Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a prominent martial art that requires a lot of skill and knowledge to be successful. Many different techniques need to be mastered to become proficient in the sport.
While much of this can be learned through drilling and practicing, many other things can be understood by reading the best jiu-jitsu books.
The following sections will examine some of the best Brazilian jiu-jitsu books. So, if you’re looking for the best ways to improve your skills, then make sure to check out these titles!
What Are the Best Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Books of All the Time?
Many excellent BJJ books are available to help you improve your grappling abilities. Some are better than others, and some may even be necessary for your grappling development.
Here are some of the best jiu-jitsu books we believe you should read!
|
Book Title |
Student Level |
Visit |
| Jiu-Jitsu University | White to black belt | Check out this book on Amazon |
| The Gracie Way | White to black belt | Check out this book on Amazon |
| Jiu-Jitsu and Life | White to black belt | Check out this book on Amazon |
| The Black Belt Blueprint | White to black belt | Check out this book on Amazon |
| Mastering JuJitsu | White to black belt | Check out this book on Amazon |
| Drill to Win | White to black belt competitors | Check out this book on Amazon |
| The Grappler’s Handbook | White to black belt gi and no-gi grappler | Check out this book on Amazon |
| The Ultimate Guide to Dominating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | White to black belt competitors | Check out this book on Amazon |
| Advanced Jiu-Jitsu | Gi/No-gi Purple belt grapplers and above | Check out this book on Amazon |
| Zen Jiu Jitsu | Beginner white belts | Check out this book on Amazon |
| Mastering the 21 Immutable Principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu | Especially for beginners | Check out this book on Amazon |
| A Roadmap for BJJ | White to black belt | Check out this book on Amazon |
| Rules for White Belts | For white belts | Check out this book on Amazon |
Jiu-Jitsu University
The “Jiu-Jitsu University” is one of the best BJJ books you should read, whether a beginner white belt or an advanced practitioner. It’s a fully comprehensive guide that teaches you great concepts and principles.
Saulo Ribeiro is a world-renowned black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Judo. He is a legendary competitor and a five-time world champion.
He has also written several highly regarded books, making him one of the most influential voices in grappling.
In Jiu-Jitsu University, Ribeiro reveals his revolutionary grappling system and outlines over two hundred techniques, from white to black belt.
This book is indispensable for grappling students because it sheds light on common jiu-jitsu mistakes and then illustrates practical solutions to those missteps.
Overall, Jiu-Jitsu University has a detailed training manual that teaches everything from the basics of the sport to more advanced techniques.
Besides, it covers things clearly and concisely using plenty of graphics and pictures, making it easy to read and understand.
The Gracie Way
The Gracie Way is one of the best books for BJJ beginners to learn in-depth about the history of this grappling discipline. It was written by Kid Peligro, a martial artist and a black belt under Royler Gracie.
Aside from that, Kid is a two-time world masters champion and an active instructor. In addition, he is a well-known blogger and author of various publications.
In “The Gracie Way,” Kid covers the history of Gracie jiu-jitsu and discusses the sport’s different styles.
This book also provides readers with a wealth of information on techniques and training methods.
The Gracie Way is an inspirational book for anyone interested in learning more about Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Jiu-Jitsu and Life
Jiu-Jitsu and Life is a perfect book to read to learn how to turn training difficulties and sacrifices into outstanding achievements. It was written by Travis Tooke, one of the world’s most elite grapplers.
Besides, Travis has been an active professional BJJ and MMA coach for several years at his academy, Travis Tooke’s martial arts school, located in Willowbrook, Houston.
Aside from that, he has written several good martial arts books, including “Jiu-Jitsu and Life.”
In “Jiu-Jitsu and Life.”, Travis cites numerous valuable life lessons gained while training in this martial art discipline. He underlines his training journey from Houston to Dallas to Rio de Janeiro.
On his jiu-jitsu trip, Travis encounters mentors, charlatans, friends, and liars. Nonetheless, he developed a solid foundation to pursue his passion for teaching martial arts.
