When we start talking about traumatic injuries to the brain and concussions, we rarely include grappling as a source for such issues. So far, the high-velocity impact has been the number one cause of traumatic brain injuries in people. When it comes to athletes, and combat athletes, in particular, hardly anything could measure up to boxing. Until MMA came along. As of late, CTE has been a major subject of research among MMA athletes, football players, soccer players, etc. But, as research suggests, there might actually be such a thing as a BJJ CTE syndrome.
To be completely honest, BJJ CTE research is still in its infancy at best. As you’ll see later on, there are only a handful of studies. even then, those studies do not specifically relate to BJJ CTE but rather look into it as part of traumatic brain injury research. However, some of the results are more than worrying. IS it just a case f isolated incidents or do the subjects of the research shed light on something we take for granted? let’s look at the evidence and the research, as well as some reaction. Then everyone can draw a conclusion of their own. As far as I’m concerned. I’m talking chokes way more seriously from now on!
Traumatic Brain Injuries And CTE
First of all, let’s talk about all these abbreviations. There are two you’ll find in regard to brain trauma – TBI and CTE. TBI stands for Traumatic Brain Injury which is pretty self-explanatory. CTE stands for Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy which refers to the repetitive nature of TBI in some sports. When it comes to contact sports, particularly striking ones, it is clear how repetitive trauma matters.
Without going tint too much detail, let’s see what happens to the brain when you get strikes to the head. Our brains lie in our heads for a reason – the skull is the most protected space we have. Still, the hardness and structure of it is its’ own downfall, when it comes to TBIs. Namely, while you can’t affect the brain directly with a strike, the so-called contrecoup action does just as much damage. This refers to an injury to the brain on the opposite side of where trauma occurs. this happens simply because the brain rattles against the skull which is a very hard surface. So if you get punched in the face, the back of your brain will get trauma due to hitting the posterior side of your inner skull. You get the picture.
A very important thing to remember is that repetitive TBI leads to CTE due to the cumulative effect of the impact. What this means is that every strike that lands on your head matters. In fact, it is much more important how much you accumulate during training and sparring rather than how many times you’ve been knocked out.
But what does any of this has to do with BJJ CTE symptoms? After all, it’s a grappling martial art, right?
Latest Worrying BJJ CTE Research
As much as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lacks strike-related head trauma, it makes up for other types of trauma. Mostly we get banged up all over our bodies, with our joints the prime targets. However, there’s an aspect to BJJ that Even other grappling martial arts often lack – the number of chokes. As it turns out, training chokes, and more importantly, being stubborn with them, might actually lead to traumatic brain injuries. Or worse, CTE.
A recent study by Erik Magraken reveals that BJJ CTE might not be such a farfetched thing after all. Namely, in a case study of a military service member who got choked in a BJJ match, Magraken has some interesting findings. The article, published in the peer-reviewed Federal Practitioner journal outlines the effects of choking in this particular case. The subject in question suffered TBI-like symptoms in nausea and vertigo, and eventually, a stroke.
A second study, done at a much larger scale, also looks into BJJ CTE symptoms. In it, researchers look at a 40-year old MMA fighter who practiced the sport for over 10 years. With an already diagnosed CTE there was no doubt as to the presence of symptoms, In terms of causes, though, the findings were surprising. They suggested that repetitive choking played just as much of a role as did repetitive sub-concussive trauma from striking during training and competition. The study ties in hypoxia as a major factor in developing further neurological problems. As per the study, a force of just two kilograms on the carotids is enough to cause hypoxia and brain damage.
So far, the results seem worrying and they make sense. However, as is often the case with science, there’s a different view to it as well.
The MMA Factor
Dr. Samuel J. Stellpflug is one of the people who does not agree with BJJ CTE. According to the emergency medicine practitioner, the evidence is still scarce at best. While there’s obviously a need to further investigate the claims of BJJ CTE symptoms, many wouldn’t rush to agree with Stellpflug on the lack of dangers. He is also known to refute certain claims of MMA striking related CTE in the case of other studies. Since we can’t know who is right, the fact remains that much more research is needed in these crucial areas. With more and more people taking up combat martial arts as careers, this should be a priority.
There’s another aspect to these studies I’d like to point out. While the studies did find worrying results, we have to take into account the MMA factor. The second study looks at a subject that has been receiving blows to the head on an almost daily basis for 10 years Whether that in itself is enough to cause the symptoms, or it ties in with chokes as a factor, remains to be seen.
The subject of the first study also has a past in the military. Whether or not he had exposure to TBI-causing events is also not clear. Moreover, there’s a host of other health factors, often individual, that determine whether a choke is going to give you a nap or give you BJJ CTE symptoms. Whatever the case, we need to find the truth out, preferably before it is too late for someone.
Conclusion
TBI and CTE are not your garden variety of combat sports injuries. They do not tend to pass by themselves and can really impact your quality of life. CTE might even prove to be fatal in the long run for some athletes. All in all, we need to make sure we know what happens during MMA training and fighting for sure. Moreover, we need to be aware if BJJ CTE is really a thing and should we take way more care when practicing choking techniques.
To be fair, the DVD I’m about to review today is one of the best BJJ DVDs ever issued. Today, I’m doing a Kristian Woodmansee DVD review on the Dream Killer’s latest digital instructional, this time covering the 50/50 guard. The 50/50 is one of the most curious positions in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It comes and goes faster than other positions, but always seems to return to the highest levels of competition after a short hiatus. Not everyone is up to date on what you can do from there, but Kristian is certainly one of the few that know it inside out. Now, he finally shares some of his hard-earned 50/50 guard knowledge with us!
The 50/50 guard is a simple position- you either like it or you don’t. However, if you’re to have any issues in BJJ, Go or No-Gi, and even MMA grappling, you need to know what to do from this versatile guard. There’s literally nothing you can’t do from the 50/50 guard. Sweeps, stalling, submissions, heel hooks, whatever you think about is at your disposal. Moreover, it is notoriously hard to pass particularly in the Gi. Sounds like the perfect position, right? Well, yes, but only if you know how to use it to your advantage. If there’s one person out there that really understand the modern 50/50 guard it is Kristian Woodmansee. This right here is the most comprehensive 50/50 guard Kristian Woodmansee DVD review.
50/50 Guard – The Third Coming
Before we get on with the 50/50 guard with Kristian Woodmansee DVD review, let’s clear up a few things first. The 50/50 guard is one of the best positions you can get in Jiu-Jitsu and even MMA. However, there’s a bad rep that follows this guard, and it is time we clear the air on that subject.
The 50/50 guard is a grappling position that is just as old as grappling martial arts themselves. In BJJ, it was pioneered by the Mendes brothers. Although BJJ legends like Saulo Ribeiro and Roger Gracie did find themselves in the position prior to the Mendes brothers, they did not rate it, nor consider it a guard. When the Mendes brothers started doing it, they primarily used it to sweep and gain advantages in order to win matches by points. This soon made the guard gain a reputation as a stalling position and the grappling community turned away from it.
The second coming of the 50/50 guard was also marred by controversy. A few years after the Mendes brothers, Ryan Hall revolutionized leg locks, in particular, heel hooks, thanks to the 50/50 guard. As he transitioned towards MMA everyone saw a new use for the 50/50 and it erupted once again. However, this was also short-lived, as the IBJJF doesn’t allow heel hooks so the guard’s usefulness was limited at best.
Finally, the third wave of the modern 50/50 guard is what we just saw at the 2019 Mundials. Plenty of grapplers ended up as world champions thanks to their 508/50 guard prowess. The modern 50/50 game actually has everything – leg locks, defense, attacks, stalling (if needed), ways of passing the guard and much more. And Woodmanse is the man to break it all down to the finest details.
Kristian Woodmansee a.k.a. The Dream Killer
Given that Kristian is an IBJJF Pans world champion and No-GI Worlds bronze medalist. So far. Before black belt, he has multiple World and European titles at roster weight. He is a very well rounded grappler who won most of his titles in No-Gi. That fact, coupled with the fact that he trains at Atos, where they pay a lot of attention to Gi training, makes him the perfect professor to teach the 50/50 guard.
Kristian is another grappler who found out about BJJ fairly late in life. He stumbled across it when he was 20 years old in Philadelphia. Up until brown belt, he trained with pretty much everyone that matters, from Robert Drysdale and Cyborg to Loyd Irvin. As of 2014, he is an Atos Jiu-Jitsu representative. In 2016, Woodmansee received his black belt from Atos leader Andre Galvao. Kristian, now 31, also tried his hand in MMA as well.
To be fair, Kristian has not competed at the highest levels during the last couple of years. He has, however, been busy. So far he has several BJJ DVD instructionals out, mostly on the subject of open guards. However, it is his latest one that really catches attention. Check out the most detailed Kristian Woodmansee DVD Review of the 50/50 guard below.
50/50 Guard With Kristian Woodmansee DVD Review
There are not plenty of BJJ DVDs out there that I had to watch several times in order to do a review. Doing this Kristian Woodmansee DVD review of the 50/5 guard instructional is by far one of the most fun reviews I ever did. The DVD seems simple, yet it turns out that it has far more complex content than it appears. Woodmanse is an awesome teacher, which is usually the case with Atos Jiu-jitsu black belts. His systematization of the modern day 50/50 guard is also perfect to a T.
The 50/50 guard with Kristian Woodmansee DVD instructional comes in a single volume placed on one DVD. It is, however, exceedingly long and has well over two dozen chapters. They way Woodmansee moves through the DVD is also very precise. He starts off with the ins and out of the 50/50 guard. He covers getting to the guard, staying in the guard with a purpose as well as ways of escaping the guard. Sound and camera work are pristine, making this DVD arguably the best possible resource on the modern day 50/50 guard.
Part 1 – The Guard
The first few chapters of the DVD are all about what the 50/50 guard is and how you can make sure that you have the upper hand. One issue with the guard is that your opponent has just as many opportunities as you do. Well, Woodmansee takes care of such common issue by introducing an innovative grip fighting system. True to Atos philosophy, there’s a lot of lapel work in there, some of it fairly intricate. It all makes sense though, as I discovered during this Kristian Woodmansee DVD review.
Kristian’s take on the 50/50 basic also include some basic entries to the guard. Some you know, but you don’t fully understand while others are brand new. In any case, this DVD clears up a lot of questions most people have with the 50/50 guard in the Gi.
Part 2 – Attacking
This is the portion that Kristian is unrivaled in. Attacking from the 50/50 guard is usually difficult as the opponent has easy ways of keeping your hips on the ground. Kristian’s grip fighting system, as we already saw, takes care of the 50/50 situation, turning the guard more into a 90/10 for you. From there, there are countless ways of attacking, as long as you follow some of Woodmansee’s basic attacking principles.
The one thing I particularly enjoyed is the way Woodmansee approaches sweeps. Namely, he doesn’t just look to end up on top. As per the IBJJF rules, if you just get up from the 50/50 without actually disengaging, you only get an advantage rather than points for sweeping. Well, instead of disengaging, Kristian will teach you how to sweep directly into a pass that leads to side control, or the back.
On the subject of submissions, leg locks are a huge part of Woodmansee’s game, so they do feature, albeit in an IBJJF friendly version. That translates to mostly ankle locks, Estima locks and toe holds. Some intricate 50/50 armbars are also in there, providing variety and further attacking options.
Part 3 – Defense
We get to the final part of this Kristian Woodmansee DVD review, as well as the final third of the 50/50 guard instructional. The Dream Killer certainly saved the best for last, providing some crazy ways out of the 50/50. He solves of the main puzzles this guard presents – how to dismantle and disengage without giving away points or submission. Once again, Kristian demonstrates ways of passing the guard that nobody has shown before.
