The Rise of Women in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: What’s Changing in 2025

Walk into any Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) gym today, and you’ll notice something that wasn’t as common a decade ago: more women tying their belts, stepping onto the mats, and taking charge of their training. What used to be a male-dominated sport is now seeing a wave of powerful, confident women making their mark—and 2025 is shaping up to be a major turning point in that movement.

The rise of women in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t just a passing trend. It’s a full-on shift in the culture of the sport—one that’s breaking stereotypes, inspiring young girls, and pushing the community toward real equality.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s driving this change and why it matters.

More Women Are Taking the First Step Onto the Mats

For years, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu had a reputation for being a “guy’s sport.” It was often seen as rough, intimidating, and far from welcoming to women. But that’s changing fast. In 2025, more women than ever are signing up for their first class—and loving it.

A big reason for this growth is accessibility. Gyms are becoming more inclusive and offering women’s-only classes, self-defense workshops, and beginner-friendly sessions designed to make everyone feel comfortable. Programs like these have been crucial for building confidence and removing the fear of stepping into what was once considered “male territory.”

If you’re looking for a space that supports all levels, from complete beginners to serious competitors, Piratebjj offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym that focuses on technique, respect, and community. More gyms are starting to follow that example, making training approachable and empowering for women everywhere.

Social Media Is Changing the Game

Another big reason we’re seeing this surge in female participation? Social media.

Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are filled with inspiring female BJJ practitioners sharing their training, competition wins, and honest struggles. These women are showing that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t just about strength—it’s about strategy, intelligence, and resilience.

Influencers like Ffion Davies, Mackenzie Dern, and Gabi Garcia have turned BJJ into something visible and aspirational. Their online presence helps break down old barriers, making it easier for new women to see themselves in the sport.

Even better, more everyday practitioners are sharing their journeys too. A quick scroll through BJJ hashtags reveals women from all walks of life—moms, professionals, students—showing up, training hard, and supporting one another.

The Confidence Factor: Why Women Love BJJ

One of the biggest reasons women are sticking with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t just fitness—it’s empowerment.

BJJ gives women a real, practical sense of confidence. Unlike traditional workouts, it teaches you how to handle yourself in unpredictable situations. Knowing you can protect yourself physically changes the way you carry yourself in everyday life.

Many women describe BJJ as “life-changing.” It teaches patience, problem-solving, and how to stay calm under pressure—skills that go far beyond the mats. You learn to fail, get back up, and keep trying. That mental toughness becomes addictive.

And in a world where safety and confidence matter more than ever, that’s a huge reason so many women are drawn to the sport in 2025.

Coaches and Gyms Are Adapting

A few years ago, it wasn’t uncommon for women to feel isolated in BJJ gyms. They’d walk into a class and be one of the only females there. Thankfully, coaches and gym owners have recognized the need for change.

Today, more gyms are hiring female instructors, offering women-led classes, and promoting female role models in leadership positions. This shift is crucial because representation matters. When women see other women coaching, competing, and leading, it sends a message that they belong here too.

At places like Piratebjj offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym, you’ll find experienced instructors who understand that everyone learns differently. They’re creating an environment where women don’t just participate—they thrive. It’s not about watering down the training. It’s about respect, proper guidance, and building a supportive community where everyone feels safe to grow.

Competitions Are Opening Up

Competitions have also evolved in a big way. Major tournaments are now offering equal divisions, prize money, and visibility for women. That wasn’t always the case.

Female participation in events like the IBJJF World Championships and ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) has skyrocketed. More sponsors are backing female athletes, and big brands are realizing that women in BJJ are just as marketable and talented as their male counterparts.

And these aren’t just token changes—they’re real opportunities. In 2025, we’re seeing more women headlining major matches and drawing large audiences, proving that female BJJ isn’t a “side category” anymore. It’s front and center.

The Shift in Gym Culture

Perhaps the most encouraging change is happening at the community level.

The “tough guy” gym culture that once dominated martial arts is slowly fading. Today’s BJJ community values inclusivity, technical skill, and respect. That means no more tolerance for egos, intimidation, or unsafe training practices.

Many gyms are also implementing clear codes of conduct and harassment policies. These rules not only protect members but also send a message: everyone deserves a safe space to train.

You’ll also see more events, open mats, and seminars specifically for women—places where they can learn, network, and roll with others who share similar goals. This sense of community has been a game-changer for retention and growth.

Women Are Redefining What Strength Looks Like

Women in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu aren’t just participating—they’re redefining the sport itself.

They’re bringing a new perspective to training. While some rely on pure strength, women tend to focus on technique, timing, and leverage—exactly what BJJ was designed for. This technical precision is elevating the entire sport, inspiring both men and women to focus on skill over brute force.

It’s also influencing how the art is taught. Coaches are realizing that teaching “smarter, not harder” benefits everyone, not just women. The result? A more thoughtful, efficient approach to training that makes BJJ better for all practitioners.

The Mental and Emotional Benefits

Beyond physical fitness, women are embracing BJJ for its mental and emotional rewards. Rolling on the mats forces you to stay present, face discomfort, and manage stress. It’s a kind of moving meditation—one that teaches resilience, humility, and self-awareness.

Many women find that training helps with anxiety, self-esteem, and overall mental health. It creates a sense of belonging and community that’s hard to find elsewhere. You show up, work hard, and leave the mat feeling stronger—not just physically, but mentally too.

What’s Next for Women in BJJ?

If 2025 is any indication, the future of women in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu looks bright.

We’ll likely see more female coaches opening their own academies, more women competing on global stages, and more young girls getting into BJJ early. The sport is becoming a place where women can build friendships, learn self-defense, and achieve incredible personal growth.

At its core, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has always been about adaptation—finding ways to overcome challenges no matter your size, strength, or background. And women are proving that every single day.

If you’ve ever thought about trying it out, now’s the time. Find a local academy that values community and respect—places like Piratebjj offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym, where everyone’s welcome to start their journey.

You’ll learn quickly that BJJ isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle that builds strength from the inside out.

Final Thoughts

The rise of women in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu isn’t just changing the numbers on the mats—it’s transforming the entire culture of martial arts. Women are bringing fresh energy, intelligence, and heart to a sport that’s finally giving them the recognition they deserve.