Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception in the early 20th century. What began as a self-defence system rooted in traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu and Judo has evolved into a dynamic, global sport with a thriving community. From its focus on competition to the rise of no-gi training, the growth of women’s and kids’ BJJ, and the changing ways practitioners monetise their skills, BJJ has continuously adapted to the times. In this blog post, we’ll explore how BJJ has changed over its history and what these shifts mean for the future of the art.
The Shift from Self-Defence to Competition Focus
In its early days, BJJ was primarily a self-defence system designed to empower smaller individuals to overcome larger opponents. Helio and Carlos Gracie, along with their students, emphasised real-world applications and the effectiveness of BJJ in street fights. However, as the art gained popularity, the focus began to shift toward competition.
The rise of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in the 1990s showcased BJJ’s effectiveness in mixed martial arts (MMA), catapulting it into the mainstream. This exposure led to a surge in interest, with practitioners increasingly training for tournaments rather than self-defence scenarios. Today, BJJ competitions like the IBJJF World Championships and ADCC have become the pinnacle of the sport, with athletes dedicating years to perfecting their techniques for the mats.
While self-defence remains a core component of BJJ, the art’s competitive side has undeniably taken centre stage. This shift has also influenced teaching methods, with many academies now offering specialised competition classes to cater to aspiring athletes.
The Rise of No-Gi BJJ: A Modern Preference
Another significant change in BJJ’s history is the growing popularity of no-gi training. Traditionally, BJJ was practiced in a gi, a uniform that includes a jacket, pants, and belt. The gi not only represents the art’s roots but also introduces unique grips and strategies.
However, as MMA gained traction, many practitioners began favouring no-gi BJJ for its faster pace and direct applicability to MMA. The absence of grips forces athletes to rely more on speed, agility, and control, making it an appealing option for those looking to diversify their skill set.
No-gi has also become a favorite among casual practitioners who prefer the simplicity of wearing rash guards and shorts. Events like the ADCC World Championships, CJI and EBI have further popularised no-gi, solidifying its place as a major branch of modern BJJ.
The Growth of Women’s and Kids’ BJJ
One of the most inspiring developments in BJJ’s history is the growth of women’s and kids’ participation. While BJJ was once a male-dominated sport, the landscape has changed dramatically in recent years.
Women like Mackenzie Dern, Gabi Garcia, and Ffion Davies have become household names, inspiring a new generation of female practitioners. Women’s divisions at major tournaments are now more competitive than ever, and many academies offer women-only classes to create a welcoming environment.
Similarly, kids’ BJJ has seen exponential growth. Parents are increasingly enrolling their children in BJJ programs to build confidence, discipline, and self-defence skills. Programs like these are designed to teach young practitioners the fundamentals of BJJ in a fun and supportive setting.
Changes in How People Make Money with BJJ
The way people make money with BJJ has also evolved over time. In the past, BJJ instructors primarily relied on running academies and teaching classes. While this remains a common path, the digital age has opened up new opportunities for monetisation.
Online instructionals, subscription-based platforms, and social media have allowed BJJ practitioners to reach a global audience. Athletes like Lachlan Giles, Gordon Ryan and Bernardo Faria have built lucrative careers by sharing their expertise through digital content.
Additionally, the rise of BJJ brands and apparel has created new revenue streams. From gis and rash guards to training equipment, the BJJ market is booming. Affiliate marketing, sponsorships, and even BJJ-themed merchandise have become viable ways for practitioners to earn income.
Conclusion: The Future of BJJ
As BJJ continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: its ability to adapt and grow with the times. From its roots in self-defence to its current status as a global sport, BJJ has proven to be a dynamic and resilient art.
The rise of no-gi training, the growth of women’s and kids’ BJJ, and the changing ways practitioners monetise their skills are just a few examples of how the art has transformed. As we look to the future, it’s clear that BJJ will continue to innovate and inspire new generations of practitioners.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a beginner looking to start your journey, Continuous Flow BJJ offers quality apparel for all ages and skill levels. Join us on the mats and be part of the ever-evolving story of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.