Wrapping this incredible instructional up is a portion that focuses on defending leg locks from the 50/50. Let’s not forget, Woodmansee’s best titles are in No-Gi, so he is more than aware of any lower body submission dangers. That said, he does cover mostly IBJJF-related leg locks, so you won’t find heel hook defenses inside. However, there are some crazy counters that either lead to the back or in a leg lock of your own. In fact, the one most important principle for winning a footsie battle from the 50/50 is right here in this Kristian Woodmansee BJJ DVD instructional!
Conclusion
If you are a modern day 50/50 guard player than you simply can’t go ahead without this DVD instructional. Moreover, if you do not particularly like the 50/50, you need this DVD in order to understand how to get out in the safest possible way. Our Kristian Woodmansee DVD review had the task of laying out how this DVD works, and what you can expect inside. Kristen’s role is to present the information and organize it in a meaningful way. We did our best, Kristian certainly did more than anybody could expect. Now, it is down to you to pick up the instructional and start conquering titles!
It is no secret that our military heroes getting discharged from combative service and entering back into the civilian world experience challenges. Coping with combative trauma, changing dynamics in family/friend relationships, finding/maintaining fulfilling employment, and understanding how to navigate daily stressors and different personality types, the challenges endured are real and can be very tough.
Knowing that these challenges can lead to substance abuse, homelessness, broken relationships, psychological hardship, and even suicide, there clearly is something broken in the system that equips our military heroes to dive back into the civilian world successfully. This idea is what sparked Dr. Gino Collura to dive into BJJ and explore its use as a tool for military veteran reassimilation.
Dr. Collura conducted a study with combat veterans in Tampa, Florida, who have been participating in BJJ and documented changes that training has made in their lives. The results were outstanding. He documented positive changes in mental health, improvement in domestic relationships, easier navigation of daily stressors, reduction of substance abuse and an overall enhancement in quality of life through the relationships built on the mat and the confidence gained through training. An excerpt from one of the study’s participants (a former Marine Corps infantryman) is found below:
Marine Corps Infantryman:
“for me….when I started up BJJ classes…it was about needing to lose the beer gut that I got after being out…I got a little bit of training in MCMAP [Marine Corps Martial Arts Program]…but that was it. Then as I kept going week after week I started feeling alive again. I got back to a place where I felt good about myself, didn’t need the beer anymore, and felt like I had something to contribute to my life as a civilian. The thing about being a Marine is that once you are a Marine, you are always a Marine. I knew I wasn’t making the Corps proud being a fat drunk so BJJ changed that for me. The ‘motivate-kill’ motto left me over time as it became much more about being a Marine in the civilian world and being a leader and example to others. I got that through the brothers I have found in BJJ and how it is that they conduct themselves. The guys that I train with are absolute animals on the mat…the best in the world. But the cool thing is that they are very gentle and humble…they don’t boast about it or show ego…that kind of attitude will get you’re a** kicked fast. They are relaxed and can roll with the punches in any situation. They remind me a lot of the tier one guys I used to know over in Afghanistan…they were subtle and calm…but you knew not to mess with them. Training has created that same space for me but here at home. How I reacted to danger over in Afghanistan and how I react to it here are totally different….here I walk around in shorts, flip flops, and a T-shirt….if something dangerous happens I am looking to get others to safety and even if an idiot starts talking shi*, I am not looking to kill the guy…just submit him and get him to realize he is being an a**. That’s been the biggest thing for me…I will forever be a Marine but the way I see threats as a civilian is different…it’s not about killing…it’s about being calm and still carrying the warrior and marine code…just applying it differently…if it wasn’t for BJJ, I probably would have ripped a bunch of people’s heads off by now…not even kidding.”
BJJ as a Lifestyle and Effective Therapy
In a brief interview with BJJ World, Dr. Collura states, “For those of us who have trained in BJJ for a while we know there is something special about it. The Brotherhood, the camaraderie, the customs and loyalty found within the art and sport are very powerful. It has the potential to change lives and I wanted to dive into the roots of it and see if that hypothesis was true, scientifically. Turns out that it is and it can do incredible things for folks in the veteran community who are going through some very real hardships.”
His study had a range of servicemembers that canvased every branch of the United States Armed Forces with the majority being from the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps veteran community. He explicitly studied individuals who had been exposed to combat and/or participated in combat in different campaigns post-September 11.
Given the high rates of veteran suicide as well as the prevalence of PTSD within the combat veteran community, he wanted to focus on the challenges that combat veterans faced when coming home after enduring multiple deployments, firefights, IED explosions, ambushes, the loss of friends and displacement from home. Dr. Collura states, “The study was designed to see if BJJ participation actually had an effect on those servicemembers who had experienced horrific levels of trauma. Things that most of us could never imagine seeing or enduring. These are the folks who often have some of the hardest challenges in relating to others back home as they have seen things and experienced things emotionally that makes it exceedingly difficult to relate to others. They often carry a much different view of the world and the human capacity for violence than those who are shielded from war and the consequences of participating in it.”
Counter-insurgency Training and Trust
An interesting facet of Dr. Collura’s study was his focus on Counter-insurgency training and the problems it can create for veterans coming back home after deployment. He highlights how “winning hearts and minds” works well when your enemy is easily identifiable, but when the enemy is embedded in the same community you are trying to win over it makes it very difficult to trust anyone. This challenge with trust often carries over into servicemembers’ civilian life and contributes to challenges experienced with marriages, interactions with children, employment, and creating new relationships. Participating in BJJ forges a level of trust that cannot be denied. Pushing through the sweat, pain, blood, injuries and knowing that our training partners will let go when we “tap” requires an immense amount of trust and camaraderie that is very difficult to duplicate in other environments that are not dependent on combat. Forging trust allows servicemembers to create new meaningful relationships that create opportunities for friendships which can be challenging to identify outside of the military as seen in this excerpt from one of the study participants:
“the BJJ gym is my new Afghanistan. It’s much nicer, has air condition, and no one is trying to shoot me or blow me up, but it gives me purpose and meaning. It keeps me in combat while also making the best friends anyone could ask for. We all share the same struggle on the mat but are all here for one another at the same time. We sacrifice ourselves not only for our own betterment but also for the betterment of our teammates.”
BJJ Tuition Paid by the Government
Collura’s goal is to identify ways to have the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or Tricare (Military Health Insurance provider) cover the cost of BJJ participation for veterans. With many health insurance companies providing incentives and often covering the cost for individuals who are involved with proactive medicine, there are great efforts being pushed forward to have the cost of BJJ academy tuition covered by the government. Collura states, “With so many of our nation’s servicemembers struggling to fit back in we should be doing everything in our power to encourage healthy lifestyle activities that are physical, mental, and social in nature. Having an activity like BJJ that promotes all three while empowering our military heroes with a skillset that can help in so many different facets of life there is a tremendous opportunity to curve substance abuse, mental health challenges, as well as a lack of socialization for veterans.”
Photo Credibility: Gracie Tampa South
Those of us who train know that the beauty of our art is found in the little wins that we make each time we hit the mat. The idea of a “tap” does not signify loss, rather, an opportunity for us to learn where we made a mistake to ensure it does not happen again. Dr. Collura’s study drove that point home with the mental power that BJJ provides for military veterans who may carry guilt, depression, and anxiety/stress that stems from how they were trained in the military. One of the study participants state:
“No one likes to lose, man. When you are taught that you can’t leave a man behind or mission failure means people are dying you get rigid when people around you don’t give it their all. Back then our all meant giving our life for the mission. As a regular guy, the people around me would think I’m nuts if I said I’d die for whatever goal is at hand. BJJ makes you look at mission failure in a different way. It isn’t that you lost, it’s that there’s a better way to do it and I just haven’t figured it out yet. You get a direct response which is cool, but being able to accept that you can be beaten and still come back better took me a while to get….but I got it and it has made a huge difference for me.”
With the VA spending over $2 Billion a year on trauma treatments and medications that often do not work, the time has come to consider alternative approaches that are proving to be effective, are a fraction of the cost, and give our servicemembers an outlet that is dependable, relatable and connected to a global brotherhood.
Do you know what the favorite pastime of MMA fighters is? Video games. Now, while the type of video games MMA fighters like to play varies, they all have one thing in common – fighting video games. Whether it is MMA-based realistic games or fantasy fighting games, they’re on top of every combat athlete’s list. The trouble with fighting games is that if you pick the wrong one, you might really end up disappointed. To avoid such a scenario, we bring you the best MMA video games of 2020, at least when it comes to one-on-one combat games!
There are two main questions when it comes to video games, whether they’re shooters, fighting, or racing games. The first one has to do with the game itself, and whether or not it is fun and worth your time (and money). Secondly, you need the best platform that’ll allow you to play as many of the best MMA video games of 2020 as possible. When it comes to gaming platforms, nothing beats the Sony PlayStation, and in particular, the PS4. All the best fighting MMA video games are supported on it, and it is the most used platform of today! So, if you have your PS4 ready, it is time to start looking at some game titles.
The Evolution Of Fighting Video Games
Depending on the generation you are from, you remember different types of fighting MMA video games. By fighting, I mean the “classic” one-on-one match. Whether you’re playing against the computer/console or a living opponent, you need to control a fighter with a special set of skills against an opponent that has different specific skills. As far as I am concerned, there were two main games back when I started discovering the world of fighting video games.
The first one I got into was Street Fighter. This was the perfect blend of fantasy and realism, at least for the time. Very soon I moved to a more fantasy-based game which I still play to this very day – Mortal Kombat. For a while there, this type of fighting video game with a strong fantasy background was the norm. Tekken was a successor to Mortal Combat that truly raised the bar of fighting video games. After that, games in the form of Manga fighting games started to dominate, although they never reeled me in, personally.
With the rise of the UFC, Pride, and MAM in general, the world of fighting games also changed. First and foremost, realism came to the forefront. Now people wanted to control fighters that looked like real-life MMA fighters rather than fictional characters. Moreover, the technical complexity increased, as grappling was now introduced to an already huge striking array. The moment this happened, PS became the best platform to play fighting video games and remains one to this day. So, with that in mind and a PS4 in front of us, we go into the ultimate guide to the best MMA video games for 2021!
The Best MMA Video Games in 2021
Seeing as there are different eras of fighting video games, we decided to include a bit of everything in our best MMA video game guide. That said, we did not opt for the original edition of Street Fighter or Mortal Kombat. there’s not a platform that would be able to play them anyhow. Instead, we paid great respect to legendary fighting video game franchises and included their best stuff in our guide. Give the high requirements for graphics and motion we set, nothing but PS4 (for the most part) is going to do the trick. Well, not if you want to play the best MAM video games of 2021 anyway.
AS far as reality is concerned, you’ll also find a lot of variety below. From fantasy games with fictional characters, either based on comic books or legendary franchise characters, through Manga and Anime all the way to modern-day UFC stars, we have them all. From complete fantasy to real-life realism, you’ll find what you’re looking for below. Or, even better, get them all and you’ll own the ultimate PS4 MMA video games collection of all times!
INJUSTICE 2: LEGENDARY EDITION
Features:
Downloadable content characters
Variety of game modes
Personalize iconic DC characters
5 Premiere Skins
For PS4 platform
First, up in our best MMA video games, the 2021 guide is a game I never really played before. It came up a lot during the research so I had to give it a try. Suffice to say, I was hooked, so much so, that this article was supposed to be ready a couple of weeks ago. Injustice 2: Legendary Edition is one of the best fighting games you can play, period. It is fantasy-based and offers as much personalization to your character as you can imagine.
Injustice 2 is actually based on the DC universe. So, everyone into the DC superheroes (and there’s a lot of those among combat athletes), rejoice! This game has downloadable characters that you can use to constantly widen your “fighters stable”. Plus, you get everything from the DC universe, from Batman and Hellboy all the way to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The best thing about it is that the more you play, the more you can develop your character in terms of gear, abilities, and customizations. The graphics are flawless, there’s an interactive world and the motion of the characters is breathtaking!
