one of your coaches and one of your training partners to help you stay on schedule. Accountability partners help you be more resilient since you’re not relying just on your on willpower. You’re utilizing the power of your community. Including a coach is a great option is your coach cares about your progress and understands what you need to do to improve your jiu jitsu skill set. Involving a training partner will help you feel encouraged and motivated to push through the tough training sessions.

Get in shape for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu starting today!

Now that you have a better idea of how to set goals and game plan Brazilian Jiu Jitsu conditioning success, start today! As you’ve learned from this blog post, Jiu Jitsu requires the use of different muscle groups. You need to be strong in all areas of your body to be the best grappler you can be and also prevent injuries.

Do you have any questions about how to get started? Let us know in the comments below!

The post BJJ Conditioning: Everything you need to know to be in shape for jiu jitsu appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.

We’ll start with the history of Brazilian Jitsu then make our way to gym criteria. Understanding the roots of BJJ will help you have a better understanding the culture and ideology of the art.

What is the history of BJJ?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s roots go as far back as the 1900s in Brazil. Its elements of taking a fight to the ground, pins, and submissions are found in older combat arts like judo and Japanese jujutsu. Kodokan judo made its way to Brazil thanks Mitsuyo Maeda who initially took Carlos Gracie under his tutelage. This led to other Gracie family members including Helio learning different throws, takedowns, escapes, and submissions. These significantly effective skillsets are the foundation for what we know as BJJ today.

In 1993, BJJ began to grow in popularity on a global scale thanks to UFC 1 where Royce Gracie won the entire tournament via submission. See below for footage of Royce Gracie vs. Gerard Gordeau. Royce’s success led to more interest in BJJ due to its obvious effectiveness in the octagon.

Famous BJJ fighters in the UFC

Many BJJ fighters have found success in the UFC. Here’s a quick list of notable MMA competitors with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as their base skill:

• Demian Maia
• Mackenzie Dern
• Nate Diaz
• Charles Oliveira
• Amanda Nunes
• Brian Ortega

Each fighter on this list has had success on the biggest stages of BJJ and also MMA. Have you heard of any of these fighters before? Let us know in the comments below!

What are the health benefits of BJJ?

There are multiple health benefits to learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. While it is primarily a self-defense skillset, becoming a BJJ practitioner enables you to be a healthier individual. Check out this list of several ways you can physically improve thanks to BJJ:

• Stronger bones, muscles, and ligaments
• Better cardio
• More flexibility
• Less stressed
• Improved coordination

Now that you have a better idea of what BJJ can do for you, let’s dive into how to choose the right BJJ gym for you.

How to find the right BJJ gym for you

Selecting the best BJJ gym for you comes down to several factors such as location and the focus of the gym. Here’s a list that gives you criteria to consider when you want to know how to find the right BJJ gym for you:

1. Location: You have to know how far you’re willing to drive. Depending on where you live, the nearest BJJ gym to you could be 5 minutes or more than 45 minutes away. We recommend using Google Maps to do a quick search of BJJ gyms in the area.
2. Schedule: Do some research to figure out if the gym you’re interested in has a class schedule that works with your schedule. You will also need to factor in drive time to the gym from wherever you’ll be coming from.
3. Price: It’s not uncommon for BJJ gym pricing to range anywhere from $100/month to $200/month. Some BJJ gyms will also have punch passes so you can pay for classes upfront and use them whenever you’re able to train. Factor in what BJJ will you cost you each month with your overall monthly budget. This will tell you if you need to cut back spending in other areas of your life to make training a reality.
4. Experience level of the coach/professor: Pay attention to the rank and overall experience level of the person teaching classes. Teachers vary in levels of experience. One gym down the road from you might have an instructor who is a young purple belt with IBJJF medals under his/her belt. Another gym 20 minutes away may have a 3rd-degree blackbelt leading each class. Do some research to figure out who you’re interested in learning from.
5. Teaching/Coaching style: How an instructor teaches/coaches really matters. Some classes are very traditional with one person leading everything from warmups to the instructional/drilling portion of class. These traditional-style gyms also have a structure to their curriculum. Other gyms may have classes that are less formal with no clear curriculum. Gyms with less structure tend to have teachers who ask, “So what do you guys want to learn today?”.
6. Teammates: Look around the mat and see who is training. Do you only have fit adults in their early 20s? Are your classes most composed of men or do you have a wide range of body types? Does the gym you want to train at have several active competitors? Understanding the demographics of the gym will help you know if it’s the right gym for you.
7. Gym focus: Another factor that will affect the gym you choose is the focus of the gym. Some gyms spend most of their time drilling self-defense techniques. Other gyms may only prioritize BJJ competition techniques and strategies. Knowing which gym is right for you comes down to knowing what your goals are with BJJ.

