The Basics of BJJ Competition for Beginners

Written By Adam Ellis

Competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best ways to challenge yourself and improve your game. For those new to competition, it can be a bit overwhelming, so here’s a simple guide to help you prepare and understand what to expect.

Divisions

BJJ competitions divide competitors by age, belt level, and weight to keep matches fair.

  • Age Divisions:

    • Adult: Ages 18-29.

    • Master: Starts at 30+ (e.g., Master 1: 30-35, Master 2: 36-40).

  • Belt Levels:

    • White Belt

    • Blue Belt

    • Purple

    • Brown

    • Black

    • For no-gi, some tournaments combine higher belts (purple, brown, black) into one division.

  • Weight Classes:
    IBJJF weight classes vary slightly between gi and no-gi. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to make it clear:

    Men's IBJJF Weight Classes

  • Rooster – under 57.5 kg in a gi under 55.6 kg with nogi kit on

  • Light feather – under 64 kg in a gi under 61.7 kg with nogi kit on

  • Feather – under 70 kg in a gi under 67.5 kg with nogi kit on

  • Light – under 76 kg in a gi under 73.5 kg with nogi kit on

  • Middle – under 82.3 kg in a gi under 79.6 kg with nogi kit on

  • Medium heavy – under 88.3 kg in a gi under 85.5 kg with nogi kit on

  • Heavy – under 94.3 kg in a gi under 91.6 kg with nogi kit on

  • Super heavy – under 100.5 kg in a gi under 97.5 kg with nogi kit on

  • Ultra heavy – unlimited

    Women's IBJJF Weight Classes

  • Rooster – under 48.5kg in the gi under 46.7kg

  • Light feather – under 53.5 kg in the gi under 51.7 kg

  • Feather – under 58.5 kg in the gi under 56.7 kg

  • Light – under 64 kg in the gi under 61.6 kg

  • Middle – under 69 kg in the gi under 66.7 kg

  • Medium heavy – under 74 kg in the gi under 71.6 kg

  • Heavy – under 79.3 kg in the gi under 76.6 kg

  • Super Heavy – unlimited

What to Bring

Preparation is everything. Make sure you pack the essentials:

  • Legal Kit: Your gi and no-gi gear must meet competition standards (e.g., patch placement, sleeve length). Check the rules yourself—don’t just rely on teammates or coaches.

  • Spare Kit: Bring an extra gi or rash guard in case your main one doesn’t pass inspection or rips when competing.

  • Gum Shield: If you normally use one, pack it.

  • Water and Food: Bring food you’re familiar with to avoid stomach issues, and don’t rely on venue amenities. (they can run out)

  • Nail Clippers: Trim your nails before leaving to avoid penalties, they should be trimmed anyway when grappling.

  • Loo Roll: Be prepared—some venues may run out or not stock enough toilet paper. A roll is always handy. Lots of people weight cutting and nervous, you get it!

Understanding Points

In BJJ, knowing the point system can often make the difference between winning and losing.

You could spend the whole match fighting for a submission then run out of time and realise you have been out scored. If the time of the match runs out then it will go to a points decision. In the event of a draw then it will be referee’s decision. It should be whoever is most active wins the match - but they do get it wrong, so score points and dominate.

Here’s the IBJJF points system:

Points -

Takedown 2

Sweep (reversal of position) 2

Knee on Belly2

Guard Pass 3

Mount or Back Mount (with hooks) 4

Each position must be held/controlled for 3 seconds to be awarded points

Advantage Points: Awarded for near submissions or progressing positions without fully stabilising. These can break ties if the points are equal.

Penalties: Negative points for stalling, fleeing the mat, or illegal grips.

The match will stop or end when the referee signals. Pay attention to the referee, sometimes they will reset you in the middle.

When your opponent taps, look for the ref’s signal to let go. That’s when the match ends. Sometimes the ref might miss it and carry the match on. Then that beautiful triangle you set up didn’t mean a thing because the ref didn’t see the tap - this is also known as the ‘Brazilian Tap’ in jiu-jitsu slang.

Respect and Representation

When you step on the mats, you represent Dark Path Grappling. How you conduct yourself reflects on you and the team.

  • Respect Shows Strength: Being respectful to your opponent, referee, and teammates is a sign of confidence and composure—not weakness.

  • Shake Hands: Always shake hands with your opponent before and after the match, regardless of the result.

  • Respect the Referee: They’re doing their job as best they can. If there’s an issue, your coach will handle it.

  • Celebrating: When you win, going crazy like you’ve won a million dollars can get you disqualified. So wait until your hand has been raised to do your backflips. Also if your opponent needs medical attention at the end of the match because they are injured then wait patiently until that is over.

Listening to Your Coach and Team

Listening during a match can make all the difference:

  • Guidance: Your coach and team will spot opportunities or dangers you might miss.

  • Confidence: Hearing your coach keeps you calm and reminds you you’re not alone.

  • Awareness: Sometimes, you might overhear your opponent’s coach, giving you insight into their plan.

  • Timing: Close matches can all be down to the last few seconds. Listening our for time and points will make a difference.

  • Don’t Speak: Speaking to your coach, team, opponent or even the ref can all be confused as a “verbal tap” and some refs will DQ you. Stay composed and your coach or team will say what needs to be said.

On Competition Day

Here’s how to stay organised and stress-free:

  1. Arrive Early: Be at the venue 1.5-2 hours before your scheduled time. If you are late they won’t wait for you, you will be DQ’d.

  2. Check Your Kit: Make sure your gear meets the rules and is ready to go.

  3. Weigh-In: Step on the scale in your gi or no-gi attire when you get there

  4. Warm-Up: Get moving enough to break a sweat, but don’t overdo it.

  5. Stay Close to the Mat Area: Listen for your division and be ready to step up when called.

Managing Nerves

It’s normal to feel nervous before competing.

  • Focus on your breathing and stick to your game plan.

  • Use any nerves as fuel to stay sharp and focused.

  • Remember, everyone starts somewhere—this is a chance to grow and learn.

After the Match

  • Reflect: Think about what went well and what you can improve.

  • Feedback: Talk to your coach for tips on how to adjust your game.

  • Learn from the Experience: Competing is a skill, and like any skill, it takes practice to improve.

Final Thoughts

Competing in Jiu-Jitsu is an incredible experience. Whether you win, lose, or draw, you’ll learn a lot about yourself and your game. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, bond with teammates, and grow as a grappler.

If you’re unsure about competing, just jump in and do it—you’ll probably enjoy it and come away better for it. Represent Dark Path Grappling with pride, stay respectful, and make the most of the day.

Train for BJJ Competition at Dark Path Grappling in Surrey

If you're serious about competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Surrey, Dark Path Grappling in Godalming is the perfect place to train. Our experienced coaching, structured classes, and tough yet supportive training partners will help you sharpen your skills and prepare for your first tournament. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced grappler, we focus on technical precision, competition strategy, and real-world application of BJJ techniques.

Join us at Dark Path Grappling and take your Jiu-Jitsu to the next level. Visit our homepage to learn more and book your first class: Dark Path Grappling

Adam Ellis
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