Training BJJ as a Family: How Kids and Adults Can Train Together

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is more than just a martial art—it’s a lifestyle rooted in respect, discipline, and continuous growth. As families search for more meaningful and healthy ways to spend time together, many are discovering that BJJ offers the perfect solution. Not only does training BJJ as a family create stronger bonds, but it also promotes mutual respect, improved health, and shared goals between parents and children.

Why BJJ Works for All Ages

One of the greatest aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is its scalability. Whether you're 5 or 55, the principles of leverage, technique, and control allow people of all sizes and strengths to train effectively. Kids learn coordination, patience, and discipline, while adults benefit from improved fitness, stress relief, and a greater sense of resilience.

Unlike many sports, BJJ is designed to be inclusive. It doesn’t require a particular athletic background, and its emphasis on technique over strength means that anyone—regardless of age or size—can excel. This makes it ideal for family training.

Benefits of Training Together as a Family

1. Builds Stronger Bonds: Training BJJ creates a shared experience that few other activities offer. Rolling together, learning new techniques, and attending classes side by side leads to better communication and deeper understanding between parents and children.

2. Teaches Respect and Humility: On the mats, everyone starts as a beginner. Children see their parents learning and progressing, which instills a culture of humility and mutual respect. Adults, in turn, get to watch their children develop confidence and perseverance firsthand.

3. Encourages Healthy Habits: Training BJJ together helps families stay active and engaged. Instead of screen time, you're spending time doing something physical and mentally stimulating. It encourages a lifestyle built on health, self-discipline, and consistency.

4. Creates Accountability and Motivation: It's easier to stay committed when your training partners live with you! Parents can help kids prepare for class, and kids can nudge parents to stay consistent with training. This dynamic helps everyone stay on track.

5. Offers Shared Goals: Whether it’s earning a new stripe or preparing for a local tournament, having shared goals creates an exciting sense of achievement and teamwork within the family.

Making BJJ Family-Friendly

Creating a family-friendly environment at your academy makes all the difference. If you're an instructor or gym owner, consider offering:

• Family Classes: Where parents and kids can train side-by-side or in rotating pairs.

• Synchronized Schedules: Kids and adult classes scheduled at the same time in adjacent spaces.

• Intro Programs for Families: Allowing families to try out BJJ together through special intro deals.

• Inclusive Culture: Encourage instructors and higher belts to create a positive, supportive atmosphere for students of all ages.

If you're a parent looking to train with your child, start by finding a local academy that values family involvement. Resources like BJJ Globetrotters offer a great sense of community and can help you find like-minded gyms. You can also explore Jiu-Jitsu Times for family-focused stories, tips, and academy features.

What to Expect When Training Together

Your Roles May Shift: As a parent, you’re used to being in control. On the mats, your child might pick up certain techniques faster than you. That’s okay! Celebrate each other's progress and enjoy the journey together.

Tap Early and Often: Especially when rolling with your child. Use the time to model safe rolling behavior. Tapping out is a sign of awareness, not weakness.

Make It Fun: Playful drills, games, and occasional rewards can help keep younger kids engaged. Encourage positive reinforcement and celebrate small victories.

Be Patient: Like any new skill, BJJ takes time to learn. Training with your child will test your patience in new ways, but the rewards far outweigh the frustrations.

Create Traditions: Whether it's post-class smoothies, setting goals together, or celebrating belt promotions with family dinners, building rituals around your BJJ journey makes it more meaningful.

Real-Life Impact

Families who train together often experience transformation beyond the mats. Children develop leadership qualities, learn to cope with pressure, and gain confidence in school and other areas of life. Parents often report feeling more energized, motivated, and connected to their children in deeper ways.

And for families who compete together? The support system becomes unstoppable. Win or lose, everyone understands the effort it takes to step onto the mats.

One parent who trains with their two kids shared: “Rolling with my kids has changed how I parent. I don’t just tell them to be disciplined—we live it together every week.”

Getting Started

If you're new to BJJ or thinking about joining as a family, here are a few tips:

• Visit a few gyms before committing. Look for clean facilities, positive coaches, and structured classes.

• Ask if they offer family or multi-member discounts.

• Start slowly—1-2 times a week to build consistency.

• Stay supportive and positive, especially in the beginning.

Ready to begin your family journey on the mats? Check out BJJ Heroes to explore the roots and role models of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and deepen your family's connection to the art.

Final Thoughts

Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a family isn’t just about learning techniques or getting belts. It’s about connection, shared growth, and becoming stronger together. In a world filled with distractions and disconnected routines, BJJ offers a powerful way to unite around something positive, challenging, and incredibly rewarding.

So grab your gi, bring your kids, and step onto the mat. The journey is better when it’s shared.

Oss!