Is BJJ suitable for children? Absolutely. Children invariably begin wrestling without the guidance of adults as a recreational activity anyway, so providing technique and structure for it is a fairly natural progression. For children under 10, grappling styles are learned most easily.
Is there a ranking system? Yes. There is a ranking system recognized by the majority of BJJ schools. It may differ slightly depending on the school you choose, but commonly it goes: white, grey, yellow, orange and green.
Because most schools operate under the same rank recognition, your rank would most likely transfer with you
in the event you move and need to find a new school. See our Belt Ranking page for more information >
So when can my child earn their black belt? Fortunately, they can’t earn a black belt until they reach an adult age. Think about it…if they reach the highest rank as a child, what would they have to look forward to as an adult?
7 REASONS YOUR KID(s) SHOULD TRAIN BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU
Parents often enroll their children in martial arts programs and for a variety of reasons. The benefits from training, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in particular, are endless. Here are 7 reasons to get your child started in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
1 – Confidence
Martial arts develops confidence in children, but Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu does it best! BJJ is very different than traditional martial arts. There are no choreographed patterns, screaming and breaking boards, and there is no punching and kicking. BJJ allows kids to engage in a realistic combat situation where they are trying to grapple to a dominant position, escape a compromising position or apply a submission (joint lock or choke). BJJ gives a child real self confidence and a real way to defend themselves.
2 – Social Skills
The environment on the mat is incredible. When we walk into the academy we are all equal, no matter what. BJJ brings in people from all walks of life and kids can meet new friends they may never have in any other way. We see each other all the time, creating a very strong bond. We trust and depend on each other in order to learn.
3 – Fitness
BJJ will develop functional strength, cardiovascular endurance and flexibility. You are always learning new techniques and the ability to “tap out” allows you to train at 100% without risk of serious injury. Plus, it’s more fun to work out with your friends!
4 – Focus
BJJ provides an activity that is both physically demanding and mentally stimulating. Learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is fun but it can be challenging. If it’s fun and challenging, they’ll want to do it.
5 – Problem Solving Skills
BJJ enables children to develop vital problem solving skills. Every class and training partner provides new problems and situations that must be overcome. They will learn to solve problems in a timely manner while under pressure.
6 – Self-Defense
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a great self-defense system to learn. It has been shown that most physical altercations end up on the ground where Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is most useful. But also, BJJ teaches you to be a calm person and you become better at avoiding and preventing such altercations.
7 – Superhero Dreams
It’s not very likely that we will ever be bitten by a radioactive spider to superpower our bodies. Everyone wants to improve upon themselves. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will bring kids closer to their superhero dreams than anything else. They will learn more life lessons on the mat than in any ivy league school.
Gracie Kids are Bully Proof!