The debate between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has been going on for years. While BJJ was originally designed mainly as a system of techniques to use for self defense and is excellent if trained with that intention, MMA covers a wider array of techniques from a variety of disciplines
MMA: A Comprehensive Fighting Style
MMA is a comprehensive style that incorporates elements from various martial arts disciplines, including boxing, Muay Thai, kickboxing, wrestling, and of course, BJJ. Training in MMA means you will incorporate BJJ into the routine, so even at beginner levels, you will have much more ground skills than any regular person.
The Benefits of MMA
MMA is an effective form of self-defense, as it teaches you how to defend yourself in a variety of situations. It also helps to improve your physical fitness, as it requires a great deal of strength, agility, and endurance. Additionally, MMA can help to build self-confidence and discipline, as it requires you to stay focused and determined in order to succeed.
The Benefits of BJJ
BJJ is an excellent form of self-defense, as it teaches you how to control an opponent on the ground and use leverage to your advantage. It also helps to improve your physical fitness, as it requires a great deal of strength, flexibility, and coordination. Additionally, BJJ can help to build self-confidence and discipline, as it requires you to stay focused and determined in order to succeed. BJJ is also easier on the body, you can train jiu-jitsu safely for much longer time periods than MMA as concussions and impact don’t factor in.
The Verdict
When it comes to the debate between BJJ and MMA, MMA is the clear winner. MMA incorporates elements from various martial arts disciplines, including BJJ, so it is a more comprehensive form of self-defense. But MMA is also more taxing to your body so it really depends on what you’re aiming for.
If you are looking to learn more about BJJ, we recommend checking out the following books on Amazon:
Jiu-Jitsu University by Saulo Ribeiro
Mastering Jujitsu by Renzo Gracie
John Davis is a dedicated practitioner of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, having first started training in the martial art in 2011. Despite facing significant knee issues that have sidelined him for a period, John remains passionate about the sport and continues to follow all the latest developments in the BJJ community.