How Long Does It Take to Get Good at Jiu-Jitsu or Kickboxing?

If you’re starting Jiu Jitsu or Kickboxing, you’ve probably already asked yourself “How long until I get good?” or “When will I start seeing results?”

These are some of the most common questions — and in this post, we’ll answer all of them and a little more. Find out below!

👉 What Does “Getting Good” at Jiu-Jitsu or Kickboxing Mean?

Before we talk about time, it’s important to define what you mean by “getting good.”

“Getting good” can mean:

✅ Mastering the basic techniques.

✅ Improving physical conditioning.

✅ Feeling confident when training with more experienced partners.

✅ Competing and getting good results.

Each of these goals has different development times — and that’s okay!

👉 What Is the Average Progress Like in Jiu-Jitsu?

➡️ First Results: 1 to 3 months

In the first few months, you’ll already notice:

✅ Improved physical conditioning.

✅ Increased flexibility.

✅ Basic understanding of positions like guard, passing, and simple submissions.

➡️ Feeling Confident in Training: 6 months to 1 year

After six months, many students report that they:

✅ Can apply techniques more confidently.

✅ Feel more comfortable during “rolls” (sparring).

✅ May start considering more intense training sessions.

➡️ Considered “Good” Technically: 3 to 5 years

In general, to reach a technical level where you are seen as a “good” Jiu-Jitsu practitioner — with control of key positions and strategies — the average time is 3 to 5 years of consistent practice.

✅ That includes training 2 to 4 times per week.

✅ It may vary depending on talent, dedication, and coaching.

➡️ How long until the blue belt?

The blue belt, which marks the first major advancement in Jiu Jitsu, is typically achieved in 1 to 2 years.

💡 It’s a good sign that you’re “good enough” to defend and attack effectively.

👉 And What About Kickboxing? What’s the Progress Like?

➡️ First Results: 1 to 2 months

In the first few weeks, you’ll notice:

✅ Improved motor coordination.

✅ Reduced stress.

✅ Increased cardiovascular endurance.

➡️ Basic Technique and Confidence: 3 to 6 months

Within a few months, most students already:

✅ Execute punches and kicks with good form.

✅ Can join controlled sparring sessions.

✅ Build a solid base to progress.

➡️ Advanced Level: 1 to 3 years

To be considered “good” at Kickboxing — with fluid combinations, defensive movement, and proper conditioning for intense sparring — the average time is 1 to 3 years.

💡 Dedicated students who train 3 or more times per week can accelerate this process.

👉 How Long Does It Take to See Results from Kickboxing?

If your question is “How long does it take to see results from kickboxing?” it depends on what kind of result you’re looking for:

✅ Visible physical results: between 4 to 8 weeks with regular training (2-3x/week).

✅ Improved cardio and endurance: starting from 3 weeks.

✅ Technical confidence: around 3 to 6 months.

👉 Factors That Accelerate or Delay Progress

➡️ 1. Training frequency

The more often you train each week, the faster the progress. We recommend training 2 to 3 times per week to ensure steady evolution.

➡️ 2. Quality of instruction

Being in a gym with experienced instructors speeds up learning, avoids bad habits, and prevents injuries. Meet our award-winning and certified instructors at American Top Team!

➡️ 3. Previous sports experience

Those who’ve played other sports, especially combat sports, tend to learn faster. But even if you’ve never trained before, with dedication, you’ll progress well.

➡️ 4. Personal factors

Age, flexibility, strength, and daily routine can impact how fast you progress. But don’t worry — everyone can improve, regardless of age!

👉 What Can Slow Down Your Progress?

❌ Training too infrequently.

❌ Not respecting the learning process — wanting to do everything fast.

❌ Lacking patience with yourself.

❌ Not respecting training partners and/or instructors.

👉 How to Speed Up Your Progress in Jiu-Jitsu and Kickboxing?

✅ Stay consistent — 2 to 4 times per week is ideal.

✅ Take care of your body — healthy eating, hydration, and proper sleep.

✅ Be open to feedback — learn from your mistakes.

✅ Practice outside of class — watch videos, matches, and technical drills.

👉 How Long Will It Take You to Get Good?

Modality	First Results	Technical Confidence	Considered “Good”
Jiu Jitsu	1 to 3 months	6 months to 1 year	3 to 5 years
Kickboxing	1 to 2 months	3 to 6 months	1 to 3 years

At American Top Team, you’ll find:

✅ Professional support.

✅ A welcoming and safe environment to learn at your pace.

✅ Training for all ages and levels — from beginner to advanced.

 Book your trial class today!