What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport built around the idea that a smaller, weaker person can defend themselves against a bigger, stronger opponent using technique. It focuses on taking the fight to the ground and using leverage, body positioning, and submission holds such as chokes and joint locks to control and submit an opponent.

What is the difference between Gi and No-Gi BJJ?

Gi BJJ is practised in a traditional kimono (gi), which allows grip-based techniques and tends to develop a slower, more methodical game. No-Gi BJJ uses shorts and a rash guard with no fabric to grip, making the game faster and more dynamic. Most practitioners train both formats.

Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu right for me?

BJJ is designed for people of all sizes, ages, and fitness levels. You don't need to be fit, strong, or athletic to start. BJJ attracts people who want a physical and mental challenge, a genuine self-defence skill, a community rather than just a workout, and a structured environment to build confidence and discipline.

Is BJJ safe for beginners?

In a well-run BJJ gym, the injury rate is low. Sparring is done with control, partners tap to signal submission, and experienced coaches manage intensity carefully, especially for beginners. The culture of a good BJJ gym is cooperative, not combative.

Where does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu come from?

BJJ traces back to Japanese judo, brought to Brazil in the early 20th century by Mitsuyo Maeda. The Gracie family in Rio de Janeiro adapted and refined the techniques with a heavier emphasis on ground fighting and submissions. It gained global recognition when Royce Gracie won the inaugural UFC in 1993.

Why is Geneva a good place to train BJJ?

Geneva's international character creates a multicultural, technically diverse, and welcoming mat culture. The city has a large population of diplomats, NGO workers, and professionals who have trained elsewhere and arrive looking for a club. Regular local competitions and a growing Swiss BJJ community add momentum.

How do I get started with BJJ in Geneva?

The best way to start is to walk through the door. You don't need to be fit or have any gear. SOL Grappling offers a free trial class with no experience necessary, no commitment, and no pressure.

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Amanda Schurtz: IBJJF champion coaching jiu-jitsu in Geneva

Amanda Schurtz is a black belt and one of SOL Grappling's coaches. She is Switzerland's first and only adult female IBJJF European, Pan American and Brasileiros champion, and she has won multiple medals at every IBJJF major. Here is what those titles mean, and what they bring to training in Geneva.

What the IBJJF is

The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation, or IBJJF, is the largest organiser of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition in the world. Its events run by belt, age and weight, in both gi and no-gi, and they are the reference most competitors measure themselves against.

The majors: the highest level of the sport

The IBJJF majors are its biggest championships: the European Championship, the Pan American Championship, the Brazilian National Championship, known as the Brasileiros, and the World Championship. They draw the strongest athletes from academies around the world. For most competitors, a single medal at a major is a career highlight. Winning medals at every one of them is rare.

Amanda's record

IBJJF European champion.
IBJJF Pan American champion.
IBJJF Brasileiros champion.
Multiple medals at every IBJJF major.
The first and only adult woman from Switzerland to win the European, Pan American and Brasileiros titles.

She has more than ten years of training behind her. Sean Kheffache, black belt and coach at SOL, coached her throughout her championship career.

What it means for your training

You do not need to compete to benefit. Coaching shaped at championship level means precise technique, attention to detail and a clear progression, and beginners get that from their first class. For members who do want to compete, it means learning from someone who has prepared for and won at the highest level, from the rules to the mental side of competing. Our guide to BJJ competitions near Geneva is a good place to start.

Coaching at SOL

Amanda coaches adult and kids' classes at SOL Grappling, in French and English. You can read more about her and the rest of the coaching team on the team page, or see where we train on the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Geneva homepage.

What the IBJJF is

The majors: the highest level of the sport

Amanda's record

What it means for your training

Coaching at SOL

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