He discusses his unassuming beginnings in martial arts and how he pushes himself to improve by learning from his many mistakes.
Indeed, Travis walks you through how he was able to triumph over all of these challenges to realize his most incredible dream of opening one of the most successful jiu-jitsu schools in Texas.
The Black Belt Blueprint
The Black Belt Blueprint is one of the best BJJ books for devoted students. In this book, Nicolas Gregoriades is Roger Gracie’s first black belt and a famous South African grappler.
Nic provides a clever strategy to achieve the black belt rank in his book correctly.
It covers the journey from beginner white belt to black belt, including several tactics and concepts to improve your overall performance on and out of the mat.
Anyone looking to improve his Brazilian jiu-jitsu should look no further than this book because of its rich information and excellent resources.
Mastering JuJitsu
Mastering Jujitsu, written by Renzo Gracie, John Danaher, and Carlos Gracie Jr., is an excellent book for all devoted jiu-jitsu practitioners.
Renzo Gracie is a legendary athlete and one of the Gracie family’s most successful members. Indeed, Renzo is a 6th-degree black belt the grandson of Carlos Gracie and the son of Robson Gracie, both red belts in jiu-jitsu.
Aside from that, Renzo is the founder and head coach of the Renzo Gracie Academy, established in 1990 and becoming one of the cornerstones of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in North America.
- John Danaher is regarded as one of the most influential coaches in the martial arts world. Otherwise, he is a black belt under Renzo Gracie and works as a professor at Renzo’s academy in New York.
- Carlos Gracie Jr. is a grandmaster who grew up learning martial arts. Otherwise, Carlos is the founder of the Gracie Barra jiu-jitsu school. He is well-known for his effective teaching methods, solid philosophical foundation, and successful fighting mindset.
- Mastering Jujitsu provides an excellent overview of jiu-jitsu martial art concepts not covered in standard and traditional technique books. This jiu-jitsu book contains everything you could want to know about Jiu-Jitsu from three of the most accomplished instructors in the field.
This book will help you advance your martial arts knowledge through excellent strategic planning, tactical execution, and specific technical and detailed instructions.
Drill to Win
Drill to Win by Andre Galvao is a good book for devoted Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitors.
Andre Galvao is a legendary black belt and several-time Brazilian jiu-jitsu world champion. He is also the head instructor of Atos Jiu Jitsu in San Diego, California.
In addition, he enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for grappling martial arts with his students.
In his book Drill to Win, Prof. Andre Galvo demonstrates his practical drilling approach for competitors. Indeed, it elucidates the relationship between techniques and drills.
Therefore, This book is jam-packed with information on weight loss and mental preparation.
The Grappler’s Handbook: Gi and No-Gi Techniques
The Grappler’s Handbook: Gi and No-Gi Techniques is an essential guide to Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Written by black belts, Jean Jacques Machado and Jay Zeballos provide an integrated strategy to become more effective in gi and no-gi training.
In his book, world-renowned instructor Jean Jacques Machado reveals the secrets hidden inside gi and no-gi techniques.
He walks you through excellent training tactics and practical systems such as takedowns, guard passes, counters, and submissions.
Here is what you can learn from The Grappler’s Handbook:
- Smooth transition between gi and no-gi techniques.
- Strengthening of each submission-fighting art.
- Make use of an opponent’s weaknesses regardless of the grappling environment.
- Gain dominant positions and execute fight-ending attacks from practically any angle.
Gracie Submission Essentials
The Gracie Submission Essentials is one of the best Brazilian jiu-jitsu books written by Helio Gracie, Royler Gracie, and Kid Peligro.
When you look at this book, you realize it is a work of art demonstrating the favorite Gracie submission techniques.
Otherwise, it highlights healthy and effective combinations for anyone to become a savage grappling competitor.
Indeed, Gracie’s Submission Essentials includes personal pieces of advice on physical and mental training.
Indeed, it teaches an in-depth understanding of the end game of a match, among other things.
