BJJ is gaining worldwide popularity due to its adaptability, effectiveness, and lack of resistance. So you may be wondering, what is the best age to start jiu-jitsu? Children as young as five or six can start learning Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which can improve their focus, grades, and overall happiness.
This guide provides tips for parents, students, and instructors on enrolling children in BJJ classes and the optimal age for studying.
Is Jiu-Jitsu Hard for Beginners?
Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art initially designed for anyone to learn, regardless of weight, size, or fitness level.
In this regard, it is not hard to learn grappling martial arts because there are no prerequisites, and it does not rely on your strength.
However, some techniques take time to master and may be difficult if you have never had any experience with martial arts before.
If you want to start training in BJJ, you will need an experienced instructor to guide you through learning this martial art.
What Is the Best Age to Start Jiu-Jitsu?
The thirteen- sixteen age group is the best for learning this martial art. Their minds are developed enough to follow training and lessons.
Indeed, their bodies are agile and energetic, sufficient to practice and refine different BJJ techniques.
The younger you start training, the more time you have to build strength, flexibility, and endurance.
Plus, the earlier you start, the more time you’ll have to improve your technique before you’re ready for an actual match!
Plus, your schedule will likely be flexible enough for frequent training sessions or competitions if you’re still in school.
Related: The Ultimate Jiu-Jitsu Hydration Calculator.
Are Tweens Old Enough to Start Jiu-Jitsu?
Do you want to get your child started on the path to becoming a BJJ professional? In that case, remember that there is no specific age at which they should begin.
The difficulty with forming your child too early is that they may develop an aversion to the sport if they are not ready. Most BJJ pros recommend starting your child at six or in first grade.
A general rule of thumb regarding sports is that it’s best to wait until your child has reached their growth spurt before beginning any new activity.
Then, of course, some children may be able to start classes earlier than others. But, this will depend mainly on their physical development as well as their cognitive abilities.
And suppose you are a Jiu Jitsu instructor or a gym owner. In that case, your mission is to make the class enjoyable and keep your students coming.
Is It Too Late for Me to Start Jiu-Jitsu?
No matter how old you are, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu still has much to offer, and you’re never too old to start training.
When you first start, it’s essential to find a school that can help you achieve your goals, regardless of what they are.
For example, if you want to compete in tournaments, finding a school with talented coaches and students who have competed before will be essential for your success.
Otherwise, will you learn self-defense techniques or general martial arts skills?
In that case, finding a school where the instructors are patient and kind will be necessary to keep you motivated and help you enjoy your time on the mats.
What Should I Do To Ensure My Student’s Success
Sometimes, the little things are the ones that matter. For example, as an instructor or a gym owner, your members’ experience must be a top priority.
The key to ensuring their success is to offer a safe and comfortable environment where they can practice their skills and improve. This is where you come in.
When students feel comfortable, they are more likely to want to return and continue working on their skill set.
Here are some tips To Ensure My Student’s Success in learning Jiu Jitsu
- Make sure there is enough space for everyone in the class so no one feels crowded
- Keep the temperature comfortable for everyone in the class
- Please get rid of any clutter around the mat area so it doesn’t distract from the lesson
- Be prepared before every class starts.
- Keep them updated for every class and event with the help of Spark Membership Software.
- Keep your class engaging.
- Provide separate classes for each age bracket to make sure it is appropriate for their age and skill level.
Related: Free 4-Week Jiu-Jitsu Training Tracker (Printable & Downloadable!)
Final Thoughts
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an excellent grappling martial art that aids physical fitness, flexibility, and coordination. Regardless of age, the techniques will allow anyone to get stronger.
This makes Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu an excellent martial art, especially for children and teenagers, because it will enable the early formation of beneficial habits while preventing reliance on strength.
