LEARN BJJ
Guides, resources, and answers to every beginner question — written by the coaches at Method Jiu-Jitsu in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
GETTING STARTED
New to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? These guides answer the most common beginner questions before you ever step on the mat.
What Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
A complete introduction to BJJ — the ground-based martial art that rewards technique and leverage over size and strength.
Read Article BeginnerWhat to Expect Your First Class
Walk through a typical beginner class step by step — so nothing surprises you when you show up for the first time.
Read Article BeginnerWhat to Wear to BJJ
From your first trial class to buying your first gi — exactly what to wear for Gi class, No Gi class, and everything in between.
Read Article BeginnerBJJ Etiquette
The unwritten rules every beginner should know — from mat hygiene to tapping, respect, and how to be a great training partner.
Read Article BeginnerHow to Choose a BJJ Gym
Seven criteria to evaluate before you sign up anywhere — instructor credentials, culture, curriculum, cleanliness, and more.
Read ArticlePOSITIONS & TECHNIQUES
Understanding positional hierarchy is the foundation of BJJ. These guides break down the most important positions and how they work.
The Guard — BJJ's Most Versatile Position
What the guard is, why it exists, and how it lets the bottom player attack from their back using legs as primary weapons.
Read Article TechniqueMount Position Explained
One of the highest-value positions in BJJ — learn why mount is so dominant and how to use it effectively.
Read Article TechniqueSide Control — Pinning and Attacking
Side control is often the first dominant position beginners learn to hold. Here is how to make it effective.
Read Article TechniqueClosed Guard — The Classic Bottom Position
The closed guard is where most beginners start their guard journey. Master the basics here.
Read Article TechniqueHalf Guard — Between Guard and Side Control
The half guard is misunderstood by beginners but beloved by experienced grapplers. Learn why.
Read Article TechniqueBack Control — The Highest-Value Position
Taking the back is worth the most points in competition for good reason. This is how to get there and what to do with it.
Read Article TechniqueBJJ Submissions — A Beginner's Guide
Chokes, armlocks, leglocks — an overview of the most common submission categories and how they work mechanically.
Read ArticleBJJ KNOWLEDGE
Deeper dives into the culture, structure, and science of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — from belts to benefits to the big questions beginners ask.
The BJJ Belt System Explained
White, blue, purple, brown, black — what each belt represents, how long it takes, and what promotion looks like at Method.
Read Article CultureGi vs No Gi BJJ
What is the difference between training in a kimono and training in shorts and a rash guard? Which is better for you?
Read Article Lifestyle10 Benefits of BJJ
Physical fitness, self-defense, stress relief, community, discipline — the full case for why BJJ is more than a sport.
Read Article LifestyleBJJ for Fitness — A Complete Workout?
Can BJJ replace the gym? An honest look at the cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility demands of regular training.
Read Article CultureBJJ vs Other Martial Arts
How does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu compare to wrestling, judo, Muay Thai, and MMA? What makes it unique?
Read Article ProgressHow Long Does It Take to Get a Blue Belt?
The honest answer — average timelines, what instructors look for, and how to accelerate your progress.
Read Article SafetyIs BJJ Safe? What the Data Says
A balanced look at injury rates, common risk factors, and how a good gym culture keeps training safe for everyone.
Read Article ReferenceBJJ Terminology Glossary
From armbar to Upa — a plain-English glossary of the terms, positions, and techniques you will hear in every class.
Read ArticleREADY TO STOP READING AND START TRAINING?
Your first class at Method Jiu-Jitsu is completely free. No experience required.
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