Advanced Jiu-Jitsu
The Advanced Jiu-Jitsu is another fantastic book about Brazilian jiu-jitsu that you should read. It is written by Marcelo Garcia, a well-known black belt who has won numerous significant tournaments (ADCC, World Gi and No-Gi Championships, etc.).
In his book The Advanced Jiu-Jitsu, Marcelo Garcia discusses the advanced techniques and submissions that helped him conquer many elite competitors.
These movements include the guillotine choke, omoplata, and other highly successful moves.
As a result, this BJJ book will help you enhance your grappling skills by teaching you a legendary grappler’s tactics and training methods.
The Ultimate Guide
The Ultimate Guide is among the best jiu-jitsu books to dominate Brazilian jiu-jitsu and MMA. It was written by Alexandre Paiva, best known by his ring handle “Gigi,” and a black belt under Romero Cavalcanti.
In addition, Alexandre is a well-known character in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and was one of the original members of the Alliance Jiu-Jitsu team, together with Master Romero “Jacaré” Cavalcanti and Fabio Gurgel.
In his book, Alexandre Paiva reveals several compelling and brutal strategies for competitors.
Aside from that, the book has over a thousand images in full color of him performing those maneuvers, including takedowns, closed-guard attacks, half-guard submissions, rear mount attacks, and many other outstanding techniques.
Mastering the 21 Immutable Principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Mastering the 21 Immutable Principles of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is another excellent book Paulo Guillobel wrote.
Paulo Guillobel is a martial artist and author. He holds a black belt in the art of jiu-jitsu under Jorge Pereira.
Otherwise, he has an impressive grappling career with several accomplishments, including the World Master No-Gi and Pan American Championships.
Paulo is a well-known instructor and the founder of the Guillobel Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu San Clemente Academy.
In his book, Paulo Guillobel covers the fundamental principles of art. He provides practical advice on applying them in your training session and sparring.
Zen Jiu Jitsu: White to Blue
The “Zen Jiu Jitsu: White to Blue” by Oliver Staark is one of the best books for BJJ beginner practitioners. It will help them get promoted from white belt to blue belt properly.
In this book, Oliver Staark provides an overview of the history of BJJ. He covers all the basics, from stances and grips to submissions and escapes.
He also includes helpful tips on practicing and improving new techniques, including the closed guard, full mount, etc.
Therefore, the “Zen Jiu Jitsu: White to Blue” resource is helpful. It will improve my understanding of Brazilian jiu-jitsu and help me learn some basic techniques properly.
A Roadmap for BJJ
A Roadmap for BJJ is another good book for anyone interested in learning the art of BJJ. It was written by Stephan Kesting and contained many advice and methods for sparring improvement.
This book is a holistic guide to combat sports, providing readers with detailed explanations of various fundamental positions and techniques.
Otherwise, it will help practitioners perform the highest percentage of submissions and escape from those jiu-jitsu positions.
Indeed, Kesting shares his top tips for maximizing your training sessions while minimizing injury risk.
Stephan Kesting has over two decades of experience in martial arts, so you can trust that his advice is reliable and worth following.
Jiu Jitsu Training Secrets
The Jiu Jitsu Training Secrets by Nicolas Gregoriades is one of the best BJJ books. It cites some fantastic tips, tricks, and secrets to help you improve your Brazilian jiu-jitsu game.
Aside from that, Nicolas Gregoriades is Roger Gracie’s black belt, Jiu Jitsu Brotherhood founder, and one of the best influencers in the jiu-jitsu field.
In his book Jiu Jitsu Training Secrets, Nic reveals 101 of the most valuable and practical concepts, tips, and little-known secrets learned in several years of practicing jiu-jitsu and teaching worldwide.
Nic knows what it takes to be a successful practitioner, and his book provides advice to help you achieve your training goals.
Choque: The Untold Story of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil
The Choque by Roberto Pedreira is another helpful book for jiu-jitsu practitioners. It provides an in-depth look at the sport’s origins and is a must-read for any jiu-jitsu enthusiast.
