Notes from the mat
Technique breakdowns, beginner guides and stories from the Carlson Gracie lineage. Written by the instructors who teach our classes.
Am I too old to start BJJ? Starting at 30, 40, 50 or 60
There is no upper age limit for starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Here is what changes at 30, 40, 50 and 60, what the injury research found about age, and how to start safely.
Can martial arts help a child who is being bullied?
A martial art can help with the physical side of bullying and with confidence, but most bullying of Canadian youth is verbal, social or online. What the research shows, and what BC parents should do first.
What is the best martial art for self-defense?
We think the best martial art for self-defence is one you will train against a partner who is genuinely resisting. Here is how the main arts compare, including where BJJ falls short.
How long does it take to get a black belt in BJJ?
By our estimate, an adult takes 8 to 12 years, and more than a decade is typical under Marcus Soares. The IBJJF's standard route sets a floor of four and a half years after white belt and a minimum age of 19, and one of the 37 black belts on our roll took 18 years.
Do self-defense classes work for women? What research shows
A Canadian randomised trial found that a 12-hour resistance program reduced sexual assault among first-year university women. What it tested, what it did not, and what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can and cannot add.
What is a red belt in BJJ, and how long does it take?
The red belt is the highest rank in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Under the IBJJF's graduation system, a 9th degree cannot be requested until 48 years after black belt, or before the age of 67.
Kids BJJ belts explained: grey, yellow, orange and green
Children in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu progress through white, grey, yellow, orange and green belts, each in three versions, then convert to the adult system in the year they turn 16. The full order, age rules and what the stripes mean.
BJJ, karate or taekwondo: which martial art is best for your child?
All three teach discipline and confidence. The real difference is what a child practises against: a resisting partner in BJJ, forms and pads in karate and taekwondo. A side-by-side guide for parents.
BJJ or MMA: which should a beginner start with?
If you want to compete in the cage, join an MMA gym. For almost every other goal, including self-defence, fitness and training well into middle age, start with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Here is why.
Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu safe? What the injury research actually says
BJJ records far fewer competition injuries than MMA, judo or taekwondo, but minor injuries in training are common, and most happen during sparring. What five studies found, and what actually lowers the risk.
Who brought Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Canada?
Marcus Soares, a Carlson Gracie black belt from Rio de Janeiro, arrived in March 1997 and became the first black belt to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Canada. This is how the art took root here.
How long does it take to get a blue belt in BJJ?
For an adult training two to three times a week, a blue belt takes roughly two years. Here is what actually moves that number, and why no honest coach will give you a date.
How many times a week should you train BJJ?
Two to three times a week is where most people improve steadily without getting hurt or burning out. Here is what each frequency actually gets you.
BJJ vs judo vs wrestling: which should you start?
All three are grappling arts and all three work. They differ in where the contest happens, how hard the falls are, and how quickly a beginner can take part safely.
How much does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu cost in Vancouver? A 2026 price guide
Real numbers instead of 'contact us for pricing'. What Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu actually costs across Greater Vancouver in 2026, and the costs most academies leave out until you are standing at the desk.
What age can kids start Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Four is realistic, six is where it usually clicks, and nine is where it becomes theirs. A straight answer for parents, broken down by what children can actually do at each age.
Carlson Gracie and Gracie Barra: what the lineage difference actually means
Two of the best known names in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, from the same family and the same root. Here is where they diverged, what each is known for on the mat, and how to check a lineage claim for yourself.
Marcus Soares featured in the Langley Advance Times
Our Langley academy and Grand Master Marcus Soares were profiled by the Langley Advance Times — a look at authentic jiu-jitsu in the community.
Marcus Soares BJJ Vancouver — featured on CBC
CBC told the story of how Marcus Soares helped bring authentic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to Canada. Watch the feature and read the background.
Why lineage matters in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Lineage is not about ego — it is about the integrity of what you are taught. Here is why training under an authentic line changes your jiu-jitsu.
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