Try out some Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes

Now that you’ve made a list of different BJJ schools in your area, it’s time to do some trial classes. Some gyms may allow you to test out one free class. Other gyms will give you a week of free classes. We highly recommend you take up these gyms on their offer before signing up. This is a great opportunity to get a feel for gym culture and other factors that will help you make an informed decision.

Take some insights from Jocko Willink!

It’s ok if you’d rather listen to insights from someone else on how to choose the right BJJ gym for you. Here’s a podcast bit from Jocko Willink on how to choose a good Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school for you:

Go train!

Now that you have clear criteria, find a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym and start training! Use the insights you’ve just gained to begin reaping the benefits of BJJ.

The post How to find the right BJJ gym for you appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.

At its core, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is centered around self-defense that comes with high demands on your mind and body. One of the best ways to improve your abilities as a BJJ practitioner is to take your physical conditioning to the next level. BJJ is unique in a sense that constantly engages muscles throughout your entire body. It’s tough on your body. Because of this, you’ll need to improve your physical conditioning to be in shape whether you’re a competitive fighter or just want to learn a new skill.

Before we go over 5 ways to improve your physical conditioning, we will cover what Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is as well as a bit of its history. We will then share the 5 physical conditioning tips to help you be the best version of yourself.

What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu a fighting system that places a major emphasis on ground fighting techniques. BJJ’s roots go back to the early 1900s in Brazil where techniques and strategies from judo and Japanese jujutsu influenced Helio Gracie’s philosophy focused on practical martial art. Helio’s developments led to the ability for BJJ practitioners to survive and possibly neutralize a stronger, more aggressive opponent through technique and leverage.

Gyms offering BJJ classes will teach various techniques such as takedowns, pins, escapes, and submissions like joint locks and chokes. BJJ provides effective tools for self-defense as well as chances for competition as well. Competition gives BJJ athletes the opportunity to test their knowledge and abilities in high-pressure scenarios against a full resisting opponent.

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was a major platform for the initial explosion in growth for BJJ as Royce Gracie showed exceptional dominance when lined toe to toe with other fighting styles. Here’s a quick video showing Royce Gracie in action against Ken Shamrock:

Gi and no gi

There are two general categories for BJJ: Gi and no gi. Gi is the traditional BJJ uniform complete with a belt. No gi means there isn’t a gi in the style. No gi practitioners typically wear spats, shorts, t-shirts, and rash guards. The rulesets can vary as well since gis make it easy to strangle opponents with lapels and also control opponents with grips.

Here’s a video showing highlights of ADCC which is no gi:

To give you a better idea of what a BJJ gi match can look like, here’s a video of IBJJF highlights:

Physical conditioning tips for BJJ practitioners

BJJ tests you in different ways. There are times when you’re channeling your explosiveness and other times where you’re having to scale back your output levels and breathe. To be at your best, it’s vital that you invest in your physical conditioning. Being in great shape is freeing because you’re able to focus more on your technique and be mentally present. You’re not in panic mode because you’re not out of breath just trying to do basic movements. Here are 5 tips you can add today to your training regimen.

1. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water: Proper hydration leads to multiple benefits including helping your body get rid of waste and also keeping you mentally sharp. With proper hydration, you’re also less likely to experience cramping. You’ll be able to put yourself in a position to train for longer periods of time and bounce back quickly.
2. Consistently eat nutritious foods: You can’t be at your best without the right fuel. Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Your body needs adequate calories to move in all the different ways that you’ll need to move your body in BJJ. It’s important that you plan to eat enough healthy foods throughout the day whether you’re training once a day or every other day.
3. Know who you can increase training intensity with and when: Not all of training partners in your gym/academy will be able to physically push their limits with every roll. The same goes for you due to your limitations. You may be injured or coming back from an injury which will affect your abilities on the mats. Your training partners may be in a similar scenario as well.
4. Cross-train whenever possible: There are different ways you can cross-train in order to strengthen your body, stay healthy, and prevent injuries. You can maximize gains by also doing other activities that add to your overall Brazilian Jiu Jitsu game. Complimentary sports you can add if it works for you include judo and wrestling. You can also add triathlons as well to help you be in great physical shape. Cross-training helps you build other muscle groups that you don’t always engage in BJJ.
5. Implement a conditioning program that addresses both aerobic and anaerobic demands: There are times where a BJJ training session has similar cardio demands as a long swim session. There are also times where you need to be quick and explosive. The be at your best, follow a conditioning program that strengthens both aspect your overall fitness. It’s in your best interest to do things that make you stronger while increasing overall lung capacity.

All of the tips listed above will help you be a better BJJ practitioner. The level of your physical conditioning will empower you to be the best you can be every training session and every time you compete. If you feel like you’re struggling and you’re always catching your breath, ask yourself which of the tips above are you missing. You can also reflect on areas you need to improve on. As you take steps to be better, you’ll start to notice improvements in your performance over time.

Common questions about BJJ

Here’s a quick list of questions and answers regarding Brazilian Jiu Jitsu:

Q: Can BJJ help me lose weight?

A: Yes, BJJ can help you lose weight. BJJ is very physical in nature. As a result, people who train often leave the mats sweaty and happy after constantly exerting physical energy over the course of 60 minutes or more.

Q: Is BJJ effective in self-defense?

A: Yes, BJJ teaches people how to avoid altercations, control distance, take a fight to the ground, and neutralize/control an opponent in a one-on-one hand-to-hand combat scenario. You also experience an increase in self-confidence

Q: Can I still learn BJJ if I have no prior martial arts experience?

A: Yes, you can learn BJJ without any martial arts experience. You can acquire the skills you need in BJJ with consistent training and class attendance.

Q: Can BJJ be used in MMA?

A: Yes, many of the best MMA fighters have a strong BJJ background such as BJ Penn, Mackenzie Dern, Demaian Maia, Anderson Silva, and Nate Diaz.

Go train!

Now that you have real tips on how to improve your BJJ game, start training! It doesn’t matter if you’re a blue belt who hasn’t trained in years or have never been a white belt. This is your sign to begin your journey in BJJ or even restart your journey as a jiujiteiro.

Finding a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gym is fairly easy to do. We recommend doing a quick Google Maps search of BJJ gyms near you. You’ll see several results on a list identifying gyms that are close to you. After you’ve selected 3 gyms you’re willing to try, sign up for trial classes to test them out. This will give you an opportunity to test out different gyms to see if you like the environment and teaching styles. After you’ve tested out different brands, decide on which gym is right for you and start training!

The post 5 ways to improve your physical conditioning for BJJ appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.

If you’re reading this Combat Athlete Gear article, you want to learn more about the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling system that teaches someone to survive and possibly defeat a bigger, stronger, more aggressive opponent. BJJ practitioners learn how to take a fight to the ground and neutralize an attacker through dominant positioning and offensive attacks such as joint locks and strangles. Due to its nature and type of techniques, BJJ can be classified as ground fighting, submission grappling, and grappling.

After we go over a brief history of BJJ, we will answer some of the most common questions that are asked regarding BJJ.

History of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Much of the development and creation of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is credited to the Gracie family in Brazil in the early 1900s. Its roots go back to kodokan judo, Japanese jujutsu, and wrestling as a result of the influences and training experienced by Helio Gracie and Carlos Gracie. Both Gracies learned traditional Japanese martial arts from Mitsuyo Maeda who received his training from judo’s founder, Kano Jigoro.

Carlos Gracie began learning from Maeda in 1917. Years later, Helio began training as well and ended up placing a greater emphasis on ground fighting and leverage. As time passed, BJJ diverged even more from judo due to its wider range of joint locks and time spent fighting on the ground (newaza). For example, judo only allows for elbow attacks and strangles in competition when the fight goes to the ground.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu began spread outside of Brazil at a faster rate when Carley Gracie moved to the USA in 1972. In 1978, Rorion Gracie followed and co-founded the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) which has reached a global scale today. BJJ really caught the attention of the martial arts world with Royce Gracie winning the 1st, 2nd, and 4th Ultimate Fighting Championships.