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MORTAL KOMBAT XL
Features:
New character packs
Cinematic story mode
Completely unlocked MKX roster
Next-gen fatalities
High definition
For PS4 platform
As far as the best MMA video games of all time go, there’s no way to omit Mortal Kombat. This is the game that started it all, from an unbelievable number of characters all the way to crazy graphics and interactive arenas. “Mortal Kombat XL” is the one game in our guide that I’ll recommend to anyone, but you should probably know that I am very biased towards it! Once again, there’s no better console than PS4 to really get the feel of this fighting game!
The story here is a brand new one. As always, there are also new characters on top of the old ones we know so well. This time the central role goes to the daughter of Johnny Cage and Sonya called Cassie. She also has the perfect combination of skills, as a result of her parent’s unique abilities. Some crazy, never-before-seen fatalities feature in this game, guaranteed to have you jump! The game features every possible skin and variation as well as the complete roster of Mortal Kombat characters. Motion is crazy good, with the latest 3D technologies employed to work. The combat skills and combinations are also of the highest grade, with some slick grappling moves integrated with all the weaponry and special powers.
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EA SPORTS UFC 2
Features:
Knockout physics system
Dynamic grappling
Highest quality character visuals
Huge fight roster
For PS4 and Xbox One
Time to skip from the NetherRealm and the Mortal Komat Earthrealm to our present reality. That means turning to EA sports and one of the most anticipated games of all time – EA Sports UFC 2. This game not only features real-life fighting skills inside the octagon but also features the entire UFC roster, including stars like Ronda Rousey and Conor McGregor. Not to mention that you have special unlockable characters that open up as you play!
The biggest quality of this UFC game is in the technology used to design it, particularly the graphics and the motion of characters. The Knockout Physics System is as real as it gets, delivering the most authentic knockouts seen so far in a video game. There’s a lot to say about the motion in this game, particularly the grappling. Every exchange on the ground involves both fighters simultaneously, bringing a whole new dimension to playing against friends or training partners. The defense is also a great caveat and requires a lot of getting used to as you can’t get away with just holding the “block” button. The roster includes not only active UFC fighters but also MAM legends as well as some surprise special characters. One of the best modern MMA games in existence!
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GUILTY GEAR XRD – REVELATOR
Features:
One button Combo Carnage
2D style animation
Next-gen cell shading
6 new characters
For PS3 and PS4
If you are into this type of fighting video game, you most certainly know all about Guilty Gear. Well, guilty Gear XRD – Revelator is the best installment in the franchise so far. This Unreal engine-driven game offers you all the old characters, plus some new ones, as well as some crazy new features when it comes to controlling the characters. Although this game was released in2017, as far as the best MAM video games for PS4 goes, it is right up there on the very top!
In terms of characters, the game features all 13 Guilty Gear characters we know and love so far. What’s new are six additional characters, four of which are console exclusive (that’s why PS4 is the best). The engine is an Unreal engine and the game is in 2D graphics, given that it is an Anime-style game. As far as the matches go, this game guarantees much more brawling carnage than any other in our 2021 guide! In fact, one-button frenzy combinations are available that’ll leave you with your mouth open. The latest technology graphics and immense amounts of never-ending content are just a further guarantee that you’ll never grow tired of this video game! Perfect for both pro players as well as noobs!
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TEKKEN 7
Features:
Unreal Engine 4
Over-the-top cinematic action
All-new fighters
Epic franchise mash-up
For PS4 and Xbox One
Along with Mortal Kombat, this is one of the original fighting games that stormed the world. To this day, Tekken remains a favorite in the realm of fantasy fighting games. It was the first game to include actual fighting styles like wrestling, boxing, Capoeira, etc, giving the characters very specific strengths. Not to mention all the cool weapons and complete environment interaction.
The Tekken 7 Standard Edition is a PS4 game that employs the latest Unreal Engine 4 taking fighting games to new heights. The graphics and motion are something that is pushing modern consoles to their limits but delivers an unforgettable gaming experience. In fact, the visuals are so refined that it feels like guiding movie characters rather than video game ones. Not to mention the epic battles you can get into. The roster includes many of the fan-favorite characters but is also enriched with brand new ones. That brings about a new array of weapons, movements, and skills for an even better experience. Complete 3D graphics further set this game among the best MMA video games of 2021.
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UFC UNDISPUTED 3
Features:
Pride environment included
Japanese MMA league rules
The brand new submission system
New camera positions
More than 150 UFC characters
For PS3 and Xbox 360
Finally, one more realistic MMA video game, and one more UFC edition. This time, the main difference is in the console. This is an “old” game, requiring a PS3 to work. it is, however, the best realistic fighting video game released up to date, at least according to players worldwide. If you’re thinking about getting your very first MMA video game, then UFC undisputed # is where you should start.
What sets this game apart is the crazy wide environment that it offers. It is not just the UFC octagon, but also the legendary old Pride ring when it comes to fighting arenas. They even went the extra mile and included the original Pride announcers, along with Buffer. Also, you can fight according to both UFC or pride rules, meaning soccer kicks are legal, among other things. This brings us to the actual gameplay. The movement in this game is nothing short of groundbreaking. The way every technique, standing, on the ground, or in between works is breathtakingly accurate. The camera positions are also much more versatile and numerous compared to other UFC games. The roster offers more than 150 fighters to choose from, including the bantam and featherweight divisions. A real classic that every self-respecting gamer-fighter needs to own.
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Consoles, Platforms, And Technical Specifications
We already touched a bit on consoles and platforms. The fact is, that lots of games still work perfectly on PCs. However, controlling characters with a complex set of skills, like in the UFC games or Tekken, is much more difficult with a keyboard than a game controller. That brings us to all the different consoles out there, with PS4 taking the title of the best console by a mile!
The things we took into account while looking at the best MMA video games were not just popularity or the fact they work on a PS4. They both played an important role, as did price, but we went much deeper than that. Of course, the franchise is very important, as certain franchises have been on top for decades now. Such is the example with Mortal Kombat and Tekken. There’s actually another reason why certain franchises are constantly on top of the video games world – characters. Both the type, number, and specifics of each character decide the fate of fighting video games. To that extent. wall fo the entries in our best MMA video games guide are as versatile as possible.
There’s also the question of interaction with the world. About 15 years ago (perhaps even more) Mortal Kombat introduced an open world of sorts, where you can use objects to aid in your fighting. This makes for much more interesting games than just a painted background. This brings us to graphics. While there is still someplace for 2D graphics (anime-style games) in MMA fighting games, 3D is by far the norm. As you can see, all of the video games above fulfill each of the high standards we set for our 2021 guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best UFC game to buy?
In terms of specific UFC fighting games, UFC undisputed 3 is the best option to get, as voted by fans. The game is truly one of the best MMA video games ever, featuring both UFC and Pride arenas as well as more characters than any other game.
Is there any MMA game for PC?
At the moment, there’s no MMA game for PC that is worth looking into. The gaming consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox are absolutely unrivaled when it comes to the experience of playing MMA video games. Ther is a BJJ game that is available for Android, but then again, it is just to keep you entertained until you can get close to a proper console.
What fighting game should I play in 2021?
Any of the options above will do the trick. the only question is whether you want to play real games like UFC2 and UFC undisputed 3, or fantasy-based Tekken and Mortal Kombat like ones? That, and it will be down to the console you own. You certainly have all the options among our reviews above.
What is the best fighting game in 2021?
I would go for Tekken 7 as the overall best fighting game you can pick up in 2021. But, then again, that is just me, and if you’re a fan of UFC games, Undisputed 3 should be the first one in your basket.
Final Words
Whether you’re into realistic MMA fighting video games or fantasy worlds with special powers and crazy weapons, we got you covered. This best MMA video game guide brings you the absolute undisputed champions when it comes to fighting video games. With quality and affordability in mind, all of them are PS console specific, with the majority requiring a PS4. All in all, if you get one, you’ll have a great time. Get more or all of them and you might put your real-life MMA career in jeopardy. They’re that good!
There’s nothing in the entire array of possible injuries you can get from training combat sports that hurt as much as a rib injury. Whether it is just a contusion, a muscle sprain, or God forbid, a broken rib, you’re in for a period of intense pain. If (or better said when) that happens in a fight, you can’t really do too much about it. In training, however, rib and chest injuries altogether are easily avoidable. You just need to get in the habit of looking out for yourself. And the Best MMA Chest Protectors are the piece of gear you need to sleep painlessly at night, even after multiple rounds of live MMA sparring.
The best MMA chest protectors are probably the most important piece of protective gear you can wear, apart from a mouthguard. They’re also the most underrated piece of gear altogether. You rarely see Thai fighters practicing Muay Thai kicks without a chest protector on. MMA fighters, however, often think they can get away with it until something pops and every breath brings you intolerable pain. Not to mention the complete inability to laugh, sneeze, or cough. Well, with some of the modern best MMAchest protectors that are now integrated into rashguards, there are no more excuses. Stay safe while sparring so that you can dominate in the cage!
Chest Protection In MMA Training
There is a very good reason why our most sensitive organs are in our chest cavity. it offers the most protection out of every other area of the body, including the skull. Your chest is surrounded by a literal cage, made from the spine, sternum, and ribs. Inside, the hearth and lungs get as much protection as possible. All of the bones of the ribcage are interconnected with muscles that help to breathe. They are also the source of a lot of pain for MMA fighters. At least those that are not in the habit of wearing chest protectors.
Chest injuries hurt like hell. One great example is rolling. Whenever you grapple, there’s always immense pressure on the chest. Very often, particularly among people that are not seasoned grapplers, the ribs get smashed. This results in pain, because of either strain to the muscles or cracks or constructions to the ribs themselves, the sternum can also get a beating (think about knee on belly). Throw in there all the kicks and body punches that you throw during live sparring and that is the recipe for disaster.
Regardless of the type of chest injury, the result is the same – rest. Since you can’t really bandage or restrict the chest, because of movement during breathing, nothing but rest can help you heal. that also means time off, and perhaps a canceled flight or two. Actually, rib injuries are among the main reasons for fighters pulling out of fights at the highest levels. And it is all so easily avoidable – you just need a chest protector. Below, you’ll find the most comprehensive guide to the very best MMA chest protectors 2021 has to offer. That includes some really innovative ways of staying safe without carrying a bulky protector!
The 2021 Best MMA Chest Protectors Guide
As far as our best MMA Chest protectors 2021 guide goes, we made sure we focus on both protection and variety. PRotection is pretty much clear – the more you can get, the better. In terms of variety though, we don’t just mean different colors and designs of the same chest protector. On the contrary, we offer different MMA chest protectors, each of a special kind and with unique protective properties. This means you can find anything below, from heavy-duty body armor to light and innovative protectors you can roll with.
Another very important aspect is the price. Chest protectors are not small pieces of gear, and often cost more than fighters are willing to pay. All of the best MMA chest protectors below come with the best possible deals, price-wise. They offer not just optimal protection but are also more than affordable. Plus, most of them can easily fit into your MMA gym bag or backpack making them easily portable.
ROAR MMA CHEST GUARD
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Features:
Rex leather
EVA Foam padding
Dual-color combinations
Adjustable
Long-lasting
Kicking things off is the Roar MMA Chest Guard. The reason it is called the ‘trainer’s” vest is that Muay Thai coaches often wear this type of protection when training kicks. It is mainly a frontal chest protector, but there’s also some lateral protection too. Moreover, it is a high-quality piece of MMA sparring gear that also comes at a top price!
Where to start with this one? If you’re looking to keep your chest area safe, you can’t really go wrong with the Roar chest guard. The outer material of the MMA chest protector is rex leather, offering unrivaled durability. No matter how often you use this protector, it’ll easily last you your entire MMA career.
The padding is EVA Foam that offers immense impact absorption. Moreover, it is layered in multiple layers, ensuring safety even against expert kickers. The chest protector is available in junior and senior sizes, both easily adjustable to fit everyone within those categories. There’s an easy closure system at the back that lets you put it on and off without hassle. Available in black color, with white target areas and vice versa. Long Term Money Back Guarantee.