Robert Pedreira is a renowned author and martial artist. He has trained, taught, and written about Brazilian jiu-jitsu for over 20 years.
In Choque, Pedreira provides a detailed account of the sport’s early days, from its inception in Brazil to its spread worldwide.
He also offers insights into the lives of the pioneers of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, including Carlos Gracie, Helio Gracie, and more.
Opening Closed Guard
Robert Drysdale’s book, Opening Closed Guard, is a must-read for any Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner.
Drysdale discusses the importance of proper technique and offers tips and tricks for improving your game. He also provides an in-depth look at the closed guard, an essential position for any jiu-jitsu player.
Opening Closed Guard offers a wealth of information applicable to your game. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, you’ll be able to find helpful information in this book.
In addition, Drysdale is a highly experienced jiu-jitsu player and teacher, so that you can trust his advice is reliable and worth following.
Rules for White Belts
If you’re a white belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, check out Rules for White Belts by Chris Matakas. This book is a training manual to help you take your jiu-jitsu skills to the next level.
Matakas is a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and has trained and taught the sport for over 20 years.
In Rules for White Belts, he provides a detailed roadmap for beginners that covers everything from basic techniques to advanced concepts. He also offers tips and advice for training and competing effectively.
Can You Learn Jiu-Jitsu from a Book?
Yes, you can learn Brazilian jiu-jitsu from a book. However, it is essential to note that readers can only provide so much information. Furthermore, they cannot compensate for the advantages of attending a live class.
If you cannot participate in a live class, books are a terrific way to learn the fundamentals of jiu-jitsu.
It’s an excellent choice for beginners because it provides fundamental instruction on jiu-jitsu techniques and concepts. They also offer advice on how to train and compete effectively.
To become proficient in jiu-jitsu, you must regularly practice with an experienced instructor who will assist you in scaling your game and martial arts learning.
Why Are Best BJJ Books Great for Learning?
Best jiu-jitsu books are excellent learning tools because they contain information that will help you improve your game. These books will provide helpful knowledge whether you are a beginner or an experienced player.
BJJ books are a good option for beginners because they teach the fundamental techniques and concepts of jiu-jitsu. They also provide advice on how to train and compete effectively.
Therefore, at all colored belt levels, books are essential in developing high-level grapplers.
Additionally, it is among the best ways to level up your BJJ understanding by utilizing every available learning tool to advance your career.
Should You Read Jiu-Jitsu Books?
Best Brazilian jiu-jitsu books can provide information on martial arts techniques, tactics, history, etc.
As a result, they are an excellent tool to get motivated and learn the basics of BJJ to scale your game, whether you are a beginner or an experienced player.
BJJ books are an excellent alternative for anyone learning more about the sport. They teach the essential strategies and advice on training and competing correctly.
Nevertheless, books can only offer access to a limited amount of knowledge. Jiu-jitsu is a martial art that requires consistent practice under the guidance of an experienced instructor to achieve mastery.
Therefore, even if books can benefit learning the fundamentals of jiu-jitsu, you shouldn’t rely on them as your only source of martial arts knowledge.
Instead, your workout should consist of frequent practice at home or attending class sessions held at a BJJ academy.
Conclusion
Numerous excellent Brazilian jiu-jitsu books are available to assist you in enhancing your skills, whether you are a newbie or an experienced BJJ practitioner.
Books are fantastic resources that can assist you in becoming more proficient in the art of BJJ. This is because they provide you with helpful and practical guides for:
- Correct your common jiu-jitsu errors using valuable remedies.
- Learning about the history of this grappling sport.
- Learning submissions, takedowns, ground grappling, and other techniques.
- Level up your fitness abilities for jiu-jitsu training.
- Learning about the invisible jiu-jitsu.
- Adopting the right mindset and strategies for a successful martial arts experience.
As a result, if you implement them appropriately throughout BJJ training, sparring, and tournaments, you will significantly improve your martial arts talents.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick up one (or all) of these jiu-jitsu books and start learning immediately!
