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CloseBrazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling and ground-based martial art that teaches a smaller, weaker person to defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent using technique and leverage. Over the last few decades, BJJ has become an international trend, popular among both athletes and self-defence enthusiasts. In Singapore, the sport has established an attractive position in the martial arts setting, and female participation has risen significantly. This growing movement resembles a global trend of women embracing BJJ not only for self-defence, but also to promote empowerment, improve physical fitness, and establish strong, supportive communities. Let’s take a deep dive into the reasons for BJJ to become popular among women in Singapore and worldwide.
While martial arts have been practiced for thousands of years, women have not had a significant presence in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu until very recently. There were a few women in self-defence videos in the 1930s and 1940s, but Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was not a viable professional option for women. However, women in Europe have a longer history of practicing Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. Women belonging to feminist movements even displayed a sign encouraging women to fight. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was recognised as a competitive sport in 1970, and 15 years later Yvone Duarte became the first female competitor.
In 1990, Yvone was the first woman to receive a black belt. She was also the person who, through sheer determination, secured a female division in the sport. Yvone convinced the Rio de Janeiro Federation (FJJERJ) to begin the first female division. The first competition took place in 1985, and it was also won by Yvone. Eventually, women began to make their appearance in BJJ in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with athletes such as Leticia Ribeiro and Kyra Gracie gaining international recognition. Their achievement paved the way for female practitioners worldwide, including Singapore. At present, women in BJJ are not only participants in the sport; they are also leaders, coaches, and competitors, driving the sport forward.
In recent years, there has been a significant growth in the number of women taking up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Singapore. Gyms and institutions that acknowledge and actively address the unique challenges that women confront have contributed to this growth. Women-only sessions, female teachers, and inclusive training environments have all encouraged more women to step into BJJ in Singapore.
Women’s divisions are now available in local and worldwide events, encouraging female athletes to strive for excellence in their sport. Female competitors’ skill and commitment are frequently highlighted in prestigious competitions such as the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro and the Copa de Singapura tournaments, highlighting their growing presence and achievements.
While Singapore is generally a safe place for people, especially women, to walk around in any place and at any time of the day or night, there are still cases of domestic violence. BJJ is one of the most practical martial arts for self-defence, especially among women. Its skills are intended to assist individuals in escaping dangerous situations and neutralising threats regardless of size or strength differences.
This means that in situations where a bigger and stronger partner could get violent or abusive, women will have a fighting chance in neutralizing and escaping these situations. Women in Singapore are increasingly understanding the value of self-defence, and BJJ offers a safe and effective way to improve these abilities.
The benefits of BJJ training include boosting one’s self-confidence and resilience. Women learn to overcome obstacles on the mat, which leads to increased self-confidence in their daily life. From thinking of ways to escape an undesirable position, to spotting openings for sweeps and submissions, the process of perfecting a move or defending against an opponent instills a sense of empowerment in women, allowing them to push beyond their limits.
BJJ is a complete body workout that boosts strength, flexibility, cardiovascular health, and endurance. Unlike standard gym schedules, BJJ’s dynamic nature keeps practitioners interested and motivated. BJJ is a wonderful option for women looking for a fun and effective way to stay active and fit. Because one is preoccupied with the actual challenges of the techniques, they often forget they are exercising in the process.
BJJ gyms frequently promote a strong feeling of community, with practitioners supporting and encouraging one another. For many women, enrolling in a BJJ class entails joining a network of people who have similar goals, whether it be getting fit, boosting their self-confidence or even achieving the rank of black belt. This connection continues beyond the mats, resulting in long-lasting friendships and support systems.
BJJ also caught the interest of numerous celebrity women worldwide. Stars such as Demi Lovato, Scarlett Johansson, and Millie Bobby Brown have joined the sport, increasing prominence for women in BJJ. Their participation highlights BJJ’s universal appeal and benefits for women of all backgrounds.
While most males at BJJ schools are respectful and supportive of their female teammates, some women may be hesitant to practice with male partners. As a woman-owned BJJ gym in Singapore, Gracie Barra Singapore recognises these issues and has established a safe environment for women to learn and thrive.
Women-only classes allow female practitioners to train in an atmosphere where they feel entirely comfortable. This inclusive approach helps to remove barriers that may deter women from participating in the sport, especially when they are just starting out. By creating a supportive and accepting environment, we ensure that women can focus on increasing their abilities and confidence without distractions. Wait no more, enroll in Gracie Barra Singapore women’s-only class and take your first step towards your BJJ journey!