RDX MMA CHEST GUARD BODY PROTECTOR
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Features:
Maya hide leather
EVA-LUTION 18mm Foam
Hook-and-loop nylon strap closure system
T-3 triple Nylon stitching
CE Certified Approved
RDX is a brand proficient at high-quality protective MMA gear so understandably, it features high in our best MMA chest protectors 2021 guide. Their Chest Protector chest guard is one of the best pieces of protective MMA gear you can get. It is the perfect chest protector for beginners, as it offers lots of protection for a very low price.
The RDX Chest Guard Body Protector has a patented Maya hide leather exterior that is so durable it is armor by itself. Still, with top-grade protection in mind, special laminated foam completes this extra though chest protector. The foam is 18mm EVA-LUTION foam with a further 24MM lamination.
As far as protection goes this is the most shock-absorbent padding in our 2021 guide. The RDX Body Protector is easily adjustable with hook and loop elastic Nylon straps. Despite this, the protector is available in different sizes, S/M and L/XL.
The stitching of this chest protector is triple Nylon and feature PU piping to guarantee sturdiness and durability. It is available in red color, with blue on the inside. The two faces of the chest guard are reversible.
WESING CHEST PROTECTOR
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Features:
Oxford leather
XPE foaming
Bamboo chips for better impact absorption
Backstrap with buckle
Unisex
Lightweight
The Wesing MMA chest protector is the first one in our best MMA chest protectors 2021 guide that features bamboo chips. It is a protective MMA gear of the highest quality that is used by pro fighters across the globe. Featuring state-of-the-art technology and an unbelievably comfortable fit, this is one of the top chest protectors you can get, amateur or pro.
Durable solid sewing Oxford leather is the material that forms the outer shell of the Wesing ChestProtector. The padding features a special XPE technology construction that ensures that shock gets dissipated before it can reach your body. As far as contact sports go, this protector offers the greatest protection possible. It comes in black, red or blue color. The protector covers the entire chest and belly area, along with your sides. Available size small to XX-large it features adjustable straps with a buckle closure at the back. Lightweight and very thin, yet capable of extreme shock absorption and rebound.
CONTENDER FIGHT SPORTS HEAVY HITTER BODY PROTECTOR
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The Contender Fight Sports Body Protector is the heaviest duty piece of protective gear in this guide. This one is old-school allowing for maximal shock absorption. It is bulky though, and you can’t grapple with it, but you can certainly go all out when it comes to striking. One of the sturdiest designs you’ll ever see, as far as MMA chest protectors go.
The Contender Fight Sports Heavy Hitter Body Protector is specifically designed to withstand the highest possible amounts of impact. The material is once again synthetic leather, ultra-tough, and very easy to keep clean. There are extra strong Nylon straps that allow you to easily get the chest protector on and off. The protection here extends to the ribs, covering the entire ribcage area.
A special dense shock-absorbing foam ensures nothing will penetrate through the padding. Perfect for MMA training, as well as Muay Thai or Taekwondo. Comes in one size only, completely adjustable thanks to the straps. Available in a black and white design, with the Contender Sports logo on the target areas.
RDX RING TO CAGE WOMEN’S CHEST PROTECTOR
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As promised, RDX features yet again in our best MMA chest protectors 2021 guide. this time, though, it is a very advanced, highly functional MMA-specific chest protector. It is my personal preference and I recommend it very highly. It not only looks extremely cool but offers the best protection modern technology can develop.
The RDX Rib Shield Armor is just that – literally, an armor. It features an ergonomic and modern design, lightweight, and very slim. Moreover, it conforms to your body perfectly, minimally affecting movement and allowing for much more efficient sparring. The outside is once again, RDX’s signature Maya Hide synthetic leather, which is CE Certified Approved.
The padding is EVA-LUTION foam that is capable of absorbing anything you throw at it. Special Nylon stitching provides added security and durability. The straps allow maximum adjustment, interlacing at the back to offer a perfect fit and extreme comfort. Extremely modern design available in black, and a black and white combination. Sizes include S/M and L/XL.
ZICAC MEN’S SPORTS SHOCK RASHGUARD
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The final entry in our best MMA chest protectors 2021 guide is a special one indeed. It looks nothing like the chest protectors we saw before. It is actually a state-of-the-art protector, offering specific protection and maximal movement. If you’re looking to spar life, with grappling included, this is the only chest protector that makes sense.
The Zicac SHock Rashguard is a hybrid between a rashguard and a chest protector. Since it is a hybrid, it features a bit of both. ti looks pretty much like a regular rashguard, bar highlighted areas on the chest, shoulders, and ribs. The highlighted areas are the target areas and are where protective padding comes into play.
The material of the rashguard is Polyester and Spandex with special EVA foam padding. In fact, the foam is in the shape of an anti-collision EVA particle that offers crazy levels of impact absorption. The rashguard is very breathable, conforms perfectly to the body, and has moisture-wicking properties. Available in sizes S-XL and a long and short-sleeved black design.
Things to Consider When Picking MMA Chest Protectors
Now that we’re clear on what chest protectors are and which are the best MMA chest protectors of 2021, let’s tackle some frequently asked questions. For example, how did we pick these particular chest protectors as the best ones you can get in 2021? Well, there are several things you need to know.
The most important thing you need to know is the level of protection, and that has everything to do with the padding inside the best MMA chest protectors. There are two main types of padding that do the trick. One is Polyurethane Foam, which is more common. The second is Silicon gel, which is a modern option that usually means a pricier product. the gel offers pretty much the same protection as foam, but it is not nearly as thick, making much more comfortable protectors. This brings us to a second FAQ – types.
Chest protectors come in three main models or types. The simplest one protects only the chest area and is one you commonly see in MMA gyms. With the second type, which also covers the back, you get double the protection. these are particularly great for standup live sparring. The third and final type is the full protection one, extending from your neck to your waist and covering your torso in 360 degrees.
This is also the bulkiest but offers the best possible protection. Which type you use depends on whether or not you have an injury and the type of sparring or training you’re doing.
Just as a side note, chest guards (most of them) are not machine washable. That means you’ll need to make a habit of cleaning yours after training, by wiping it down with some antibacterial wipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best chest protector?
What is a chest protector?
Why do you need an MMA chest protector?
How do you put on an MMA chest protector?
Is a chest guard going to interfere with your movement?
Conclusion
Protecting your ribs during MMA training is nothing too complex. Especially now that you know which are the best MAM chest protectors. Not only that, but you have options to choose from, depending on your sparring goals. From heavy-duty old-school protectors to body armor rashguards you can find everything right here in our 2021 guide.
Are you looking for the best women BJJ Gi in 2021? If yes, then you have are exactly in the right place.
There are certain things that you need to keep in mind when buying the best BJJ Gi for women. For starters, it is important to understand the difference between men’s and women’s Jiu-Jitsu Gis.
While there are a variety of factors such as weight, sleeve length, etc., we have narrowed down some of the most important ones below.
You don’t have to worry about anything at all because we have done all the research for you. During our study, we analyzed some of the best BJJ Gis available for women on the market.
After careful analysis and hours of research, we were able to shortlist the best ones for you. We have compiled a list for you so that you can select the one that you find best for your needs.
Best Women’s BJJ Gi 2021
Venum Women’s Challenger 2.0 BJJ GI
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The Venum Challenger Gi is pretty much a classic at this point. The Challenger series feature, not just female Gis, but also male and even children’s Gis. This company is so great, they are having their second version. They will soon have a third edition.
This best-selling Gi has everything the ladies need, regardless if they’re just rolling or looking to win the Worlds.
Let’s start with variety. This Gi comes in three different colors, all of which are allowed for competition. All of their versions (blue, white, and black) feature pink embroidery on the front and back as well as patches on the shoulders.
This is a 420 gsm pearl weave Gi that’s on the lighter-weight side. The material of both the jacket and pants is 100 % cotton, with strategically reinforced areas and last-gen tech seams.
Overall, the construction of the Venum Challenger 2.0 Women’s BJJ Gi guarantees durability and top performance. These Gis are available in all the standard sizes for women, starting with a W or F before the size number.
Another thing that makes them so great is their washing machine-friendly structure. Together all these features make it stand out from the crowd.
Features
100% Cotton
Embroidery on the front and back of the jacket, as well as shoulder patches
Lightweight and comfy
Super sturdy construction that will last for years.
Available in all standard size ranges starting with a W or F before the size number.
Machine washable structure. Weighs about 300 g
Built-in drawstring pants.
Double reinforced knee padding.
Available in a range of colors including blue, black, and pink.
Pros
Comes in all standard sizes for women
Embroidery on the front and back of its jacket, as well as patches on both shoulders.
consists of 100% cotton, making it very lightweight and comfy
Super sturdy construction and will last for years.
Cons
The price is a little high.
Limited to BJJ only and doesn’t work well for other martial arts
FUJI IBJJF WOMEN’S BJJ GI
Fuji Women’s BJJ GI
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As far as signature ladies Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gis go, there’s no kimono better than the Fuji IBJJF Women’s Gi. This women’s BJJ gi is available in colors other than pink.
It is also good and better than some of the best women’s BJJ Gis that is on our list now. In fact, this Gi has the trifecta – great fit, great performance, and great price.
Let’s take a closer look at the Fuji IBJJF Women’s BJJ Gi. This Gi is, as the name suggests IBJJF approved. However, this holds only for the regular, blue, black, and white colors.
The pink one, which is the most utilized one, is still only good for training, rolling, and other competing platforms. The construction of this Gi focuses precisely on what ladies need.
The sleeves are somewhat shorter, allowing for a more ideal fit as well as performance advantages. The waistline is also smaller compared to men’s pants, allowing for a much better feel.
The material is, of course, 100% cotton for both the jacket and pants. The Gi is not only available in different colors, but also in 11 different sizes, allowing for an unforgettable BJJ experience.
Features
100% cotton jacket and pants
11 sizes to choose from
Different colors available
Ibjjf approved
Semi-stiff collar for a snug, comfortable fit.
Best Women’s BJJ Gi 2021
Pros
Best Women’s BJJ Gi 2021
Ibjjf approved for regular, black and white colors are not available in the pink color which is most utilized one.
The sleeves are shortened to allow a better fit as well as performance advantages.
A smaller waistline allows for much more comfortable wearing
Cons
Some users are not happy with its construction
FLUORY Lightweight BJJ Gi
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The next one on our list of the best women’s BJJ Gi 2021 is the FLUORY Lightweight BJJ Gi.
This particular product allows for a more free flow, making it perfect for summer training. Besides that, this BJJ gi has 11 different sizes with an easy-to-use size chart on the website to help you find your best fit every time.
The company also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee as well as free shipping for customers in the United States. Apart from that, this Gi for BJJ features a reinforced collar to prevent stretching, a cinched side-skirt for better fit and comfort.
When it comes to the sleeves of this Gi for BJJ, they are made of a soft, lightweight material that is resistant to wear and tear. The pants also feature knee reinforcements for increased durability.
However, during our research, we noticed a drawback and we wanted to tell you about it. Although it is a very minor shortcoming still we want to be 100% honest with our readers because our goal is to help you out.
The main disadvantage of this Gi is that the pants are not as durable as other products on our list. However, it doesn’t mean that this women’s Gi for BJJ is not good at all.
Features
A reinforced collar prevents stretching
Cinched side skirt for better fit and comfort
Lightweight fabric sleeves that resist wear and tear
Knee reinforcements to increase durability.
Pros
extremely lightweight
very comfortable
suitable for all weather conditions
Perfect for longer training sessions
Easy to wear
washing friendly
Cons
The pants needs a little improvement
Elite Sports Ultra-Light Women’s BJJ Gi
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Elite sports is also one of the best brands when it comes to BJJ gear. During our research, we noticed that the brand produces some of the best quality BJJ Gis for both men and women.
After a bit more research, we found the Elite Sports’ ultra-lightweight women’s BJJ Gi. we dug a bit more and found some interesting facts that made us include it in our list of the best women’s BJJ Gis.
