Basic Jiu Jitsu Terminology Every Beginner Should Know

Basic Jiu Jitsu Terminology Every Beginner Should Know

Starting Jiu Jitsu can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the first challenges you might encounter is the language used on the mats. Jiu Jitsu, like any specialized practice, has its own terminology that may seem like a foreign language at first. To help you get comfortable and confident, here’s a glossary of essential terms and phrases every beginner should know.

1. Gi

The traditional uniform worn in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), consisting of a jacket, pants, and a belt. The Gi is also used during training and competition for various grips and techniques.

2. No-Gi

A style of Jiu Jitsu that is practiced without the traditional Gi. In No-Gi, practitioners typically wear rash guards and shorts. The techniques in No-Gi rely more on controlling the opponent’s body rather than using the fabric of the Gi.

3. Tap/Tapping Out

This is how a practitioner signals submission, effectively ending the round or match. A tap can be made by physically tapping the opponent or the mat, or verbally saying “tap.” It’s an important safety measure to prevent injury.

4. Guard

A fundamental position in Jiu Jitsu where one practitioner is on their back while their opponent is between their legs. The guard is a versatile position that allows for both defensive and offensive techniques.

5. Mount

A dominant position where one practitioner sits on top of their opponent’s torso. From the mount, the top practitioner can apply various submissions or maintain control.

6. Side Control

A position where the practitioner is beside their opponent, controlling them with their bodyweight. Side control is a dominant position that allows for transitions to other positions or submission attempts.

7. Sweeps

Techniques used from the guard to reverse positions, moving the practitioner from the bottom to the top. Sweeps are an essential part of guard work.

8. Submission

A technique designed to force the opponent to submit or “tap out,” often by applying joint locks or chokeholds. Common submissions include the armbar, triangle choke, and rear-naked choke.

9. Choke

A submission technique that restricts the opponent’s airflow (air choke) or blood flow (blood choke) to induce unconsciousness or tap out. Examples include the rear-naked choke and guillotine.

10. Joint Lock

A submission that targets the opponent’s joints, such as the elbow or knee, by applying pressure in a way that causes pain or damage. Armbar and kimura are common joint locks.

11. Kimura

A specific shoulder lock submission that is applied by controlling the opponent’s wrist with both hands and using the practitioner’s body to rotate the opponent’s arm behind their back.

12. Armbar

A submission technique that hyperextends the opponent’s elbow by trapping their arm between the legs and using the hips to apply pressure.

13. Inside Position

This is the space between the hip and armpit. Occupying or denying the inside position can dictate who is in control.

14. Shrimping

A fundamental movement where the practitioner uses their hips to create space and escape from inferior positions. It’s also known as the hip escape.

15. Passing the Guard

The act of maneuvering around an opponent’s legs (guard) to establish a more dominant position like side control or mount.

16. Rolling

Jiu Jitsu’s term for sparring. During a roll, practitioners engage in a live, free-flowing practice of techniques with a partner. It’s an essential part of training to apply what you’ve learned in a controlled environment.

17. Sprawl

A defensive movement used to counter an opponent’s takedown attempt. The practitioner pushes their hips to the ground and extends their legs back to prevent being taken down.

18. Reap

A movement or technique where the practitioner uses their leg to control or off-balance the opponent’s leg, often leading to a sweep or submission. In competition, certain types of reaping can be illegal, depending on the ruleset.

19. Bridge

A movement where the practitioner arches their back to create space or escape from a bad position, such as when trapped under the mount.

20. Base

A term used to describe the stability and balance of a practitioner. Having a good base means being able to resist sweeps and maintain control over your opponent.

Understanding these basic terms is a crucial step in becoming fluent in the “language” of Jiu Jitsu. As you continue to train, you’ll encounter more advanced terminology, but these foundational words will give you a strong start.