Today, there are BJJ gyms all around the world. BJJ is also used by military groups and law enforcement due to its effectiveness in self-defense. Now that we’ve covered the history of BJJ, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about the combat sport.

Can Brazilian Jiu Jitsu help me with my fitness goals?

Training in BJJ is a great way to improve your physical health. BJJ is a full-body workout that will utilize pulling and pushing muscles to accomplish your objectives on and off the mat. You’ll be able to experience an increase in bloody circulation and an improvement in your cardio. BJJ training will help you have stronger muscles and ligaments. You will also be able to increase your bone density through regular training.

As you feel yourself improve, you’ll most likely have a greater desire to optimize your health because you’ll want to always perform at your best. Below are 5 healthy tips that will help you get better as a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner.

5 healthy ways to improve your BJJ skills

1. Hydrate: Water helps everything in your body function properly. Every organ from your brain to your skin needs water so make it a point to always stay hydrated. Your joints also need water to stay lubricated. Do what you need to so you drink enough water every day. It’s easier to stay on top of your hydration routine instead of trying to recover from dehydration.
2. Eat before and after training: You need healthy, nutritious fuel in your body to properly train! Even if your goal is to lose weight, it’s still vital that you eat food before and after class. Your body needs calories, vitamins, and minerals to perform when you’re on the mat. Your body also needs calories, vitamins, and minerals to build and repair muscle after training.
3. Sleep: Sleep is one of your best friends as you began your BJJ journey. Quality sleep will help you remember what you’ve learned in class, improve your problem solving abilities, and heal from tough workouts.
4. Rest as needed: If you’ve been going hard for a month straight, it’s ok to take a break from training for a night or two. Even if that means you go for a walk instead of getting in some hard rounds, you’ll be making progress towards a longer BJJ career. Sometimes your body needs rest to heal up and help you be at your best.
5. Tap early and often: One of the best ways to prevent injuries is to tap early and often! It’s easy to let your ego get in the way so resist the urge to fight off every submission and tap when you’ve been caught. It’s better for you to tap early than to get injured and have to take time off the mat.

Can BJJ be used in MMA?

Yes, BJJ can be used in Mixed Martial Arts. In fact, BJJ jumped in popularity due to the success of Royce Gracie using BJJ techniques to win against other fighters. Here’s early footage of Royce Gracie fighting in the UFC:

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu effective in self-defense?

Yes, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be highly effective in self-defense. A BJJ practitioner has opportunities to pressure-test his/her skills on a regular basis. This allows a BJJ practitioner to know what works and what doesn’t work against a full-resisting opponent. It’s a great skillset to have since many fights end up going to the ground.

BJJ allows the user to not only rely on speed and strength but also leverage and technique to neutralize an opponent. With consistent training, you can also have these skills and be able to think clearly in tough situations.

What type of equipment do I need to train BJJ?

If you’re doing gi classes then you will need a gi, a whitebelt, and a mouthguard. If you’re doing no gi classes then you will need a shirt/rashguard, shorts/spats, and a mouthguard.

Not everyone uses a mouthguard when training but we do recommend using one to reduce injuries.

Go train!

Now that you have a deeper knowledge of BJJ, start training! You can quickly find a BJJ gym to train at depending on where you live in the world. Once you’ve identified a gym you’re interested in training at, contact them to sign up for a trial class. Some gyms may even have a free week of classes for you to test out. Once you’ve tested out different gyms and have found one that works for you, start training!

The post What is brazilian jiu jitsu? appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) and judo are two martial arts with a rich history of storied legends and pressure-tested techniques. In this blog post, we’ll quickly cover the histories by BJJ and judo as well as their key differences. You’ll learn more about these international combat sports, some of their top competitors, and even differences in equipment.