This particular Gi comes in a beautiful pink color, making it perfect for female fighters. However, looks aren’t the only thing that makes it so interesting. Besides a beautiful-looking design, the Gi features sturdy construction, making it durable for an extended duration.
Having that said, it is extremely comfortable which will let you focus completely on your training without any issue at all. Apart from that, the jacket and the pant both are washing machine friendly and can easily be washed without any problem.
However, we wouldn’t recommend using any harsh chemicals or detergents for cleaning purposes because those cleaning agents may ruin their quality. The outclass stitching of this BJJ Gi makes it stand out from the crowd.
It is stitched so perfectly that it doesn’t come apart even after a rigorous training session. Besides that, the Gi is also easy to put on and take off. So you can quickly change from one outfit to another without wasting time at all.
Features
Comfortable and easy to wear
Durable stitching that doesn’t come apart after rigorous training sessions.
Easy to wash in a washing machine without any harsh chemicals or detergents.
Pros
Modern design and color
light in weight.
It has a great length which helps the practitioner to stay cool during training sessions.
Easily washable
Easy to wear
long-lasting performance
Cons
As such no drawbacks were found.
SUNRISE LADIES BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU GI
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Time to go into the pink and fluffy side of things. Let’s not forget, ladies out there have different tastes and preferences, and this Gi has proven to be a real best seller!
The brand might not be as well known as Venum, Strom, or Fuji, but the Gi is of the utmost quality nonetheless. As far as color varieties go, the SunRise Ladies BJJ gi offers more than any other in our best women’s BJJ Gi 2021 guide.
On the subject of variety in design, there are a total of 10 different designs. It is not just the colors that are different, though, ranging from white and able to black, yellow, and purple.
There’s also different embroidery, featuring the likes of teddy bears, flowers, and kittens. Despite the fluffy design, this Gi is one of the sturdiest out there. It is lightweight and made from 100% cotton.
It features an EVA foam collar and provides amazing breathability. The Gi comes completely pre-shrunk, so what you see is what you get. The pants are a slim cut and come in the shape of full rip-stop pants with a round drawstring.
The cuff lining features three rows of reinforced stitching providing maximal durability and strength. Furthermore, there are no back seams since the Gi is constructed out of one piece.
The Gi features a female-only construction with a strong pearl weaver. Embroidery is on the sleeves, jacket, and pants. Last but not least, the Gi is available in two colors: white and blue.
Features
Made from 100% cotton
EVA foam collar for better breathability
Comes pre-shrunked and guaranteed to be shaped how it was designed.
Available in two colors: white and blue.
Pros
Great for training
Lightweight and comfortable to wear
No back seams which makes it more durable
They offer size charts that are very accurate
Cons
Some women may find it a bit long
It does not come with a belt
Tatami Ladies Zero G V3 BJJ Gi
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Tatami ladies is another top choice for those who are looking for the best women BJJ gi in 2021. It comes with fantastic features that make it an excellent choice for longer training sessions.
There are a few things that we love about this particular Gi and we are going to tell you about it. The first and the most important thing is the color that it comes in.
In case you are wondering, it is available in three different colors making it one of the best available options in 2021. If you are picky about colors then we assure you that Tatami will never disappoint you.
The next thing we love about this particular gi has to do with its weight: it’s lightweight! The fabric offers both durability and comfort, so you will not get too tired or hot throughout your training session.
This Gi is perfect for a woman who wants to make an impact with her style while still getting good quality gear at the same time. Another thing worth mentioning about this particular Gi is that it is available in sizes ranging from A0 to E0.
The last thing that we love about this Gi has to do with its price: It isn’t the cheapest available product on the market but still it is worth every single penny spent on.
What makes Tatami such an excellent choice for women is that they are a BJJ brand specialized in making gear for female fighters, which means they know what they are doing and have been successful in it.
Features
Comes in three colors
available in different sizes
Perfect stitching
Pros
Good quality
Affordable
Stylish design.
Cons
It is not 100% pre-shrunk
Sanabul Essentials V.2 BJJ Jiu Jitsu Gi
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Coming up on number 7 on our list of the best Women’s BJJ Gis in 2021 is the Sanabul Essentials V.
The first thing that you will notice about this Gi has to do with its design: It manages to be both stylish and eye-catching. That means it is perfect for people who want something different and also original.
Besides that, it’s important to point out that this Gi is durable and made of high-quality fabric. It can withstand the toughest training sessions you put it through.
Another thing that makes it a great choice in 2021 is its price: It is one of the most affordable ones on our list. It is available in six different colors that give you a wide range of options to choose from according to your needs.
In addition to this, the Gi features a washable design that allows you to clean it without any issue at all. Moreover, we wouldn’t recommend using a washing machine to clean it because the washing machine will ruin its quality.
It is a lightweight Gi ideal for beginners because it won’t get in the way during your match or training sessions.
Features
light and durable.
Stylish Design
Available in six different colors.
Hand Washable Design
100% cotton
Pros
Stylish design
Durable fabric that can withstand tough training sessions
Affordable price
Cons
It shrinks after washing with hot water
Jayefo Sports Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi
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The next option on our list of the best women’s BJJ Gi 2021 comes from Jayefo Sports. Considering the price, this is a great option for those who are looking to save some money but still enjoy high quality.
Moreover, it uses 100% cotton fabric which makes it resistant against any type of damage or wear and tears that may occur during your training sessions. It is available in six different colors, making it a very attractive option as well.
It is hand washable and can be hung to dry which makes life much easier in general. It will help you clean it easily without any issue at all. Furthermore, many people find that this Gi is very well-stitched and won’t come off during training or during intense matches.
Another thing that is worth mentioning is that it comes with a free white belt. This belt features a rank bar, which will help you save money and time when looking for the perfect one.
Unfortunately, this Gi shrinks when washed with hot water so make sure you use cold or lukewarm water instead for the best results. This is the only drawback of this Gi in our opinion.
Features
Great design
Free white belt with rank bar included
Very well stitched
Cotton based construction
Pros
Comes with a free white belt
Durable material
Well stitched and reinforced seams
Washing friendly
Cons
Shrinks when washed with hot water
Gold BJJ Ultra Light Jiu Jitsu Gi
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Gold BJJ is another top-quality product we found that can fulfill your needs if you are looking for the best women BJJ Gi in 2021. The first thing that we love about it is its ultra-lightweight design. It feels so comfortable and will never annoy you even if you wear it for extended periods.
Apart from that, the Gi consists of high-quality material, making it very promising when it comes to durability. Best of all, it is very easy to wash and dry. This can be a huge advantage if you are into training often.
In addition to this, it is available in two different colors. This gives you the option to choose a color that fits your needs. In our opinion, the white one looks fantastic but it totally depends on your choice.
The only problem we found with this Gi was that the sizing wasn’t accurate for some customers. They were either too tight or too big depending on their height, but other than that, this Gi is perfect.
Features
High-quality material
Easy to wash and dry
Comes in two colors (white, black)
Pros
washing friendly design
easy to wear and put off
long-lasting performance
not very expensive
Cons
not a perfect fit for everyone
SunRise Ladies Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Suit
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Last but not least, we have the SunRise Ladies Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Suit. This Gi is made of 100% cotton and comes in two different sizes (A0, A00). Besides that, the suit features an EVA foam collar, which is comfortable and easy to wear.
The suit possesses a high-quality structure as we mentioned earlier. It allows the suit to last for years and withstand the toughest training sessions. It is available in 7 different colors, allowing you to choose the one that you love.
We recommend getting dark colors as they will not get dirty easily like bright colors. However, it isn’t a hard and fast rule and you can select anyone you like. Moreover, the suit features a perfectly stitched design that allows it to last for years.
You will be amazed to hear that the suit possesses embroidery on its sleeves. It is something that adds to its overall beauty and will let you not only train but look gorgeous in the dojo.
It is suitable for both shorter and taller women due to the availability in different sizes. In addition to this, it is available at a budget-friendly price in the market, allowing it to be affordable for everyone. Whether you are a student or having a tight budget you won’t face any issue at all.
Features
Promising quality
Reliable build material
Single piece construction
Available in different sizes
Pros
It is available in different sizes, providing it to be suitable for shorter and taller people.
The suit possesses embroidery on its sleeves which adds to the beauty of the overall design.
Due to their affordability, they are a good option for students or those with a tight budget.
Cons
Doesn’t come with a belt
Best BJJ Gi 2021 – Buyer’s Guide
Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind while looking for the best BJJ gi in 2021. Keeping these things in mind will help you select the right product for your needs even if you are a complete beginner.
After reading this guide, we assure you that you will feel confident in finding and making your purchase.
Size of the Jacket
Since this is a women-specific gi, the jacket size will be smaller than that of a man’s. The best way to find out what size you should buy would be by finding your shirt and pant size on the chart below.
The most common sizes are A0 (extra small), Aogami or Rooster (small), A0vex (medium), and Bugei or Manto (large). In order to select the right size jacket for yourself, you need to keep your body type in mind.
Adequate Weight of the Buyer
The weight of the buyer is also an important factor to consider. If you are a petite girl, then going for lightweights would be perfect whereas if you are someone who has size 12-14 trousers and wears large shirts, medium weights should do just fine.
The main reason why you should consider your weight is because to avoid discomfort and bunching up of the fabric in certain parts of your body.
Design of the Gi
The design of the Gi is another factor that you should take into consideration. If you like bright colors, then there are lots of them to choose from. If you like simple designs with few lines, then you can buy those too. Just keep in mind that in most competitions you can compete only in White, Blue or Black colored Gi.
It’s all about what your style preference is!
Sleeve Length
When it comes to the size of the sleeves, make sure that they cover your wrist.
This is to avoid chafing and discomfort when you are wearing them during your training sessions or in a match.
The longer ones will be better as compared to shorter ones because if you tie up the Gi tightly then there won’t be any chances for the sleeves to come undone.
The sleeve length is crucial especially if you are training or in a match. If they don’t cover your wrist then there can be certain issues like chafing and discomfort of the fabric on some parts of your body.
Also, make sure that they have enough space so that when you tighten the Gi, they do not come undone.
Type of Material
The type of material is also one important factor to keep in mind. You need a Gi that will absorb the sweat and dry quickly. You can do this by choosing cotton or linen fabric as these materials are known for their ability to dry up easily even after heavy use.
Also, you would want something which is comfortable on your skin because so much movement inside the Gi might lead to friction with other parts of the body like elbows, knees, etc.
For those who have sensitive skins then go for fabrics like silk or hemp – they are more durable and softer on your skin than others types of fibers used in making BJJ Gis.
Different people have different needs when it comes to what kind of material suits them best while wearing a BJJ Gi. Your skin type, your sensitivity to certain fabrics, and the climate are all important factors that should be kept in mind while buying any Women’s Gi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a BJJ Gi?
A- A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi, or simply put – a BJJ Gi for women. It’s the uniform that is worn by practitioners of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to train in. The blazer has a part that you can move – usually made out of cotton or polyester.
The top part consists of two rectangular pieces sewn together on the sides with a lapel (collar) and sleeve cuffs. Besides that, it is also used as a piece of clothing for outside. This means it’s clothing to wear when you are not wearing shoes or socks.
How Do You Size a Bjj Gi?
The best way is to measure from your hips all the way up. If you are wearing a belt, make sure it’s not on before measuring, and then take the measurement again afterward without using the belt.
Beltless – Measurements should be in inches;
With Belt – measurements should be in centimeters.
Measure from the widest part of your hips or waist. Measure from the top of your chest, below the neckline on the front, to where you would like it to be at the bottom of your skirt. Add a few inches for seam allowance at hem level for stretchy material.
How Many Gis Should I Own?
One Gi is considered enough for most people. You can and should wash your Gi after every use, which will need to be done at least once a week depending on wear.
How Tight Should a Bjj Gi Be?
