BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU
If you want to know a little more about our core martial art, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu then read the information across the page.
There is a massive amount of information online if you want to do some serious research.
If you just want to join the group then it’s really simple.
We don’t run any form of booking system, so just pick the class you want to attend, show up, train then if you want to join then set up your membership with the help of one of the coaches. That’s really it!
There are a few things however most people want to know so we thought we would just list them here.
FAQ - BJJ
What is the minimum age to do BJJ at TVMA?
- Usually we require 12 Years+Is BJJ good for women & girls?
- Yes we have several excellent female members and will welcome more!What gear do I need?
- A GI! (see our equipment section!)Do I need to book a session?
- NO! We don’t have a booking system, just show up!Is Jiu Jitsu dangerous?
- Like any contact sport it can be. Serious injuries however are very rare.Am I too old to do Jiu Jitsu?
- The average age at the club is probably 30, but we have members of up to 60 years old.Can I train just once a week?
- You can train weekly but the more you train the faster you improve!Is BJJ good for street defence?
- It’s better than nothing but it would not be the martial art we would recommend as a street defence system.
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? How many names can one martial art have as its also now often known as Jiu Jitsu, BJJ, No Gi Grappling (No gi Jiu jitsu), Gracie Jiu Jitsu and more!
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu traces its lineage back to traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu and Judo, but it evolved into a distinct form through the pioneering efforts of the Gracie family in Brazil. Focused on ground grappling and submission techniques, BJJ emphasises leverage, timing, and technique over brute strength. There is no striking in BJJ. The Jiu Jitsu Fighter looks to take his opponent to the floor and to submit via a joint lock or put his opponent to sleep using a choke.
Gi versus No Gi
If you are new to the sport but have a little research you will see there appears to be two forms of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, in the Gi and without the Gi or better know as No Gi.
The debate of which style of Jiu Jitsu is superior has raged for decades but the truth is they are simply different. The Gi is more technical, No Gi grappling faster and more aligned with those who are training for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).
BJJ Purists will argue that in the Gi is the true Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, it has more variation and a deeper technical base.
TVMA is primarily a Gi Jiu Jitsu club, however we spend time looking at No Gi techniques (especially in the Summer!)
Several of our coaches have wrestling and MMA experience, so we also train these styles, with plans for a dedicated MMA class in 2027.
HALO JIU JITSU
TVMA are proud to be affiliated with Halo Jiu Jitsu under Angel Lopez of the Tinguinha system of BJJ. As a Blue belt in 2013, with the encouragement of his Professor Luis “Speedy” Gonzales, Clovis BJJ was opened and would later become the name you will see today Halo Jiu-Jitsu.
A short time later Halo became an affiliate of Tinguinha BJJ under Mauricio Mariano aka Tinguinha the man made famous for his invention of the Spider Guard.
In 2016 he was promoted to the rank of Black Belt by Professors Speedy and Tinguinha.
Angel has competed all over the world at Black Belt level reaching the podium too many times to list. He is a genuine world class coach and competitor offering a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Why BJJ is So Popular!
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a multifaceted martial art that transcends boundaries and empowers individuals both on and off the mats. Whether you’re intrigued by its practical applications for self defence, competitive opportunities, or transformative potential for you body and mind, BJJ offers a rewarding path towards self-improvement.
The culture of Jiu Jitsu is like a worldwide family of like minded people which opens doors few other martial arts do. The mix of live application, physical challenge with the constant mental puzzle hooks many people from the first day they step on the mat, but anyone who has spent more than a few weeks doing this fascinating martial art will know it can very quickly become an obsession for your life!