Key points of the differences between Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Judo

• Judo places a higher emphasis on throwing opponents and takedowns
• BJJ places a higher emphasis on ground fighting and ground techniques
• Judo gis are heavier and thicker
• BJJ gis tend to still be durable but lighter weight and flexible

The history of BJJ

The term “Brazilian Jiu Jitsu” is often used interchangeably with “Gracie Jiu Jitsu” due to its development being credited to the Gracie family in Brazil around 1920. Much of BJJ stems from the art of judo since Mitsuyo Maeda, a student of Kano Jigoro (founder of judo), spread his knowledge and techniques in Brazil starting in 1914. A few years later, Carlos Gracie was taken in as a student of Maeda which then led to Helio Gracie (younger brother of Carlos) learning techniques from Maeda as well. Helio eventually developed Gracie Jiu Jitsu as a way for someone to survive and neutralize an opponent through ground fighting and leverage.

Over the last several decades, BJJ has grown in popularity around the world with schools everywhere from South Korea to London. Here are some of the top BJJ practitioners in the world both current and past:

• Gordon Ryan:
• Mackenzie Dern
• Leandro Lo
• Gabrielle Garcia
• Andre Galvao
• Roger Gracie
• Craig Jones

All of the BJJ fighters listed above have achieved some of the greatest accolades any BJJ competitor could hope for. Now that you know a little more about the history of BJJ, let’s go over the history of judo.

The history of judo

Judo has a rich history tracing back to Japan and the person credited with its creation named Kano Jigoro in 1882. Kano developed a system focused on efficiency of energy to take opponents to the ground in a self-defense/combat scenario. This system enables practitioners aka judoka with the tools to maintain distance, win grip battles, and take opponents to the ground. Kano worked to spread the art throughout Japan and around the world. Years after his death, judo was added to the list of official Olympic sports in 1964.

Due to judo being an Olympic sport for several decades, there are now judo schools around the world. High level competitors can be found internationally as demonstrated by the names on the list below of top judoka:

• Noriko Anno
• Teddy Riner
• Ingrid Berghmans
• Hitoshi Saito
• Masae Ueno
• Tadahiro Nomura
• Ronda Rousey
• Kayla Harrison
• Anton Geesink

Have you heard of any of the judoka listed above? Let us know in the comments below. Now that we’ve covered a brief history of judo and share the names of the some of the top judoka in the world, we will go over the key differences between Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and judo.

key differences between brazilian jiu jitsu and judo

Now that you have a better understanding of the background stories of judo and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, we’ll answer some of the most common questions regarding BJJ and judo. This will help you see some of the differences between judo and BJJ and what makes them unique.

What type of equipment is used in BJJ?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has two general categories which are gi and no gi. Gi BJJ utilizes the gi which is the traditional martial arts uniform. No gi BJJ practitioners will wear gear such as rash guards, shorts, and spats since clothing grips aren’t allowed in no gi BJJ.

While both judoka and BJJ practitioners will both use gis, judo gis tend to be heavier and thicker. BJJ gis are more flexible and can vary a little more in lapel/sleeve length.

Is striking allowed in judo?

Unlike some rulesets for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu like combat jiu jitsu, striking is not allowed in judo. Only takedowns and submissions in judo are allowed. A heavy emphasis in judo is placed on clean, impactful takedowns.

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu effective in self-defense?

Yes, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is effective in hand-to-hand combat situations. The techniques taught in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu teach someone what he/she needs to do to survive and possibly neutralize a bigger, stronger opponent with no training.

Can judo be used in self-defense?

Yes, judo can be used in self-defense situations. Judo training will help you be more confident on your feet. You’ll have a better understanding of how to fall should you get taken down. You will also be able to maintain distance and fight for grips if needed.

More time is spent on the ground for BJJ fighters

Unlike judo, a greater emphasis is spent on groundwork for BJJ fighters than judo fighters such as escaping mount and kneeling guard passes. Majority of the time spent for judoka is spent on standup techniques with less time spent on newaza (ground techniques).

BJJ is not an Olympic sport

Although BJJ is practiced around the world, it is not an Olympic sport like judo.

Go train!

Knowing some of the differences between BJJ and judo can help you decide which martial art you want to pursue if you’re on the fence about learning judo or jiu jitsu. Which combat sport is more your style? Let us know in the comments below!

The post BJJ vs. Judo: What’s the difference? appeared first on Combat Athlete Gear.