Many people may think a BJJ Gi should be tight, but in reality, it needs to be loose enough for you to move and breathe. You should always choose the right size and make sure that you are comfortable while wearing your BJJ Gi.
However, if you buy a Gi that is too tight or too loose then you will not be able to completely focus on your training.
How Long Do Bjj Gis Last?
The life of BJJ Gi depends upon the material used in its construction. Besides that, the stitching of the Gi also plays an important role.
Generally, the BJJ Gis are available in two types: cotton and synthetic. Cotton Gi will last you for more than a year if it is properly taken care of while the synthetic one lasts between six to eight months.
Additionally, some specialty gis can be washed over and over again without any effects on their performance or quality.
Moreover, there are also some gis that are available on the market with a warranty.
Nevertheless, it is always recommended to exercise caution while washing your BJJ GIs as over-washing will cause damage to its fabric and stitching.
Final Words
We hope if you have made it this far then you may have selected the right BJJ Gi for yourself. However, if you are still not sure what to pick then allow us to help you.
According to our study, the Sanabul Essentail’s BJJ Gi proves to be the best women BJJ Gi in 2021. It features a long-lasting structure that is because of the super high-quality material used in it.
Moreover, it is also enthusiastically stitched and will never disappoint you during your training or your fights. Apart from that, the Elite Sports Gi proves to be the best budget overall option.
We hope you have enjoyed reading this article, If you found it helpful please share it with your friends and family. Sharing it will not cost you a dime but you can make someone’s day by helping them choosing the best women Bjj gi in 2021.
The worst injury you can get in MMA, BJJ, or any other contact martial art has to be an injury to the shoulder. That makes life a living hell for a while. The number one contender to this “champion” injury is an injury to the shoulder. Here, there are not just plenty of ways to get hurt, but also plenty of different structures you can injure.
Moreover, a hurt shoulder translates to the ability to do exactly nothing. Training aside, a tweaked, or seriously injured shoulder will prevent you from doing anything. In fact, even laying down is a problem.
When it comes to returning to training, that shoulder has great chances of ending up injured again. Unless you secure one of the Best MMA and BJJ Shoulder Braces for yourself. Today’s focus will be on shoulder support for MMA and BJJ students, and the best braces that make a difference.
The shoulders are joints that are easy to get hurt even under the best of circumstances. In MMA, BJJ, or any other grappling sport, a shoulder injury can spell the end of your career just as easily as a knee injury. Together, those joints can really affect not just your MMA or BJJ career, but your overall quality of life. Training with a shoulder injury is not just difficult because of the pain.
The anatomy of the joint is such that taping it up to relieve pain is notoriously difficult. However, there is some specialty protective and supportive gear out there that’ll allow you to train. Not many regular shoulder braces are strong enough to help you with your training but we guide you to the best BJJ and MMA shoulder braces of 2021 that can.
What to Look For In A Shoulder Brace
A shoulder brace needs to compress and support your shoulder. It is as easy as that. However, you need to be aware of a host of different factors as well. Does that brace restrict, or support movement? Is it appropriate for the type and, more importantly, the severity of the injury that you’re nursing? Are you just coming back from injury or trying to train with a fresh one? How about price, brand, material, etc? The best BJJ and MMA shoulder braces are capable of them all.
Let’s start with support. Shoulder injuries heal properly only when you manage to rest the shoulder. That includes the recovery period as well, and in particular, training with a tweaked shoulder. To that extent, the first priority is keeping your joint tightly together. that means preventing further dislocations, as well as subsequent muscle, tendon, and/or ligament tears. Shoulder braces come in different shapes and sizes, according to what they need to protect.
Some braces are heavy-duty and will keep your shoulder in place without a glitch. they are, however, impossible to train with, and you need to wear them while resting. Looser shoulder braces mean you can move more thanks to compression but you get less support. This is a trade-off you always need to consider.
Adjustability is also a huge aspect of shoulder supportive gear. A brace needs to fit snugly but also encompass all shoulder tissues in order to provide relief. Furthermore, if you’re going to train with one, you need it to be breathable and moisture-wicking. That means high-quality materials that are friendly to your skin and will last through the rigors of MMA, BJJ, or grappling training.
Best MMA and BJJ Shoulder Braces
The shoulder braces guide has one main goal – to help you keep your shoulders pain and injury-free. that said, these braces are usually not a preemptive piece of gear. That means that wearing a brace on healthy shoulders won’t do too much good. Quite the opposite, in fact, as it may weaken your shoulder structure.
On the other hand, a brace is not a solution for severely dislocated shoulder, muscle/ligament/tendon tears, or other serious injuries. Anything in between, though, and one of the best shoulder braces of 2021 is going to have a major impact on your training.
There’s also one aspect to wearing a shoulder brace that you might not know. it takes a while to get used to wearing one and training with one. Moreover, if it is a restrictive brace meant to prevent you from taking your shoulder too far, you might find it uncomfortable at first. Allow for an adjustment period and never try and work through a shoulder brace, or it won’t do you any good. With that in mind, let’s move on to the reviews.
1.EVS SPORTS SHOULDER BRACE
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The EVS sports shoulder brace is the first entry in our best shoulder braces for MMA and BJJ in the 2021 guide. This is a shoulder brace that provides high levels of support while also allowing you to train. As such, it is perfect for small rotator cuff injuries, or muscle sprains and tears. Moreover, it is very comfortable to wear and not bulky at all.
The EVS sports shoulder brace is a brace that delivers maximal compression and support. It features innovative materials that provide great breathability due to mesh panel integration. TPR gripper pull-tabs further make things easier.
The brace is extremely easy to pull on and take off, and it fits both the left or right shoulder. An adjustable arm closure system means you can fit just about any size arm into this brace.
The main closure system is via X-strap technology that eliminates chafing. Available in sizes small, medium, extra-large, and XX-large. Consult the measurement chart to figure out exactly what size is perfect for you.
The Babo Care shoulder brace takes things up a notch, compared to the EVS sports brace. This one, although not really heavy-duty, allows for much more shoulder stability than the previous one. It also covers a wider range of injuries, but also comes with more movement restrictions as well. Still, it is one of the best tools you can use to make sure you train effectively with a faulty shoulder joint.
The one thing that immediately stands out about this shoulder brace is the pressure pad. It allows you to add an ice pack or a hot pad on the brace just as you finish training. In cases of tendonitis, this is an irreplaceable feature. The material is extremely breathable Neoprene that’s ultra-comfortable and lightweight.
There is a combination of ultra-strong Velcro straps and high-grade plastic buckles that allow for maximal adjusting. The brace fits the left or right shoulder and works just a well for both sexes. It provides great support and top compression, reducing pain, speeding up recovery, and protecting your shoulder from further harm. Comes with a 45-day money-back guarantee.
Whenever you read “Shock Doctor” you can rest assured that you’re getting the highest quality protective gear for combat sports. Their shoulder support brace is right up there with their best product. It offers amazing levels of stability and aids in the recovery of injuries common to BJJ, MMA, and grappling training, like AC, sprains, and rotator cuff injuries.
This shoulder brace can fit both men and women, but it is designed for men and usually fits them much better. When it comes to ligament injuries (which are the most common with combat athletes) there’s no better brace than this one. Sprains, tears, joint instability, etc. all benefit from this brace. The anatomic design ensures the strap can fit on either shoulder. It is made from soft lycra, combined with N-Tex airflow technology to keep moisture out.
There are two chest straps that help adjust the fit perfectly. A Multi-position X strap stabilizer provides options to position the brace for maximal stability and compression. Available in 5 different sizes. As far as the best shoulder braces for BJJ and MMA that allow you to train while offering maximal protection are concerned, this one is a clear winner.
If the Shock Doctor brace is a better fit for men then this one is all about helping the finer half with MMA and BJJ-related shoulder issues. The Strong AID shoulder brace is a lightweight, comfortable, adjustable shoulder support brace. It is irreplaceable when it comes to dislocations, rotator cuff trauma, or any serious shoulder injury.
IF you’re looking for the perfect balance of shoulder support and shoulder compression, this is the brace for you. The Strong AID shoulder brace support is a triple-stitched, high-quality brace with premium Velcro grips. it is extremely comfortable, breathable, easy to wash, and quick to dry.
Given that it is extremely lightweight you can wear it both over or under your MMA or BJJ rashguard or a shirt. It is even comfortable enough to sleep with. It fits either shoulder with plenty of adjustment options. Available in S/M and L/XL as well as black, grey, or purple color. Comes with a 100% money-back guarantee.
The usual post-injury recipe is RICE – Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Well, the McDavid Thermal shoulder brace allows for them all, providing one of the best recovery tools you’ll ever find. Many things land it among the best shoulder braces of 2021, but the freedom of movement it offers is definitely its best trait.
McDavid is a brand that has been providing the highest-grade sports protective gear for almost half a century now. This is a grade 1 injury brace, meaning that if you have something serious, you should opt for one of the heavier duty braces in our guide. Any shoulder inflammation or minor trauma up to dislocation is covered by this brace. The material is latex-free neoprene of the highest class, providing not just compression but also thermal properties.
The lightweight, unrestrictive, and breathable design means you can wear it for long periods of time. A hook and loop closure system with straps allows for maximal adjustability. Fits on either shoulder and is perfect for both men and women. Comes with a McDavid guarantee of quality and satisfaction.
Fintech’s shoulder brace is another shoulder brace that has an extended purpose. It provides great stability and aids recovery in many different ways. Perfect for both training, resting, or sleeping. As far as the best Jiu-jitsu and MMA shoulder braces go, this one is by far the most versatile one. In fact, this is a sort of a hybrid of all the other braces we reviewed above.
The Fintech Shoulder Brace has several qualities. First up, it offers strong, high-grade stability to the shoulder joint. Then, it provides not just overall pressure, but specific pressure as well, to soothe shooting pains. It both speeds up recovery and protects from further injury. For a lightweight, Neoprene brace this one provides exceptional levels of stability and covers just about every injury.
Moreover, it features a pocket that can hold a hot or cold pack, depending on what you may need. The highly adjustable brace can be worn on either shoulder. It fits both men and women and is available in two sizes (S/M and L/XL). Comes in black, mint, or pink and with a 45-day full refund guarantee.
Training Around shoulder Injuries In MMA and BJJ
It would be unprofessional and irresponsible of me to advise anyone to train with an injury. Even more so when that training is MMA, BJJ, Grappling, or other combat training. Of course, this also includes strength and conditioning as well. However, under certain circumstances (upcoming fight, major tournament, an injury that’s not too serious) this can be done. In those cases, protecting the vulnerable/injured shoulder is of paramount importance.
The first thing to remove from MAM training might be a surprise one – contact work. However, this does not mean sparring. On the contrary, light MMA sparring, particularly striking is fine, as long as you’re wearing one of the best shoulder braces from our guide.
Impact training, the likes of focus mitts or bag work, is entirely out of question. In sparring, you can go as light or as hard as you want. and use stance, motion, kicks, and, carefully, clinching, to mitigate the stress on your shoulders. Shadowboxing is another aspect of striking you can safely train, just mind the explosiveness if the shoulder is still tender.
For grappling training, certain technical stuff and even position sparring are perfectly ok. Full-out grappling matches and in particular, takedowns, are out of bounds for any type of shoulder injury. Pushups are out as well as is heavy bench pressing. Light upper bodywork, chin-ups, and lots of resistance bands work is the norm. A shoulder injury is also a great opportunity to get you running and increase your aerobic capacity as well.
In Summary
Do not take shoulder injuries lightly because they can force you out of Mixed Martial Arts or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu completely very fast. If you have any ache or pain, give it a little rest. Or, even better, pick up any of the best shoulder braces for 2021 to make sure you resolve your issue and do not cause further damage to the shoulder. After all, shoulder injuries usually require time and patience, and training without a brace is only going to complicate things.
