Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Brazilian jiu-jitsu - everything you need to train can be found at SportanoBrazilian jiu-jitsu, often referred to as BJJ, is one of the most popular and effective forms of martial arts in the world. Although the roots of jiu-jitsu can be traced back to feudal Japan, the Brazilian variant of this martial art developed in the 20th century, mainly thanks to the Gracie family. BJJ focuses on hand-to-hand combat, particularly leverage and strangulation techniques, and its philosophy is based on the fact that a physically weaker person can defeat a stronger opponent with the right technique and strategy. At Sportano, we offer quality products in the Brazilian jiu-jitsu category from brands such as MANTO, Ground Game, Hayabusa, Venum and Mizuno.Kimono and GI attire: significance and varietyBrazilian jiu-jitsu, as an evolution of a traditional Japanese martial art, has retained many elements, including a distinctive garment called the kimono or GI. This is no ordinary garment - it is a training tool that serves the student during each practice session. The kimono has been designed to withstand the intense pulling, tugging and all kinds of pressure that are typical in hand-to-hand combat. The traditional kimono consists of a thick jacket, trousers and belt. The jacket, usually made of a cotton grosgrain weave fabric, provides durability and strength. The trousers, although slightly lighter, are also durable, accommodating a variety of grappling techniques and leg movements. Different styles and designs of kimonos are available to suit the needs and tastes of different practitioners. Some GIs may have a more fitted cut, while others are looser, tailored to the individual athlete's preferences. Contemporary kimonos are often adorned with embroidery, patches and various designs that reflect the personality and style of the judoka. Regardless of the outward appearance, the key is to choose a kimono that is comfortable, durable and fits the body.Belts in Brazilian jiu-jitsu: hierarchy and significanceIn the world of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, the belt is not just a piece of clothing; it is a sign of an athlete's rank, progress and experience. Ranging from a white belt for beginners, to blue, purple, brown and black, to red for masters, the colour of the belt is indicative of years of dedication, study and refinement of techniques. For many practitioners, advancing to the next belt colour is an important milestone in their BJJ journey. It signifies not only an improvement in skill, but also a deeper understanding of the philosophy and strategy of this martial art. It is not just about technique, but also about character, discipline and dedication. However, advancement is not just a matter of time spent on the mat. It also requires proving one's skills in real-life combat situations, whether during sparring training or in competition. Each belt colour is a symbol of achievement, but also a reminder of the road ahead. Even black belt holders, often considered experts in BJJ, recognise that their learning journey never ends. In Brazilian jiu-jitsu, learning is an ongoing process and belts are signposts of that journey.Protectors in Brazilian jiu-jitsu: protection and performanceIn the world of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, where hand-to-hand combat mainly takes place on the mat, protecting the body from potential injury is crucial. This is where the importance of protectors comes into play. These specially designed accessories aim to minimise the risk of injury while allowing full freedom of movement. The use of protectors is not just a matter of protecting against injury, but also optimising performance during training. In BJJ, knee protectors are essential, given the number of movements and techniques involving the knees, such as tumbling attempts or techniques based on knee pressure. These protectors not only provide protection against abrasions on the mat, but also against the harder blows that can occur during a fight. Elbow protectors also play a key role, protecting against similar injuries. Another important piece of equipment is mouthguards. Although Brazilian jiu-jitsu does not focus on striking, accidents can happen and good mouth protection is essential to protect the teeth and gums from possible injury. These protectors are all designed for optimum performance and protection. They allow the judoka to focus on technique and fighting strategy without worrying about potential injuries.Accessories essential for Brazilian practitioners jiu-jitsuBrazilian jiu-jitsu, although focusing mainly on technique and strategy, requires certain accessories to aid in training and increase comfort. One of the basic accessories is the toe tape. BJJ often involves grappling and lock-ups, which require strong and stable fingers. The tape helps to strengthen them and protect them from injury. Another important accessory is pain relief ointment. Intense training can lead to muscle strains and minor injuries. Pain relief and anti-inflammatory ointments help to relieve pain and speed up recovery. Storage bags for kimono and other equipment are also key to organising and keeping equipment clean. With hygiene in mind, many also use antibacterial soaps and gels after training to prevent potential skin infections that can occur from contact with matzo. Massage rollers and stretching balls are excellent tools for those who want to increase their flexibility and muscle recovery after intense training sessions. They help to relax tight muscles and improve overall wellbeing. Finally, for those who want to document their progress and analyse their technique, a camera or smartphone with a video recording function can prove to be an invaluable tool. Video analysis allows you to analyse your movements in detail, identify mistakes and work on improving your technique. All of these accessories, although not mandatory, significantly improve the training experience and help to achieve success in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.