What Does it Take to be a Blue Belt

What makes a BJJ Blue Belt?

It is estimated that 70% – 90% of individuals starting Jiu Jitsu quit before obtaining a blue belt, many in the first six months of training. Earning a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu blue belt is an accomplishment that requires many months of dedication and discipline. Even for those who are able to weather the storm of white belt, there is an important question that some might ask.

Are you a true blue belt?

Now, the standardization of jiu jitsu belts varies from gym to gym and because of this skill levels will inevitably vary as well. Some professors reward stripes and belts based on attendance or through belt tests. Other professors watch to see whether students have learned and retained certain skill sets. 

Regardless of these methods, here’s what I think…

A legitimate blue belt practitioner should be able to demonstrate a solid understanding of the fundamental techniques and concepts of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Since it comes after the white belt, it should indicate that an individual has skills beyond the beginner level, but is still within the early stages of mastery. 

Solid Understanding of Fundamental Techniques

The practitioner can execute basic techniques such as sweeps, submissions, escapes, guard passes, and submissions from multiple positions and can effectively apply these techniques in live rolling.

Position Control

Practitioners can control, maintain, and transition from positions, such as mount, side control, and back control, with sufficient pressure.

Submission Knowledge

A blue belt has a strong understanding of basic submissions, such as armbar, triangle choke, rear-naked choke, kimura, guillotine, and others.

They are able to both apply and defend against these submissions in various positions.

Escapes and Defense

A legit blue belt knows how to escape from bad positions (e.g., side control, mount, back control) and defend against common submissions.

They can often avoid getting tapped by more experienced practitioners, though they may still be submitted occasionally.

Concepts of BJJ

A blue belt understands and applies the core principles of BJJ, such as leverage, timing, and the concept of “position before submission.”

They are able to adapt their game to different training partners and situations.

Overall, a BJJ blue belt is someone who has an idea of the fundamental aspects of Jiu Jitsu. Therefore, against a higher belt they should be able to somewhat hold their own whether that be on defense or offense. In addition, they should be able to visualize their next move even if they can’t execute it due to the superior skill of their opponent.