To someone who predominantly trains in grappling (for almost a decade now) wearing socks is never my first action when I step on the mats. In certain cases, however, I simply had to wear them, given specific situations. I’ll touch more on what those situations might be for combat athletes later on. The important thing, for now, is that you do not have to wear your every day, very slippery, and sometimes stinky socks when you’re training in MMA, BJJ, or grappling. There are, instead, socks that are highly specialized and serve that exact purpose. And we have the absolute Best Grappling Socks of 2021 all lined up for you.
What are grappling socks? Well, they’re just what they sound like. A pair of socks that have a special design and purpose – to help you during grappling or even striking training, for that matter. AS such they’re not quite socks like we know them, nor boxing or wrestling shoes. they’re the perfect hybrid, somewhere in the middle of the two. They also bring about the best of both worlds. I have to admit I fell in love with them as soon as I got a pair. However, not all are going to serve a purpose and you might just end up with a very expensive pair of funny-looking socks. Unless you know what you’re getting – the very best grappling socks of 2021. Let’s take a look at some of the available options.
Combat Sports And Hygiene
From ringworm to MRSA and very annoying bug in between, combat sports gym are notorious for the spread of skin diseases. This is completely normal given what goes on during training. First up, there’s lots of interpersonal contact with sweaty people. Furthermore, training takes place on the mats, literally, exposing all of your body’s surface to whatever’s lurking on them. Then, there’s sparring gear. From MMA gloves and hand wraps, all the way to helmets and shinpads, they can all carry germs under the right conditions. Of course, personal hygiene ranks at the top of this list, and that’s precisely where the best grappling socks come in.
The feet are something we don’t pay a lot of attention to when training. Until some small scrape starts changing colors and oozing things. what happens in most cases is we put something on it, tape it up and keep going. Sometimes, this resolves the situation. Sometimes we need to follow up with a doctor and in MRSA cases it can get really tricky and complicated. Keeping a clean gym and taking care of personal hygiene are the two most important steps. However, covering up your feet when you have a sore, scrape, or anything of the sort is also a must.
Wearing grappling socks is not something we usually do. However, when the need for socks arises, and you try a pair of these, you’ll be hooked. Not that you’ll wear them every grappling session, but they’ll end up on your feet more often than not. If you’re training MMA, they’re actually one of the best things you can get, since you’re spending so much time in different gyms. And that’s just the hygiene aspect of it. Grappling socks actually provide many more benefits than just helping you stay germ-free.
Best Grappling Socks in 2021
Speaking of the properties of the best grappling socks, let’s look further than just hygiene and health. A very obvious property of grappling socks is added stability and compression. Some of the best grappling socks out there also double up as ankle braces. That means better performance and fewer injuries., On the subject of performance, the rubberized soles also provide an amazing gripping surface that brings about much safer training. This is particularly true when it comes to standup training, and particularly wrestling/takedown practice.
As far as the added benefits of grappling socks go, there’s one more aspect that was extremely important for me. That is thermal regulation, particularly if you live in an area with harsh winters. being the first on the mats in a gym that’s not properly warmed up is a horrible experience as far as your feet are concerned. Grappling socks provide thermal support on top of the performance-enhancing properties that really make an impact.
TILOS SPORT SKIN SOCKS
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Opening the best grappling socks 2021 guide is the Tilos Spot Skin Socks. While the design isn’t one specific for MMA or BJJ training, they do provide awesome options. In fact, they’re particularly great for people that are just starting to wear grappling socks for the first time. They provide every major grappling socks benefit, cost very little, and come in lots of varieties. Best-priced product in our guide!
These socks were not made just for the gym. they could also be used outdoors, providing great protection from hot sand or any kind of beach activity. They come in a total of 11 different designs, ranging from plain colored black, blue, purple, etc, to Camo and Heather designs. Sizes include everything in between 4XS and 2XS for kids, and XS and XXL for adults.
The material is very flexible Lycra, meaning whatever you do with them, they’ll conform to your feet and won’t fall off. There’s also an adjustable ankle cuff to help with getting the perfect fit. The sole is extra tough Neoprene, providing a great and very durable gripping surface. These socks help protect against anything, from blisters to some of the nastiest microbes out there. Washing machine friendly and extremely quick to dry.
ROLL HARD MMA GRAPPLING SOCKS
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This pair of grappling socks are specifically designed for MMA and grappling training. The bran is Roll Hard, which speaks volumes as to their purpose. Nothing but the highest quality materials feature in these socks, and they provide the most bang for your buck. They come in a pair and a bunch of varieties, particularly size-wise. Perfect for day-to-day use in combat sports training.
This pair of socks might be the most expensive in our best grappling socks guide (still very affordable) but are the highest performing ones by a country mile. the soles are rubberized, stretchable Neoprene with a heel to toe power traction abilities. The rubber GRIPPY texture ensures there’s absolutely no chance of slipping.
These are the perfect blend between sports socks and wrestling/boxing shoes. Extremely comfortable, lightweight, and featuring a modern ergonomic design. They provide better movement and more agility as well as immense antimicrobial protection. They also offer an extended area of protection that stretches up to include the ankle. Available in sizes XXS-XXL and a red and black color combination.
KO SPORTS GEAR GRAPPLING SOCKS
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Another pair worthy of being included in the best grappling socks 2021 guide. They are simple, yet versatile, very affordable, and offer a whole host of protective and performance-enhancing properties. They are made of a signature blend of different materials, this pair of socks is perfect for those looking for a simple solution.
The KO sports grappling socks contain a modern and innovative blend of Lycra and Neoprene. As such, they are soft, elastic, very durable, and feature a great gripping bottom surface. They come in a pair and are available in three main designs – black, red and black, and multi-color. Size range between XXS and XL. The specialized construction ensures maximal breathability and optimal floor traction. They help prevents infections, injuries, and improve movement and performance. They also have a thermal regulation capacity, meaning they’re the perfect pair of socks for those cold winter classes. In fact, I own a pair of these and they’re my go-to once the degrees begin plummeting.
RING TO CAGE MMA GRAPPLING SOCKS
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A well-known combat sports gear brand, Ring to Cage is the next entry in our best grappling socks 2021 guide. This brand has nothing but high-quality gear at very affordable prices. Their take on grappling socks is all about performance, without too much fuss. Only one design is available, but they do offer an extended range of performance qualities.
Available in sizes from extra small to extra large, these MMA grappling socks are perfect for any kind of combat sports training. Once again, special flexible Neoprene is the material of choice for the soles. Rubber GRIPPY texture provides a non-slipping surface and an enhanced grip. The material is extra sturdy and durable, offering four-way support.
In terms of comfort, these are the absolute winner out of all the entries in this guide. They’re also lightweight and very easy to put on and take off. These grappling socks are perfect for wearing under shin guards while you’re training without ever knowing they’re there. Available in black color with green along with heels. Added ankle support is included.
SANABUL FOOT GRIPS FOR MMA
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Speaking of brands that pull off high quality for impossibly low prices, Sanabul is the undisputed champion in that department, particularly when it comes to MMA, BJJ, or any combat sports gear. Their Foot Grips MMA Socks are not just state of the art, but also one of their latest issues of high-end protective MMA gear. Plenty of variety and a once-in-a-lifetime-deal price included!
Available in half a dozen different designs, these grappling socks are the latest item to come out of Sanabul’s supply line. Black in combination with green, orange, white, yellow, red, and pink provide variety, along with a size range of XS to XL. performance-wise, the socks feature nonslip foot grips that provide just the right amount of traction for MMA and grappling.
Protection includes friction, abrasion, cuts, slippage, ankle torsion, and more. They are odor-resistant, easy to wash and dry, and protect against both fungi and bacteria. The 4-way stretch Neoprene provides not just comfort, but also unrestricted movement during training.
RDX NEOPRENE ANKLE BRACE SOCKS
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The final piece of the best grappling socks puzzle is the RDX Neoprene Ankle Brace Socks. RDX in itself is a guarantee of both quality and performance. They also provide a pair of grappling socks at a cut price, when you take into account the level of quality. They feature an anatomical design and the perfect blend of high-tech materials. The design is also very cool and extremely durable.
This pair of socks actually look the closest to regular socks. They also feel as light as a regular pair of socks. They come in sizes small to large and in only one design. Completely sublimated graphics guarantee that the design won’t peel off, crack or fade. RDX has a patent on the special construction of these socks.
There’s an anatomical arch that perfectly conforms the sock to your feet. Moreover, Spandex monofilament elasticized Lycra is there to provide an enhanced fit and 4-way stretch capabilities. The socks are extremely hygienic, absorb sweat like no others, and are washing machine friendly. All in all, these are some of the best long-term grappling socks options you should consider.
Main Characteristics Of The Best Grappling Socks
As we already mentioned, the main role of the best grappling socks is to protect your foot and ankle. The first protective role is that of a barrier with the outside. The rubbery surface area of grappling socks allows for a great way to stop germs from penetrating or getting out.
Furthermore, grappling socks help protect the feet and ankles by providing a better gripping surface. The soles are usually special rubber that has a certain texture that provides more stability, even on damp and sweaty mats and surfaces. This, in turn, means fewer ankle, and even knee injuries. Not to mention all the toe twists and sprains they help prevent.
The materials used in the best grappling socks also play a huge role. Namely, the better the choice of material, the more functional socks are. For that purpose, the best options are Lucra, Spandex, and Neoprene, and any given combination of the three. Soles should be rubber and feature a special traction texture.
One huge aspect of grappling socks is also the ability to repel microbes. Antibacterial surfaces, that provide breathability and can wick moisture are non-negotiable. Every entry in this grappling socks guide provides top-class antimicrobial protection. Plus, they added the benefit of a door rendition.
When it comes to how grappling socks feel, you need to have the impression that they’re not there. Namely, grappling socks need to really conform to your foot, be extremely lightweight, and be easy to pull on and off. Finally, they need to be reasonably priced.
Conclusion
When it comes to wearing grappling socks, most combat athletes still have a long way to go. This is just down to habit though, since those who get the feel for them won’t ever look back. The best grappling socks of 2021 are a great way to ensure you get a high-quality product that’ll only help you on the mats. Grab a pair of socks and provide your feet with every edge they can get, especially in terms of hygiene and health.
Do you want to learn Brazilian Jiu-JItsu as fast as possible? Well, you’ll need two things in order to do that. First, you’ll have to turn up to every possible class. Secondly, you need the correct guide to understanding what BJJ is all about. If you really want to progress fast, you do not need to learn technique upon technique, You need to understand Jiu-Jitsu and the foundational principles behind it. The”BJJ Accelerator Blueprint” Stephen Whittier DVD is an instructional that’s aimed particularly at that.
In all honesty, I’m not a big fan of the “learn BJJ in a fraction of the time” type of DVD instructionals. Very often, they tend to be a waste of time, and, not to mention, money. On top of that, I’ve spent almost a decade in the sport, so I’m not really looking for shortcuts. That said, there are some BJJ DVD instructionals out there that can actually help you understand the sport much better. Whether you use them to progress through Jiu-Jitsu, or simply to understand certain concepts, you need to know which work and which are flukes. The Stephen Whittier DVD is one of the few that actually has something to teach people. The fact alone that it’ll help you learn means it’ll help you progress. At which speed, however, is actually all down to you.
The 40 Plus BJJ Formula
Stephen Whittier is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt that is one of those instructors that really knows what he’ talking about. After all, he is a Roberto Maia 3rd-degree Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt and a long time professional performance coach. He is one of the smartest people in the game, and one that likes to make others think instead of just copy moves. That is what the “BJJ Accelerator Blueprint” Stephen Whittier DVD is all about.
Stephen is the man behind 40 plus BJJ the help older grapplers work to their maximal potential. However, it is much more than just a system for grapplers above 40. It covers tactics and concepts that help bring the BJ Jgame closer to anyone, regardless of age. While it is tailor-made for older grapplers, it doesn’t mean anyone can benefit from it.
