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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BJJ gear for beginners: what to buy, and what can wait

You do not need to spend much to start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Most of the kit you see on experienced members was bought over years, not before their first class. Here is what you actually need on day one, what is worth buying in your first months, and what can wait.

For your first class

Nothing special. Wear shorts or leggings without zips or pockets and a fitted t-shirt or rash guard. Bring a water bottle and flip-flops for walking off the mat. Take off jewellery and trim your nails before you arrive. Our guide to your first class covers the rest.

Your first purchases

A mouthguard. Inexpensive and worth having from your first weeks, especially once you start sparring.
A rash guard and shorts. For no-gi classes, a fitted rash guard reduces friction and keeps training hygienic. Choose shorts without pockets or zips. Many people wear leggings or spats underneath.
A gi, if you train in gi classes. See below for how to choose one.
Flip-flops and a kit bag, so the mat stays clean and your training clothes stay separate.

Choosing your first gi

The gi, also called a kimono, is a jacket, trousers and a belt. For a first gi, aim for something durable, mid-weight and plain.

Colour. White, blue or black are the safe choices. They are the colours accepted at IBJJF competitions, so the gi stays useful if you ever compete.
Size. Adult gis use A sizes, running from A0 for smaller frames up to A4 or A5 for tall or heavy builds. Brands differ, so check the size chart against your height and weight. Most cotton gis shrink slightly in the first wash: wash cold and air dry.
Weave. A standard pearl weave jacket is a good balance of comfort and durability. Very heavy jackets are warm, and ultra-light ones wear out faster.
Budget. A solid entry-level gi does the job. Spend on fit rather than branding.

If you join the 6-week Beginners Programme, you can add a gi to it at a reduced price. Details are on the pricing page.

Protection worth having

Groin guard. Optional, but many men wear one, especially in no-gi. Choose a low-profile model designed for grappling.
Finger tape. Useful once gi grips start to strain your fingers.
Ear guards and knee pads. Only if you have a specific need. They are not beginner essentials.

Kids' kit

Children need the same basics: comfortable clothes for the first class, then a kids' gi if their class trains in the gi, and a mouthguard. Children's gis use their own size scale, which varies by brand. Buy by height with a little room to grow, but not so large that sleeves and trousers get in the way. Our parents' guide to kids' jiu-jitsu covers classes for ages 6 to 14.

Looking after your kit

Wash your gi, rash guard and shorts after every session, and never leave damp kit in your bag. Let your belt air out and wash it from time to time. Clean kit protects you and your training partners, as our guide to injuries and safety explains.