Starting Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is exciting and full of new skills to master. If you’ve just signed up for a Jiu Jitsu membership or searched for “Jiu Jitsu near me,” this guide will help you understand the basic techniques every beginner should learn. Mastering these moves will set a strong foundation for your journey.
1. The Guard Position
The guard position is essential in BJJ. It lets you control your opponent while on your back, using your legs to defend and attack.
- Closed Guard: Wrap your legs around your opponent’s waist.
- Open Guard: Use your feet and grips to manage distance and prepare for sweeps.
- Half Guard: Trap one of your opponent’s legs to defend or attack.
2. Shrimping (Hip Escape)
Shrimping is a basic move to create space and escape from bad positions. Push off the ground with your feet and move your hips back.
- Why It’s Important:
- Helps escape side control or mount.
- Forms the base for more advanced techniques.
3. The Bridge
The bridge uses your hips to generate power and escape dominant positions like the mount.
- How It’s Used:
- Combine with shrimping to escape.
- Reverse positions to gain control.
4. The Armbar
The armbar is a common submission where you trap your opponent’s arm and apply pressure to their elbow joint.
- Steps:
- Control their arm.
- Position your hips perpendicular to their body.
- Use your legs to apply leverage.
5. Rear Naked Choke (RNC)
The RNC is a powerful submission that cuts off blood flow to your opponent’s neck.
- Steps:
- Take their back and secure hooks with your legs.
- Wrap your arm around their neck.
- Lock your grip and apply pressure.
6. The Kimura
The Kimura is a shoulder lock that works in many positions.
- How It Works:
- Grab your opponent’s wrist.
- Use your other hand to hold your wrist.
- Rotate their arm for the submission.
7. The Triangle Choke
The triangle choke traps your opponent’s neck and arm between your legs, cutting off blood flow.
- Key Steps:
- Position one leg across their neck.
- Lock your legs into a triangle shape.
- Squeeze to finish.
8. Sweeps
Sweeps let you reverse positions and gain control.
- Popular Sweeps:
- Scissor Sweep: Use a scissoring motion with your legs.
- Hip Bump Sweep: Use your hips to off-balance your opponent.
Tips for Beginners
- Be Consistent: Practice regularly to build skills.
- Focus on Basics: Don’t rush to advanced techniques.
- Find a Good Gym: Search for “Jiu Jitsu near me” to find beginner-friendly gyms.
- Be Patient: Progress takes time—celebrate small wins.
Why the Basics Matter The basics are the foundation of all advanced moves. Techniques like guard control, shrimping, and submissions are skills you’ll use at every level of BJJ.
Conclusion
Starting with the basics is the best way to grow in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Whether you’ve joined a Jiu Jitsu membership or searched for “Jiu Jitsu near me,” focus on mastering foundational moves like guard control, shrimping, and basic submissions. With consistency and patience, you’ll build the skills to advance in your BJJ journey.Ready to start training? Visit BJJ Society to find expert coaches and a supportive community to help you on your path.
1. What are the most important techniques for beginners?
The guard position, shrimping, bridge, armbar, rear naked choke, Kimura, triangle choke, and basic sweeps
2. Do I need to be fit to start Jiu Jitsu?
No, anyone can start. BJJ improves your fitness as you practice.
3. How often should I train as a beginner?
2-3 times per week is ideal to build skills and stay consistent.
4. Can I practice these moves at home?
You can practice basics like shrimping, but most techniques require a partner. Joining a Jiu Jitsu membership is the best way to learn properly.
5. Why are the basics so important?
The basics are used in every level of BJJ. Without mastering them, advanced moves will be harder to learn.
