Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in Kigali head coach Lorenzo Caldarelli

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) in Kigali –
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting, technique, and strategy rather than pure strength. The main goal in BJJ is to control an opponent and force them to submit using techniques such as joint locks or chokeholds. Because of its technical nature, a smaller or weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a larger opponent

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How Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Works
BJJ primarily focuses on grappling and ground control. Instead of striking with punches or kicks, practitioners aim to control their opponent’s body and apply submissions.
Common techniques include:

Why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Is Growing Worldwide
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has become one of the fastest-growing martial arts in the world because it offers many benefits:
Self-defense skills
Physical fitness and strength
Mental discipline and strategy
Confidence and resilience
With schools like Kigali BJJ introducing the sport in Rwanda, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to expand and inspire a new generation of athletes in East Africa.

Armbar – locking the opponent’s arm to force submission
Triangle choke – using the legs to choke the opponent
Rear naked choke – choking from behind

Guard position – controlling the opponent while lying on the back
Mount position – sitting on the opponent’s torso for control
The match usually ends when one competitor “taps out”, signaling submission

Competition in Arusha – March Event
In March, athletes from Kigali BJJ will compete in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition in Arusha, located in Tanzania.
This event will bring together BJJ practitioners from across East Africa. For Kigali BJJ students, the competition is an opportunity to:
Test their skills against international opponents
Gain valuable competitive experience
Represent Rwanda and promote the growth of BJJ in the region.

Training Locations
The academy operates mainly from branches of Fitnesspoint Gym:
Remera Branch – located near Amahoro Stadium, which is the main training location.
Nyarutarama Branch – near the Kigali Golf Course.