INTERESTED IN COMPETING?
TOURNAMENT INFO & RESOURCES
We’re excited that you’re thinking about stepping onto the competition mats—competing is a great way to test your skills, grow your confidence, and experience Jiu Jitsu in a whole new way!
TOURNAMENT SIGN-UP INFO
We recommend starting with one of the following well-organized tournaments listed below. While there are many tournaments out there, and we’re not opposed to you signing up for others, these are the ones we highly recommend based on our own experiences with their structure, timing, communication, and overall athlete experience.
✅ AGF (AMERICAN GRAPPLING FEDERATION)
- Select Wise Jiu Jitsu when registering.
⚠️ Please do NOT select “Team Wise”—they are a different gym entirely.
✅ JJWL (JIU JITSU WORLD LEAGUE)
- Select Wise BJJ when registering.
⚠️ Please do NOT select “Team Wise”—they are a different gym entirely.
✅ IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation)*
IBJJF tournaments are a great experience but have more formal requirements and rules:
- White belts are not eligible for No-Gi divisions.
- Strict Gi and No-Gi uniform rules must be followed.
If you come across a tournament not listed here that you’re interested in, please talk to your coach before signing up so we can help you make sure it’s a good fit and you’re prepared.
* IMPORTANT NOTE ABOUT IBJJF REGISTRATION
Before signing up for any IBJJF event, please talk to your coach. The IBJJF registration process is different from other organizations and includes:
- Coach Approval Required: Athletes must be affiliated with a recognized gym and approved by coaches before being allowed to register.
- Ranking Timeline: IBJJF tracks how long an athlete has held a certain belt. We may need to discuss your current rank, goals, and a strategy for your long-term competition timeline.
- Registration Process: IBJJF requires documentation, photo ID, and a membership approval process that must be completed well before the tournament date.
If you’re thinking about doing an IBJJF event, talk to us first so we can help guide you through it smoothly.
EXPERIENCE RECOMMENDATION
We suggest students have at least 6 months of consistent training before competing in their first tournament. That gives you time to build a strong foundation and develop confidence in your techniques.
Every tournament has its own rule set and regulations—these can be found on their respective websites. Be sure to review them carefully.
TOURNAMENT PREP TIPS
Competing takes focus and preparation, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Here are a few tips:
✅ Train with Purpose: About 4–6 weeks before the tournament, start dialing in your game. Focus on the positions and submissions you feel most confident with, and drill them consistently.
✅ Ask Questions: Talk to your coaches about strategies, weight classes, and rule sets. Every tournament is a little different.
✅ Conditioning Counts: Make time for cardio and recovery to help your body perform its best.
✅ Practice Under Pressure: Simulate competition rounds in class. This helps reduce nerves and build confidence.
DAY OF THE TOURNAMENT
Competing takes focus and preparation, but don’t worry—we’ve got your back. Here are a few tips:
✅ Arrive Early: Get to the venue at least an hour before your division’s check-in time.
✅ Bring Essentials: Gi, No-Gi gear (if competing in both), water, snacks, ID, sandals, and a positive mindset.
✅ Warm-Up Well: Don’t wait until the last minute to move around—get your body ready!
✅ Stay Nearby: Don’t wander far from your mat once your division is close to being called.
✅ Support Your Teammates: Cheer each other on! Competing is better when we show up as a team.
Competing is all about learning, growing, and testing yourself in a new way.
Whether it’s your first or your fiftieth tournament, we’re proud of your dedication. If you have questions or are thinking about signing up, let us know—we’re here to help every step of the way!