BJJ Rules: Here's what you need to know!

Why Understanding BJJ Rules Matters

When you step onto the mats for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), decisions happen quickly:

• Should I pull guard or go for a takedown?
• Can I use this submission at white belt?
• What’s the penalty if I grip the inside of the sleeve?

Rules guide those choices. They protect athletes, ensure fairness, and shape how matches play out. Whether you’re a beginner rolling in your first class or a competitor preparing for IBJJF, ADCC, or local tournaments, knowing the rules makes training safer and competition smarter.

What Are the Main Rules of BJJ?

Know the universal foundations before focusing on tournament-specific rules.

• Uniform (Gi and No-Gi): Gi competitors must wear an approved kimono. No-Gi athletes wear rash guards and spats/shorts with no pockets or zippers.
• Time Limits: Matches vary by belt and competition. White belt matches are usually shorter (5–6 minutes), while black belts may go 10 minutes.
• Scoring System: Points are awarded for dominant positions and transitions (guard passes, sweeps, mount, back control).
• Submissions: A match ends when one competitor taps verbally or physically due to a joint lock or choke.
• Illegal Moves: Techniques like neck cranks, small joint manipulation, and heel hooks (in some Gi divisions) are prohibited.
• Victory Conditions: Win by points, submission, referee decision, or disqualification.

Common Questions About BJJ Rules

1. What Moves Are Illegal in BJJ?

• White Belt Restrictions: No heel hooks, no reaping the knee, no neck cranks.
• Slamming: Illegal in most competitions.
• Small Joint Attacks: Fingers and toes cannot be manipulated.

Always review the tournament’s rulebook—IBJJF vs. ADCC vs. local events may differ.

2. How Does the Point System Work in BJJ?

• Takedown or Throw: 2 points
• Sweep (guard reversal): 2 points
• Guard Pass: 3 points
• Knee on Belly: 2 points
• Mount or Back Control with Hooks: 4 points

Don’t chase submissions blindly. If you’re down on points, prioritize sweeps or passes to regain control.

3. What Are the Belt-Specific Rules?

• White Belts: Basic submissions only, no twisting leg locks.
• Blue & Purple Belts: More submissions allowed, but still limited on certain leg locks.
• Brown & Black Belts: Advanced submissions, including toe holds, knee bars, and wrist locks (depending on ruleset).

Train according to your belt level’s legal moves—develop your game around techniques you can actually use in competition.

Quick Reference: BJJ Rules Checklist

• ✅ Wear approved Gi or No-Gi gear
• ✅ Know your time limit
• ✅ Understand points: sweeps, passes, control
• ✅ Avoid illegal moves at your belt level
• ✅ Respect referee decisions
• ✅ Tap early, tap safe

Final Decision: Mastering BJJ Rules

Understanding BJJ rules isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about making better decisions under pressure. The athlete who knows when to secure points, when to risk a submission, and when to play safe often wins.

By learning the rules of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you:

• Compete with confidence
• Reduce injury risks
• Train smarter
• Improve long-term strategy

The mats reward knowledge. If you want to win—master the rules before mastering the fight.