In November of last year, a deeply disturbing case shook the Brazilian jiu-jitsu community. A 23-year-old athlete from Amazonas took to social media to share his traumatic experiences, revealing that he had been abused by his instructor between the ages of 10 and 14 during his early years in the sport. The accused, a 56-year-old coach, was arrested at a championship in Balneário Camboriú, where he was attending the event with young athletes. According to the authorities, at least 12 victims have been identified, and six more are expected to testify. What made the case even more alarming was how...

You’ve probably heard the story before, the woman who wants to train jiu-jitsu but her boyfriend or husband won’t let her. Or the other way around, the girlfriend who picks a fight because her partner trains.Yeah, that kind of drama happens more often than people think. So let’s try to help out those who still see “this grappling thing” as a source of jealousy, tension, or relationship crisis. Everyone Has a Reason to Be on the Mat Let’s be honest here, everyone starts training jiu-jitsu for a reason,Some take it seriously and evolve,Some are just testing the waters,Some ride the...

If you train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you’ve probably heard of the infamous blue belt dropout. For some, it’s just a meme. For others, it’s a painful reality. But why do so many promising practitioners hang up their gi right after reaching this milestone? Let’s break down what really happens when the high of earning your blue belt starts to fade — and what you can do to push through. From Motivation to Frustration In the white belt phase, everything is new and exciting. You’re learning fast, progressing quickly, and maybe even tapping out higher belts. The blue belt comes as a...

When Shama Ko first stepped onto the mats, she never imagined she’d one day help lead a national movement for women in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. But that’s exactly what happened. As the founder and program director of Girls in Gis, a nonprofit that hosts women’s BJJ events across the U.S., Shama has created a space where thousands of women have trained, connected, and grown together. We sat down with her to talk about community, growth, and what makes this project so powerful. BJJ Girls Mag: For those who don’t know, what is Girls in Gis and how did it start? Shama:Girls...

If you’re in your 30s or 40s and thinking about starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you’re not alone, and you’re not too late. In fact, this stage of life can be one of the best times to begin. Still, it’s completely normal to feel nervous about stepping onto the mats, especially in a sport that’s often portrayed as intense, male-dominated, and physically demanding. This guide will help you understand what to expect and how to navigate your early training with confidence, clarity, and care. You’re Not “Too Old”, You’re Just on Time First things first: you’re not too old to start BJJ....

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be one of the most empowering decisions you ever make, but finding the right academy is just as important as stepping onto the mats for the first time. Not all gyms are created equal, and as a woman entering a male-dominated space, there are a few extra layers to consider. This guide is for women who are looking for a healthy, respectful, and supportive environment to begin their BJJ journey. Whether you’re completely new to martial arts or coming back after a long break, here’s what you should keep in mind before choosing your first academy....

If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve been thinking about trying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) but still feel a little unsure. Maybe you’ve scrolled past some videos online or seen a local academy offering classes for women. You’re curious but hesitant. That’s completely normal. This guide will answer the most common questions and concerns women have before stepping on the mats. Whether you’re 18 or 48, here’s what you need to know before your first class.   1. You Don’t Need to Be in Shape to Start One of the biggest misconceptions is that you need to “get in shape first.”...

If you’re a woman who trains Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you’ve probably faced this question at some point: should I train while I’m on my period? It’s a common concern, especially among beginners. The physical discomfort, mood swings, and fear of “accidents” can make you want to skip training altogether. But the truth is, many women train during their cycle—and feel even better for it. This article is for anyone who’s unsure, uncomfortable, or simply curious about how to navigate their menstrual cycle while staying consistent on the mats. Let’s talk about what really matters. Understanding Your Body First of all, your...

Finding the right gi is one of the most important parts of your jiu-jitsu journey, especially for women. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for your next competition, a good gi can make all the difference. You want something that fits your body well, doesn’t feel bulky or stiff, and won’t fall apart after a few intense rolls. A well-designed gi should be durable enough for daily training, light enough for competition, and comfortable enough to wear for hours on the mats. It should also make you feel good when you put it on. Because let’s be honest: the...