Get Comp Fit: preparing for BJJ competitions in NSW

Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is sweeping the world with BJJ competitions running across NSW and the country. 

Are you ready to test your skills for the first time, or getting ready for the next comp? At Gracie Jiu Jitsu - Balmain, we love to help prepare our members for success at BJJ competitions. Get all the answers to your questions below, then let us help you prepare by signing up below for TWO weeks of training (up to 6 classes) for just $19! Perfect for: Complete beginners eager to explore.

Why should I train for BJJ competitions? 

At Gracie Balmain we know that consistent training is the only way to build confidence in your skills and ability to use them when needed. 

Competition is a great motivator to focus your training and consistency. With a competition goal set, you’ll be encouraged to sharpen your technique and put extra work into your strength, fitness and overall health.

Entering competitions also takes you out of the comfort zone of weekly training. As coaches, we’re able to see what techniques you use under pressure and what areas of your game to focus on for the most impact.

 

How do I know if I’m fit enough to compete in BJJ?

Whether it's your first competition or not, it helps to have a good degree of ‘game fitness’ that comes from rolling on the mats with other partners. It’s also important to have a game plan that outlines your attacking options (takedowns, sweeps, submissions and more) and your defensive options (key escapes, sweeps, breathing control and more). Working with professional and experienced BJJ coaches is crucial to getting ‘game fit’ and preparing you for competition.

 

Who should compete in BJJ competitions? 

No matter your belt colour or experience, we encourage all members to train hard and test themselves through competition. Divisions are based on skill level, weight and age. From kids to adults, men and women, masters and seniors, there’s a division for everyone who wants to compete. 

Do you find BJJ comps intimidating? Don’t worry. We have the Gi and No-Gi expertise to prepare you for comps running all year round. Register below for TWO weeks of training (up to 6 classes) for just $19!

What do I do on the day of my BJJ competition? 

We recommend all competitors arrive a minimum of 60 minutes before their match-up starts. This gives time for you to find your team, check and weigh in. If you’re competing in the Gi, you’ll need to bring a Gi that preferably shows the patch of your registered gym. If you’re competing No-Gi, try to wear skins that also represent your gym’s logo. 

Tournament formats are usually single elimination or round-robin pool format. Round robin tournaments mean competitors will compete in at least four different matches, meaning plenty of mat time! Medals will usually be awarded to 1st place, 2nd place, and 3rd place of each weight division.

What can I expect at a BJJ competition? 

A BJJ party! The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community is warm and welcoming to all ages, levels and backgrounds - it’s literally for everyone. Expect to see a competition crowd full of BJJ artists, coaches, families and friends cheering on several matches at a time. And don’t forget to grab an acai bowl before they’re sold out.

Best competitions on Smoothcomp BJJ in Sydney and NSW

Jiu Jitsu competitions take place all over Sydney and across the state of NSW. One of our personal favourites that we see many members participating in are the NSWBJJF Summer and Winter Cups. See below a shortlist of BJJ competitions coming up or check Smoothcomp BJJ for upcoming events across the country:

Do Jiu Jitsu tournaments pay in Australia?

Yes! The competition arm of BJJ is growing fast and there are Jiu Jitsu tournaments now paying cash prizes. While the biggest Jiu Jitsu competitions like ADCC are now paying hundreds of thousands in fight purses (and even more in sponsorships), the sport is still growing locally. For example, the 2022 BJJ Australian Open pays $600 cash to the Absolute NO-GI winner of each of the four belt divisions. As BJJ continues to build in popularity, we’ll see more competitions and bigger cash prizes up for grabs.

Heard enough? Start preparing for your next BJJ competition today

Ready to take the first step in mastering ‘the gentle art’ and getting BJJ comp fit? Register below for TWO weeks of training (up to 6 classes) for just $19! We’ll see you on the mats. 

joel costello