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Glam Monitor

Is 40 too old for BJJ?

Author

Daniel Foster

Updated on June 09, 2026

The answer is simple: “NO!” We have students over 40 years old on the mat training with us, “You are NOT too old to start training Jiu-jitsu, but you will get way older when you do NOT train jiu-jitsu”. A quick look at our BJJ classes pictures you will see a number of BJJ students who are over 40 years of age.

What age is too late for BJJ?

It doesn't matter if you're starting at 5 or 65, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu still has a lot to offer you and it's never too late to start training. Whether you need a new hobby, want to loose weight, or just need a new way to challenge yourself physically and mentally BJJ is for you!

Can old guys do BJJ?

Old Person Jiu Jitsu Teaches Persistence

The average older jiu jitsu practioner who is a hobbyist training 2-3 times a week, more than likely has job, family, or other responsibilities that compete with their BJJ training.

What is the best age to start BJJ?

Most BJJ professionals suggest starting your child around the age of six or when they are in first grade. That's because they've already developed a basic level of independence.

Should I start Jiu-Jitsu later in life?

Yes. Lots of people start BJJ later in life. The key to being successful in BJJ at a later age is to take the training at your own pace and be careful of expecting too much of yourself. Ego and overwork can get you frustrated or injured.

32 related questions found

Is BJJ good for older adults?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most popular martial arts courses for seniors due to its aerobic benefits. Grip strength and hip mobility decrease past the age of 50 and BJJ specifically develops these through routines that are advantageous to seniors.

Is 35 too old to learn BJJ?

BJJ after 30: readers share why they started and what benefits they get from training. There's no right age to start training Jiu-Jitsu. Doesn't matter if you are a 5 years old child or already over 60, the gentle art has a lot to offer you.

How many days a week should you train BJJ?

Two days per week

Twice per week is the bare minimum for consistent progress. If you are recreationally interested in BJJ but cannot afford the time to make more classes, twice per week will improve your BJJ. If you hope to get a black belt or compete, then training more than twice per week is needed.

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu good for self defense?

Jiu-Jitsu is perfect for self defense and protection.

Jiu-Jitsu is dedicated to knocking down opponents to the ground to rest and conquer them. This is very effective because it not only protects you from unnecessary blows but also allows you to control your opponent without damaging them.

Do you have to be flexible to do Jiu Jitsu?

You DO require a certain level of flexibility for Jiu-Jitsu – true. And the majority of experienced Jiu-Jitsu belts will be significantly more flexible than the average individual.

Can you learn martial arts in your 40s?

If you haven't exercised much before, your 40's is a great time to kick start a martial arts training regime and take charge of your health. As we get older, physiological changes cause us to start losing muscle, and our bones weaken as bone density reduces.

What belt was Anthony Bourdain?

Bourdain spoke about his commitment to BJJ and how he would always make time for training no matter where he was in the world. It was this kind of dedication that led to him being awarded his Blue Belt. Sadly, he took his own life in 2018, just 17 days shy of his 62nd birthday.

Can I learn Jiu Jitsu 40?

You can definitely start your Jiu-Jitsu journey in your 40s, 50s and even 60s, but that doesn't mean it'll be as easy as starting it at 18. There are two factors to address if you're an older guy or gal starting grappling: recovery and flexibility.

How many calories burned doing BJJ?

Total: 706 calories in an hour.

If you stick around and do 5 or 6 five-minute rounds, that would shoot up to over 1100 calories. It's no wonder people lose weight doing BJJ.

Is Jiu Jitsu a good way to get in shape?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a great way to get in shape. Not only will you lose weight and increase muscle strength, but you'll improve flexibility and coordination and benefit from better health overall.

Is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu good for you?

Build Body Strength

Jiu-Jitsu is a great way to build your body and tone up your muscles. As you will put all your muscles to work during training sessions, your muscles will become stronger. As such, your body will become stronger.

What martial art do Navy SEALs learn?

Krav Maga. Krav Maga is a brutal martial art learned by the SEALs. Krav Maga translates from Hebrew to mean “contact combat.” It is an Israeli martial art used by Israel's commandos and special forces.

Is BJJ better than Krav Maga?

Best choice for competition. If you're looking to compete in a martial art then BJJ is definitely the better of the two martial arts to start. As mentioned above, Krav Maga organizations specifically do not hold competitions. This is because competition is against the goal of Krav Maga which is self-defence.

Which is better Krav Maga or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Which Is The Better Self Defense Practice For Real Life? The bottom line when looking at Krav Maga vs Jiu Jitsu is effectiveness. BJJ is great for tournaments, an excellent complement to a strike-only fighting style, and has some definite self-defense benefits when confronted with a single attacker.

Should I lift weights for BJJ?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) fighters lift weights in order to improve their power-to-weight ratio (PWR), performance, and health. BJJ fighters who lift will typically focus on compound exercises (squats, bench, etc.) as these are the best moves to improve PWR. Power-to-weight ratio is so crucial in martial arts.

How long are you a white belt in BJJ?

It is common for someone just starting out in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) to ask how long they'll be a white belt before they get a blue belt. On average you will be a white belt for 2-3 years before getting a blue belt in BJJ.

How much BJJ is too much?

It is generally advised to train at least 2 or 3 times per week if you want to make progress and retain your skills. This is probably a good limit for new students who will need time for their bodies to adjust to working new muscle groups.

Can you lose weight doing jiu-jitsu?

Even if you've never stepped foot on a mat before, we all need to start somewhere. In terms of calories burned, BJJ can be a highly effective weight-loss tool.

What are the 32 principles of BJJ?

The 32 Principles represent different ways of achieving efficiency, which is the apex principle of Jiu-jitsu.
...
The 32 Principles: Achieving Artistry (Part 3 of 3)

  • Connection. ...
  • Detachment. ...
  • Distance. ...
  • Pyramid. ...
  • Creation. ...
  • Acceptance. ...
  • Velocity. ...
  • Clock.

How long can you do BJJ?

I have seen many people start BJJ only to stop six months to a year later due to burnout or injury. The longer you train, the more adjustments you will have to make to your training intensity, lifestyle, and nutrition. But if you are smart with your training, you will be able to stay on the mats for many years to come.