What’s New

BJJ belts represent far more than the ability to execute techniques or win matches. They encapsulate the essence of the journey, embodying growth, perseverance, and responsibility. Each belt marks a milestone, but its true value lies in the experiences, lessons, and connections forged along the way.

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, maintaining hygiene is more than just routine—it’s essential for the safety and well-being of everyone who steps on the mat. Cases like Gordon Ryan’s struggle with recurring staph infections serve as reminders that a strong hygiene protocol is non-negotiable in any grappling environment.

Imagine picking up a book like Nietzsche’s Thus Spoke Zarathustra at random, flipping through its pages, and thinking, Hey, this might actually help me understand why I keep getting smashed on the mats in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu .

Slavoj Žižek’s concept of invisible violence reveals how societal norms subtly shape behaviour and control individuals without overt force. This dynamic mirrors the principles of “invisible Jiu-Jitsu,” where subtle techniques achieve control without the opponent’s awareness. Similarly, fear-based self-defence programmes—often framed as “anti-bullying” or “women’s empowerment”—focus on personal safety, reinforcing reactive responses while neglecting systemic causes of violence.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers more than just self-defence—it is a practice of personal growth and self-discovery. Structure provides the necessary foundation, while playful exploration fosters creativity and authentic expression. However, rigid systems and grading frameworks can hinder this growth, limiting the practitioner’s potential. Mastery in BJJ lies in balancing structured learning with the freedom to engage with unpredictability, ensuring the art remains dynamic and transformative.