Judo and BJJ (Brazilian Ju Jitsu) are both effective martial arts, good for fitness and skill development in young children.
There are many similarities – both involve Ne Waza (“groundwork”, similar to wrestling), neither have striking and both are physically demanding.
However, there are some key differences you might want to consider before choosing a sport for your child.
| Aspect | Judo | BJJ |
|---|---|---|
| Fitness & coordination |  | |
| Competitive & fun | | |
| Good for self defence | | |
| Wrestling & ground defence skills | | |
| Standing defence & falling skills | |  |
| Mostly not for profit clubs | | |
| Low training fees | | |
| Gear Needed: Gi (uniform) | | |
| Gear 'Recommended': mouthguard, rash vest, ear protectors, fight shorts | | |
| National insurance regime | | |
| Olympic sport | | |
| Quality enforced by national AIS funded body | | |
| Membership transfers across all JFA clubs | | |
Ready to choose?