Everything About Jiu Jitsu: Rules, Belts, Ranking, and Training
- American Top Team Sandy Springs
- Jul 28
- 5 min read
Jiu Jitsu is one of the most practiced and recognized martial arts in the world, for both men and women. It is sought after by people looking for self-defense as well as those who want to improve physical conditioning and mental development, going beyond traditional weight training.
Even so, it’s common to hear questions such as: “What is jiu jitsu?”, “Is jiu jitsu safe?”, “How long does it take to learn jiu jitsu?”, among others.
That’s why we created this guide to help you understand how Jiu Jitsu works in practice, its rules, belt system, use of the gi (uniform), and what to realistically expect from training.
What Is Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu is a martial art and also a sport, primarily focused on ground fighting, opponent control, leverage, chokes, and submission techniques.
If your question is “Is jiu jitsu a sport?” or “Is jiu jitsu a martial art?”, the answer is yes! Jiu Jitsu is both a sport and a martial art.
The core principle of Jiu Jitsu is to allow a smaller or physically weaker person to defend themselves against a larger opponent by using technique, strategy, and positioning — not brute strength.
What Is Jiu Jitsu Used for in Practice?
Jiu Jitsu is sought after by:
People looking for self-defense
Those searching for a different martial art or sport
Adults and children who want to improve discipline and self-control
People who want better physical and mental conditioning
Athletes who train MMA or grappling
These are some of the most common reasons people look to train Jiu Jitsu, regardless of gender or age — but each student has their own personal goals.
And if you want to know what does jiu jitsu teach?, Jiu Jitsu teaches:
✅ Self-defense techniques
✅ Emotional control under pressure
✅ Fast decision-making skills
✅ Coordination and body awareness
✅ Physical conditioning
✅ Muscular strength
✅ Physical and mental resilience
✅ Confidence and discipline
Is Jiu Jitsu Wrestling?
No. Even though both involve grappling, Jiu Jitsu and Wrestling are different.
Wrestling prioritizes explosiveness, takedown entries, and positional dominance, aiming to score points or pin the opponent. Jiu Jitsu, on the other hand, focuses on ground fighting, seeking submissions through technique, leverage, and body control — without the use of striking.
In Jiu Jitsu, it’s possible to win a match even while underneath the opponent, something that does not happen in traditional wrestling, where the objective is to maintain top control.
How Many Belts Are in Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu uses a belt system to classify a student’s development, technical ability, and overall mastery. The adult belt system consists of five main colors, according to the official IBJJF ranking:
White (beginner)
Blue
Purple
Brown
Black (master level)
So, for those asking “How many belts are in jiu jitsu?” or “What are the belts in jiu jitsu?”, this is the internationally recognized progression established by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).
What Is the Highest Belt in Jiu Jitsu?
The black belt is the highest rank in regular instruction, but there are degrees above black belt that represent decades of practice and contribution to the sport, such as:
Red and Black Belt (Coral Belt – 7th degree)
Red and White Belt (Coral Belt – 8th degree)
Red Belt (Grand Master – 9th and 10th degree)
How Long Does It Take to Get a Jiu Jitsu Black Belt?
One of the most common questions from students is: “How long does it take to get a jiu jitsu black belt?”
Realistically: The federation establishes minimum time requirements for each belt. On average, reaching black belt takes between 8 to 12 years.
This timeline also depends on training frequency, consistency, dedication, and the quality of instruction. It’s not about speed — it’s about technical development.
Important: You cannot become a black belt while underage. In Jiu Jitsu, the minimum age requirement for black belt is 19 years old.
Kimono (Gi): What Is a Gi in Jiu Jitsu?
The kimono, also known as the gi, is the traditional uniform used in Jiu Jitsu.
So when someone asks “What is gi in jiu jitsu?” or “What is a jiu jitsu gi?”, the answer is simple: it’s the uniform that allows grips, control, and specific techniques.
Do students wear the gi in every Jiu Jitsu class? The answer is no. Jiu Jitsu training is divided into Gi and No-Gi classes.
Gi training uses the kimono and focuses more on technique and strategy.
No-Gi training is done without the kimono and is faster-paced, closer to MMA-style grappling.
These formats complement each other, and instructors will inform students when the gi is required.
Is Jiu Jitsu Dangerous? Or Is Jiu Jitsu Safe?
Like any contact sport, there are risks. However, Jiu Jitsu is considered one of the safest combat sports when practiced correctly, in a controlled environment, and under qualified instruction.
How to know if Jiu Jitsu training is safe:
Techniques are practiced in a controlled manner
The “tap” allows the student to stop before injury
Classes are supervised by qualified instructors
So for those asking “Is jiu jitsu dangerous?” or “Is jiu jitsu safe?”, the answer is: it is safe when trained at a serious, well-structured academy.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Jiu Jitsu?
Learning the basics of Jiu Jitsu takes a few months, but mastering it takes years:
1 to 3 months: fundamentals and adaptation
6 months: understanding positions
1 year: basic training autonomy
Continuous evolution over the years
Average of 8 to 12 years to reach black belt
That’s why the best answer to “How to learn jiu jitsu?” is to start, train consistently, and trust the process — progression will come naturally.
What Are Jiu Jitsu Classes Like?
A typical Jiu Jitsu class includes:
Functional warm-up
Technical training (positions and transitions)
Repetitive drills
Controlled sparring
Stretching and recovery
Everything is done progressively, respecting the student’s age and experience level.
Why Train Jiu Jitsu at American Top Team Atlanta?
Training Jiu Jitsu goes far beyond learning techniques. At American Top Team, you’ll find:
A safe and respectful environment
Adult classes (men and women)
Children’s classes
Strong focus on technique
Emphasis on progressive student development
Training adapted to age and skill level
FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions About Jiu Jitsu
What is jiu jitsu?
Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that emphasizes leverage, technique, and strategy over physical strength. It teaches students how to control opponents through grappling, positional control, and submission techniques, making it effective for sport, self-defense, and personal development.
Is jiu jitsu a sport or a martial art?
Both. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a traditional martial art and one of the world's most popular grappling sports. It can be practiced for competition, self-defense, fitness, or personal growth.
How many belts are in jiu jitsu?
Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has five main belt ranks: white, blue, purple, brown, and black. Students progress through each belt by developing technical skills, consistency, and experience under qualified instructors.
What is the highest belt in jiu jitsu?
The highest commonly awarded rank is the black belt, which includes several degrees recognizing years of continued training, teaching, and contribution to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
How long does it take to get a jiu jitsu black belt?
For most practitioners, earning a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt takes approximately 8 to 12 years of consistent training. Progress depends on dedication, attendance, technical development, and instructor evaluation.
Is jiu jitsu safe for beginners?
Yes. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is considered one of the safest martial arts for beginners because classes emphasize technique, control, and gradual progression. Training under qualified instructors helps reduce injury risk while building confidence and practical skills.
Is jiu jitsu wrestling?
No. Although both are grappling disciplines, Wrestling focuses primarily on takedowns and positional control, while Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes submissions, guard techniques, escapes, and ground fighting.
What is the difference between judo and jiu jitsu?
Judo focuses primarily on throws, takedowns, and standing techniques, while Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu places greater emphasis on ground control, submissions, and positional strategy. Both martial arts share common origins but have evolved into distinct disciplines with different training methods and competition rules.
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