What is BJJ?
BJJ is a grappling martial art that involves techniques to control an opponent. The main aim of BJJ is to gain a dominant position to be able to end in submission.
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What is BJJ?
(All the definitions below are from this website: https://www.currentbjj.com/what-is-brazilian-jiu-jitsu, where you can find other basic information that may not be listed below. Do check it out if you want to learn more!)
Rolling
Rolling is the BJJ equivalent of sparring, and it is where you test your techniques against a resisting partner in a safe, controlled setting.
Submission
A technique that forces your opponent to concede (tap out) by applying a choke or joint lock. Submissions are the ultimate goal in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the definitive way to end a match.
Gi vs no-gi
In Gi Jiu-Jitsu, practitioners wear a heavy cotton uniform called a Gi (or kimono) that includes a jacket, pants, and a belt indicating rank. The Gi itself becomes a tool: you can grip the collar, sleeves, and pants to control your opponent, set up sweeps, and apply chokes.
In No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu, athletes wear a rashguard and shorts or spats instead. Without the Gi fabric to grip, No-Gi tends to be faster-paced and relies more on underhooks, overhooks, and body locks for control.
Open mats
Unstructured training time where BJJ practitioners can roll, drill, and work on their game freely. There is no formal instruction, just mat space and willing training partners.