20 BJJ terms that every beginner should know

As you step onto the mat for the first time, familiarizing yourself with the essential terminology of this martial art will not only enhance your understanding but also contribute to your overall progress and enjoyment. In this guide, we'll delve into the foundational BJJ terms that every newcomer should acquaint themselves with, setting the stage for a rewarding and enriching experience on your BJJ journey.

• Base: Fundamental stance and posture used to maintain balance and stability during BJJ techniques and movements.

• Bridge: Technique involving lifting the hips off the ground to create space or disrupt the opponent's position.

• Drilling: Repetitive practice of specific techniques or movements to develop muscle memory and proficiency.

• Escapes: Techniques utilized to free oneself from disadvantageous positions, such as mount or side control.

• Gi: Traditional uniform worn during BJJ training and competitions, typically consisting of a jacket and pants made of sturdy fabric.

• Guard: Defensive position where the practitioner on their back utilizes their legs and arms to control and neutralize the opponent's attacks.

• Hooks: Limb or body positioning used to secure control over the opponent's limbs or body, enhancing leverage and control.

• Mount: Dominant position where the practitioner sits astride the opponent's chest or hips, offering significant control and offensive opportunities.

• No-Gi: BJJ practiced without the traditional gi, often involving attire such as rash guards and board shorts.

• Passing Guard: Technique to move from the opponent's guard to a dominant position, such as side control or mount.

• Rolling: Sparring session where practitioners engage in live, simulated combat, applying techniques learned in training.

• Shrimp/Hip escape: Technique used to create space and escape from the bottom position, involving hip movement and leg positioning.

• Side Control: Position where the practitioner controls the opponent from the side, typically with one knee against the opponent's body and the other leg extended.

• Submission: Technique employed to force the opponent to surrender, often involving joint locks or chokes.

• Sweep: Technique used to reverse the position of the opponent, transitioning from a defensive to an offensive stance.

• Takedown: Technique used to bring the opponent to the ground, often involving throws or trips.

• Tapping out: Act of physically or verbally signaling submission to an opponent's submission hold or when in a compromised position.

• Turtle: Defensive position where the practitioner assumes a protective stance on hands and knees, resembling a turtle's posture.

As you continue your journey in Jiu-Jitsu, the knowledge and understanding of these fundamental terms will serve as pillars of your growth and development in the sport. Embrace each training session as an opportunity to deepen your understanding and mastery of these terms, and watch as your skills and appreciation flourish over time.