Whittier uses an extremely simple method to solve any grappling situation in BJJ. For that, he likes to rely a lot on basic grappling philosophy and a very clear methodology. The reason his students progress lightning fast through the art isbecau7se they understand how Jiu-Jitsu works, rather than just try to execute as many techniques as possible.
As the owner of Nexus Martial Arts & Fitness in Massachusetts, Stephen is the man behind lots of professional BJJ and MMA fighters, both from a conditioning and tactical perspective. he is also the East Coast regional director for SBG.
Stephen Whittier DVD Review
The “BJJ Accelerator Blueprint” Instructional is a resource containing concepts and methods for optimal skill development. This Stephen Whittier DVD is a unique product. Given that Stephen is an SBG guy, you can see how keen he would be on a conceptual approach. What Whittier has managed to do, though, is put this approach on a digital format that makes a lot of sense.
The instructional contains four volumes, with Stephen going over different subjects in each of them. The second and third volume addresses specific BJJ positions and situations and are as close to a “regular” BJJ DVD as possible. The first volume is the introductory part, where Stephen discusses skill development and some crucial concepts. In the final volume, he goes over his methodology, illustrating how everything works and how to utilize everything he taught in previous volumes.
DVD 1 – Basic Principles
In the opening volume of this Stephen Whittier DVD, we get to learn all about Stephen’s take on grappling. As an older grappler, he really likes to rely on brains rather than brawn. this is the most fundamental of all of his concepts. The rest of his system is all about realizing this one most important goal of his.
After a short intro on skill development, Stephen goes straight into the three pillars of his system., these are the concepts that will help you figure Jiu-Jitsu out. The three components of his skill development system are training volume, quality of training and physicality. Following suit is his master formula again involving three steps. Everything is organized in a simple and easy to remember fashion. Pus, Stephen goes over practical examples during his detailed explanations.
Before the volume concludes, there are a couple of sections addressing posture from the bottom side control position.
DVD 2 – The Art of Escaping
If there’s one thing that grapplers over 40, particularly those with a higher rank are good at, it is escaping. Every time you think you have them, they’ll wiggle out of your tightest attack like it was never there. And Whittier is at the top of that bunch.
Unsurprisingly, the “BJJ Accelerator Blueprint” Stephen Whittier DVD has a lot to say about escapes. The way the second volume is organized is in three chapters. The first addresses the bottom of the mount, the second is all about the back mount and the final one is an open guard masterclass. Each of them runs at nearly half an hour, without any interruptions whatsoever. All of the above components and concepts are now seen in action, as Stephen take us through his methodical Houdini game. After this DVD, you’ll never look at these positions as scary anymore.
DVD 3 – The Closed Guard
The third volume of the DVD instructional is dedicated to the closed guard. It covers all aspects of it, from the bottom game to passing. The portion that focuses on how to act when inside the closed guard is arguably the bet on the subject ever. So far we know Stephen’s methods work by applying general concepts to specific positions. In terms of neutralizing and opening the closed guard, there’s hardly a better approach than Whittier’s master formula of position, principal, and process. The same holds true for passing and sweeping from the closed guard.
The final chapter is about controlling the top of side control, bringing things full circle. Once again, some crazy pressure concept and inescapable pins will give you different options from the top side.
DVD 4 – Discussing Methodology
The final volume of this instructional is actually the most uniquely original one. The theory (and practice) of controlling the cylinder is something that’s painfully simple, yet nobody thought to put it like that before.
The real value is in the explanations and illustrations of the methodology. Here, Stephen goes over every little detail that makes things click. He then does a summary of everything covered so far. He begins with the concepts and goes through every position from the previous DVDs. The illustrations that help put things into perspective are definitely a unique trait of this instructional.
Conclusion
As modern Jiu-Jitsu keeps developing, the conceptual approach is slowly but surely taking over from the technical approach. However, not every coach knows how to explain concepts and principles the way Stephen does. Having an affiliation with SBG certainly helps, as they’re all about concepts in that Academy. However, Whittier’s own way of organizing things with components, formulas, and principles is definitely a new take on BJJ. It is, however, one that will truly accelerate your progress through the sport! An instructional well worth owning.
Being heavy on top is one of the hardest skills you can master in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It really does take lots of effort to nail down body positioning, balance, adjusting on the go and a host of other variables. As such, certain positions are more stable than others. however, the one position that delivers arguably the most uncomfortable pressure, is not famed for its stability. Still, there’s a run around for this issue, as long as you know where to look. The “Knee On Belly Domination” Stephen Whittier BJJ DVD is the best place to start looking for knee on belly answers.
I really love the knee on belly position. Of course, I love it when I’m the one on top. Even drilling moves from it make me cringe when it is my turn to be on the bottom. When moe does get it in a roll or match, its as close to a living nightmare as you can get. Still, there are some valid counters and defenses that might save your life. Well, there were, anyway. There’s a new Stephen Whittier BJJ DVD out there that has all the answers to any counter or defense. It is going to make knee on belly the one position you’ll thrive in, regardless of what opponents are trying to do in response. It is about time you learned some Knee On Belly Domination anyway.
Stephen Whittier BJJ DVD
For me, nearing on 34 and being the definition of “Walking Wounded”, any “lazier” take on BJJ is a goldmine. Not surprisingly, I know about all the guys that dominate the Masters’ scene, along with those that focus on tactics and strategies for older (and banged up) grapplers. Stephen Whittier is one of those guys that really make my grappling life easier. In fact, they make it possible.
Stephen is the man behind 40 plus BJJ. It is not hard to understand that this is a system that helps people in their forties and beyond to train effectively. Of course, techniques have a huge role to play but still, Stephen’s approach is a bit different. As a strength and performance coach, he does not underestimate its value in grappling. He actually put that “old man strength” to great use along with crispy clean techniques. Another reason the 40 plus BJJ system is so good is that Whittier really likes to rely on concepts and principles.
What happens in the Knee On Belly Domination DVD instructional is just that. The 3rd-degree black belt gives his unique take on the position, split into three distinct parts. Make no mistake, this DVD is demanding and will require lots of drilling. The knee on belly position is not one you can master overnight. However, this Stephen Whittier BJJ DVD really takes all guesswork away. In a unique “40 plus BJJ” style Stephen mixes techniques, concepts, and some key balancing tips to really elevate the position to new heights.
Knee On Belly Domination DVD Review
What you can expect from this Stephen Whittier BJJ DVD is a well organized, three-part instructional. It only focuses on the subject it covers, with no unnecessary detours. The organization is also easy to follow as each volume is a subject matter of its own, connected to the knee on belly position. Of course, Whittier is a standout teacher, being both a BJJ black belt and a performance coach.
The first part of this instructional covers the knee on belly, AKA knee ride position. It is one big and detailed introduction to the position, lasting well over an hour. Part two moves on to some more specific strategies, namely transitions and movement combination. It also touches briefly on the subject of the third and final volume – submission attacks from the knee on belly position. Everything is done in accordance with the 40 plus BJJ principles, meaning there’s no need for exertion, explosiveness or unnecessary strength use.
Part 1: Knee Riding
Some people like to address the knee on belly position as the “knee ride”. It is essentially the same thing. However, with Stephen’s approach, it’ll feel a lot more like you’re riding your opponent, given you’re impossible to buckle off.
There are three “knee on belly” variations that Whittier explores. The first one is the “classic” knee ride, the one we’re all used to doing. Then, there is the modern knee on belly, followed by the hybrid knee on belly. you can sense the clear progression patter even from volume one. Whitter spends a lot of time talking about how you control the position itself, and then the person on the bottom. It is a really simple and useful concept to follow whenever you’re in the knee ride.
Before volume on of the Stephen Whittier BJJ DVD ends, he does cover some entries as well. In what is going to be a hallmark of the Knee On Belly Domination instructional, Stephen also announces the subject of the next volume at the very end of this one. in this case, it is a windshield wiper transition that introduces the specific movement part of the instructional.
Part 2: Transitions And Combinations
In terms of transitions, with the classic knee on belly, we all know how to switch side to side. More advanced students are also very well versed in switching sides via a long step. Well, Whittier has a lot more transitions to add, some known and others brand new.
The transitions Whittier covers work in two main directions – towards the head and towards the hips. In the first case, you learn how to move around the opponent’s head most effectively. As far as hip side transitions are concerned, the focus is on taking the back, of course. In both cases, the opponent’s reactions play a huge role in how and where you’re going to move to.
The transitions here work from all three variations of the knee ride. There’s also a great blueprint of how you can put a lot of them together really easily. Some crazy effective drills also make an appearance in this volume. Wrapping up are a few submission options, as well as a system of combining everything together. A very valuable chapter is the one on adopting everything taught so far to No-Gi. Knee on belly domination with every step!
Part 3: Submission Attacks
Finally, the volume that’ll make everything we saw so far make sense. So far, you know how to get to the knee ride, hold it and transition in and out of associated dominant positions. Now it is time to explore some finishing options.
To put things simply, the submission options Stephen offers are armlocks and chokes. In terms of strangling people, he likes to use the X choke, bow and arrow, and triangle. The first one works directly, while the other two will require some of the transitions seen in part 2. Armlocks are centered around the straight armbar, with plenty of variations available. there are both far and near side options, with lots of crucial details, like elbow control.
All in all, the “Knee on Belly Domination” Stephen Whittier BJJ DVD is a very complete and easy to follow guide to mastering the knee ride position.
Final Words
Who is this instructional for then? Just the 40 plus grapplers or others as well. Put simply anyone is going to benefit from this. The way Whittier explains things is just as understandable to beginners as it is to black belts. Age doesn’t really matter that much, with the bonus here being that the moves will work really effectively even with significantly older grapplers. That said, it’s all down to technique and principles, proven to work at the highest level.
Without going tint too much detail, let’s see what happens to the brain when you get strikes to the head. Our brains lie in our heads for a reason – the skull is the most protected space we have. Still, the hardness and structure of it is its’ own downfall, when it comes to TBIs. Namely, while you can’t affect the brain directly with a strike, the so-called contrecoup action does just as much damage. This refers to an injury to the brain on the opposite side of where trauma occurs. this happens simply because the brain rattles against the skull which is a very hard surface. So if you get punched in the face, the back of your brain will get trauma due to hitting the posterior side of your inner skull. You get the picture.
Dr. Samuel J. Stellpflug is one of the people who does not agree with BJJ CTE. According to the emergency medicine practitioner, the evidence is still scarce at best. While there’s obviously a need to further investigate the claims of BJJ CTE symptoms, many wouldn’t rush to agree with Stellpflug on the lack of dangers. He is also known to refute certain claims of MMA striking related CTE in the case of other studies. Since we can’t know who is right, the fact remains that much more research is needed in these crucial areas. With more and more people taking up combat martial arts as careers, this should be a priority.
The one thing I particularly enjoyed is the way Woodmansee approaches sweeps. Namely, he doesn’t just look to end up on top. As per the IBJJF rules, if you just get up from the 50/50 without actually disengaging, you only get an advantage rather than points for sweeping. Well, instead of disengaging, Kristian will teach you how to sweep directly into a pass that leads to side control, or the back.
Wrapping this incredible instructional up is a portion that focuses on defending leg locks from the 50/50. Let’s not forget, Woodmansee’s best titles are in No-Gi, so he is more than aware of any lower body submission dangers. That said, he does cover mostly IBJJF-related leg locks, so you won’t find heel hook defenses inside. However, there are some crazy counters that either lead to the back or in a leg lock of your own. In fact, the one most important principle for winning a footsie battle from the 50/50 is right here in this Kristian Woodmansee BJJ DVD instructional!
In a brief interview with BJJ World, Dr. Collura states, “For those of us who have trained in BJJ for a while we know there is something special about it. The Brotherhood, the camaraderie, the customs and loyalty found within the art and sport are very powerful. It has the potential to change lives and I wanted to dive into the roots of it and see if that hypothesis was true, scientifically. Turns out that it is and it can do incredible things for folks in the veteran community who are going through some very real hardships.”
