The 11 Biggest Lies in Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and a reliable form of self-defense. There are many variations of Jiu-Jitsu, such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. Despite its long history and various practices, there are many incorrect myths about jiu-jitsu.

Sometimes it can be hard to distinguish between truth and myth. This article will help clear up the fog.

Originating from Japan and thriving in Brazil, jiu-jitsu is based on the Japanese martial art of Judo, with the addition of some unique techniques. Jiu-jitsu focuses on ground fighting (grappling) and submission attacks, and choke holds rather than strikes.

In the past few decades, Jiu-Jitsu has become increasingly popular. However, it has also become the subject of many false rumors.

Usually, BJJ is viewed as only a means of self-defense. However, it can be more than that. BJJ can be a fun activity that improves confidence and physical health.

Jiu-Jitsu is not just suited for competitive individuals. It benefits almost everyone as a means of self-defense, regardless of size, age, or strength.

Jiu-Jitsu is often considered a brutal sport due to many of its peculiar techniques to immobilize the opponent without striking a single blow and in the best harmless way possible. However, it is not a brutal martial art as some people portray.

Yes, there are times when the sport can be pretty harsh, but the basic intent of BJJ is not to inflict injury or pain on your opponent. You can use leverage and joint locks to control your opponent’s movement and ultimately subdue them with minimal force.

Usually, BJJ practitioners try to implement the game plan to steer the match according to their will, but it all depends on the whim of the fighting moment. Nothing goes according to the plan when the fight starts. If one opponent is playing offensively then the other player has to counter the attacks by playing defensively. So, planning is not only good but also recommended, but in reality, both fighters are truly living in the moment, and their skills and accurate application of techniques will determine the decision of the fight.

While most BJJ practitioners are indeed men, many women also engage in BJJ training. Many successful competitors in professional Jiu-Jitsu competitions are women.

The main cause of injuries in Jiu-Jitsu is the training environment, lack of awareness, carelessness and not adopting precautionary measures. BJJ is one of the safest martial arts when practiced correctly. Most injuries occur during training, intense rolling, and careless sparring sessions due to a lack of attention or failure to follow proper safety guidelines.

Injuries also happen when you fight without wearing your BJJ gear, including a BJJ belt, BJJ Gi, and rash guard.  It is always recommended by the BJJ coaches to tap out when caught in strong submissions. Resistance to submissions highly increases the chances of getting severely injured.

Though Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and is often associated with fighting, it can also be viewed as a form of elite and efficient exercise, a lifestyle for a healthy mind and body. Practicing Jiu-Jitsu techniques and exercises can help you to work out, burn excess fat, improve physical and mental health and achieve an athletic physique.

Being a close-contact sport, it is not possible to pursue BJJ without at least sustaining some injury, strain, or muscle pull. While the risk of serious injury is relatively low in Jiu-Jitsu compared to Judo or MMA.

The most common injuries are bruises, strains, neck pain, shoulder strain, and head pain. These injuries are mostly the result of improper application of techniques, submission resistance, rolling with bigger opponents, and overtraining, apart from poor food intake. Other common injuries include joint pain, tendonitis, and sprains.

While these injuries may not be serious, they can still be painful and cause great inconvenience. It's essential to be aware of the risks before you step onto the mat. Pack your bag with all the basic safety gear to avoid getting seriously injured.

For many novice BJJ practitioners, sparring can be a humbling experience. Though martial art is designed to help people improve their physical and mental strength, it can be disheartening when an opponent gains the upper hand. Unfortunately, this is often accompanied by annoying comments and questions after sparring that only compound the frustration.

Jiu-Jitsu can be practiced by people of all ages, not just young adults below 30. Many older BJJ practitioners still practice, enjoy, and maintain their health through BJJ. Both young and old individuals can benefit from BJJ training’s positive impact on strength, coordination, flexibility, and self-defense.

The most important aspects of fighting and competing in martial arts are power and strength. However, BJJ emphasizes technique over strength.

One of Jiu-Jitsu’s advantages is that it allows smaller fighters to defeat larger opponents.

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there are many myths and lies. Some people believe you need to be strong and athletic to be a good BJJ fighter. Others think you need to be flexible or have a specific body type.

The truth is that anyone can be a great BJJ player regardless of size, strength, or flexibility. The key is to find what works for you and to focus on overcoming your weaknesses.

To have complete confidence in your BJJ game, try the following suggestions:

1. Train consistently
2. Be patient
3. Take inspiration but do not compare, as the comparison is the end of joy
4. Take your time
5. Understand that everyone is different
6. Find a coach that you trust
7. Train and learn from more experienced fighters
8. Believe in yourself

Do not focus on propaganda and focus on mastery of techniques. But all these claims can be easily disproved when you step into the sublime aroma of a BJJ gym.

Jiu-Jitsu is a complex grappling sport that takes years to master. There is no such thing as an easy win or injury-free training. Dealing with minor injuries is part of the daily training routine of Martial art and BJJ practitioners. You may get hurt learning BJJ, but that comes with the martial art. Do not let your fears keep you from learning BJJ.

Photo credit: @bjjee