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.

Here’s why learning Judo can be a life-changing experience for adults, and why it’s worth considering as part of your personal development journey.

1. Increased Physical Fitness

If you’re looking for a comprehensive workout that targets multiple aspects of your fitness, Judo delivers. The nature of Judo is dynamic—emphasizing strength, flexibility, endurance, balance, and coordination—making it an effective full-body workout.

• Strength: Judo emphasizes the use of leverage rather than raw strength, but this still requires significant muscular engagement. You’ll develop functional strength through lifting, gripping, and throwing techniques, as well as ground work.
• Endurance: Judo training involves intense, often high-energy bouts that improve cardiovascular endurance. Sparring and randori (free practice) are especially demanding, and over time, you’ll see improvements in stamina.
• Flexibility: Judo also encourages flexibility, particularly in the hips, legs, and back, as many throws and sweeps require a wide range of motion.
• Balance and Coordination: Many Judo techniques depend on perfect timing, positioning, and the ability to maintain balance under pressure. The constant practice of moving in unison with an opponent will sharpen your coordination, even in high-stress situations.

Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned athlete, Judo offers an effective and varied workout that can help you build both strength and agility.

2. Self-Defense Skills

Judo isn’t just about competition—it’s also an incredibly practical martial art for self-defense. By learning Judo, you’ll gain tools for protecting yourself in real-world situations.

Judo techniques are designed to neutralize opponents quickly, often by using their momentum against them. The focus on throws and joint locks provides practical defense strategies that can be applied in a variety of circumstances. For example, learning to throw someone with proper technique can be incredibly effective if you need to subdue a larger or more aggressive attacker. Additionally, Judo teaches you to remain calm and controlled under pressure—an essential mindset when facing a dangerous situation.

Unlike some martial arts that emphasize striking techniques (such as boxing or karate), Judo allows practitioners to defend themselves without relying on punches or kicks, which can be difficult to execute in close-quarters or high-stress scenarios. Instead, Judo’s emphasis on control and leverage means that you can defend yourself effectively while minimizing the risk of injury to both yourself and your attacker.

3. Mental Benefits: Discipline and Focus

Judo is not just about physical strength; it’s also about mental fortitude. Judo is a deeply philosophical martial art that requires intense focus, patience, and discipline. The very nature of Judo practice instills valuable life skills that go beyond the dojo.

• Discipline: The structure of Judo classes encourages discipline in both physical practice and personal behavior. Judo practitioners follow a strict set of rules, and respecting these rules is a key part of learning the art. Over time, this helps adults develop a sense of self-discipline that extends to other areas of life, such as work, relationships, and personal goals.
• Focus: Judo requires mental clarity and concentration. During a match or sparring session, the focus is not just on physical technique but also on strategy. This sharpens decision-making and helps you stay present, which can lead to improved focus in everyday situations.
• Perseverance: Learning Judo isn’t easy. You’ll face setbacks, difficult techniques to master, and physical challenges. But the process teaches perseverance, and over time, you’ll learn to push through obstacles, whether you’re facing a tough opponent or dealing with life’s challenges.

4. Improved Confidence and Self-Esteem

Judo can have a profound impact on your confidence. The martial art offers a challenging yet rewarding environment where you can grow both physically and mentally.

• Mastering New Skills: With consistent training, you’ll steadily improve at Judo, mastering new techniques and concepts. This sense of achievement builds self-esteem and proves to you that with hard work, you can accomplish anything.
• Overcoming Challenges: Every training session and sparring match presents a new challenge. As an adult, learning a new skill—especially one that involves complex techniques like Judo—can be a huge confidence booster. You’ll experience the satisfaction of getting better and pushing through difficulties.
• Social Connection: Judo classes often foster a strong sense of community. Whether you train alone or with a partner, you’ll be part of a supportive group of like-minded individuals, which can increase your sense of belonging and self-worth.

5. Stress Relief and Mental Clarity

In today’s fast-paced world, adults are constantly balancing work, family, and personal commitments, leading to high levels of stress. Judo offers an outlet for this stress, providing an opportunity to disconnect from daily worries and focus solely on the present moment.

During training, your attention is fully absorbed by the techniques you’re practicing, leaving little room for distractions. The physical exertion of Judo also triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters. This combination of physical and mental focus helps reduce anxiety and promotes overall well-being.

For many adults, Judo becomes a form of mental reset, helping them return to their daily lives feeling refreshed and energized.

6. Social Engagement and Sense of Community

Judo provides a unique opportunity to connect with others in a meaningful way. Unlike many solitary fitness routines, Judo is inherently social. Training partners rely on each other to practice techniques, push each other to improve, and provide support throughout the learning process. This camaraderie can be a welcome change for adults who may be seeking to expand their social circle or connect with people who share similar interests.

Whether you’re participating in group classes, seminars, or competitions, Judo offers a strong sense of community. As you progress in the sport, you’ll encounter different levels of practitioners, each offering their own perspective, advice, and encouragement. Over time, these relationships can form a network of friends and mentors who motivate you to keep improving and pushing past your limits.

7. Suitable for All Fitness Levels

One of the best things about Judo is that it’s suitable for adults of all fitness levels. Whether you’re a beginner who has never stepped foot in a martial arts dojo or someone with a background in another sport, Judo can be adapted to suit your needs.

Most Judo schools offer beginner classes that focus on the fundamentals of the sport. As you progress, you’ll learn more advanced techniques, but the core principles of Judo remain accessible to all ages and skill levels. The emphasis on using leverage and technique instead of pure strength makes Judo particularly accessible to older adults or those who may not have a background in traditional strength training.

8. Lifelong Practice and Growth

Unlike some fitness routines that may lose their appeal over time, Judo is a martial art you can practice throughout your entire life. The process of learning, refining, and mastering Judo techniques is ongoing, which means that there is always room for growth.

Judo practitioners often train well into their senior years, continuously challenging themselves both physically and mentally. The lifelong nature of Judo makes it a great way to stay active and engaged as you age, while also reaping the benefits of improved health, confidence, and social connection.

It’s time to learn judo!

Judo offers a wide range of benefits for adults, from improving physical fitness and mental clarity to building self-defense skills and increasing confidence. It is a dynamic and fulfilling martial art that caters to people of all ages and fitness levels, offering a lifetime of growth and development. Whether you’re looking to get in shape, relieve stress, or challenge yourself in new ways, Judo is a great option to consider.

If you’re ready to take the first step, find a local dojo or training center, and start your journey in the world of Judo. The benefits you’ll gain—both on and off the mat—are well worth the effort. And remember, whether you’re throwing an opponent or executing a perfect ippon, you’ll be working towards becoming the best version of yourself.

Looking for Judo gear to kickstart your training? Check out our recommended products on Combatathletegear.com, where we’ve handpicked the best Judo gis, belts, and training equipment to help you succeed.

The post The Benefits of Learning Judo for Adults: Why You Should Try It 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.

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!

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Judo is one of the most popular martial arts in the world thanks to its effectiveness, health benefits, and self-defense applications. Judoka (judo practitioners) can be found all around the world from Cameroon to France to Brazil. In this Combat Athlete Gear blog post, you will learn more about the history of judo, what it is, some of its most common techniques, and applying it for self-defense.

A brief history of judo

Judo is a standup grappling art with ground fighting techniques that traces its roots all the way back to Japan. Judo, as we know it today, was founded by Kano Jigoro who started learning jujutsu as a young man to get stronger and improve his health. Kano began studying different styles of jujutsu and eventually developed judo in 1882. Kano worked throughout the course of his life to spread the art of judo and traveled around the world to share his knowledge.

Today, judo is an international sport with a place in the Olympics. Judo continues to be a martial art that helps people accomplish their goals such as physical conditioning, self-defense, and becoming a top competitor in the art.

Common judo terms

Whether you have a background in martial arts or not, being new to judo can come with a bit of a learning curve due to the terminology used. Many of the techniques taught in judo are referred to using their Japanese names. Here’s a quick list of common terms you will hear and use as you learn judo:

• Ashi Waza: Foot techniques
• Dojo: School or academy
• Dan: Black belt rank
• Randori: Free practice or sparring
• Ippon: Victory achieved in one move, one point
• Judogi: Traditional uniform
• Kata: Can be used to refer to forms or shoulder
• Kuzushi: Unbalancing your opponent
• Te Waza: Hand techniques

There are many more terms that you’ll learn throughout the course of your judo career. While Japanese may not be your first language, you can still learn the terminology through time and consistent training.

Can judo be used for self-defense?

Yes, judo can be used for self-defense. Judo teaches you how to maintain distance from an attacker, how to fight for grips, how to break grips, how to take an opponent to the ground, and how to properly fall if needed. Judo practitioners also learn basic ground fighting skills as well as pinning techniques once an opponent is on the ground.

What does judo look like in competition?

Judo is one of the most explosive sports in the world. There’s a great deal of technique and athleticism required to throw a fully-resisting human being. Below is video of judo highlights from the 2022 Paris Grand Slam to help you have a better idea of what high-level judo looks like:

How do I get better at judo?

Like all skills, judo will require consistent, deliberate practice under the guidance of an experience sensei/teacher. It’s important that you optimize your schedule to eliminate any roadblocks that can make it more difficult to train. For example, set aside time to go to bed early the night before judo class. This will help you have enough energy for training and prevent injuries.

How do I find the right judo dojo for me?

There are different factors that go into choosing the right judo gym for you. Here are some factors you need to consider:

• Location i.e. how far are you willing to drive? does the location work with your weekly schedule?
• Focus of the judo dojo i.e. self-defense or competition?
• Coaching style i.e. does the sensei demonstrate the moves? how does the sensei answer questions?
• Learning environment i.e. are the facilities clean? is hard to hear the sensei teach?

Remember that just because one judo dojo is right for your friend doesn’t mean it’s the best fit for you. Weighing the different factors of choosing the best gym for you will help you make the most informed decision possible.

Have you been studying judo? Let us know in the comments below!

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