Brief History of BJJ and Mats

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) evolved from traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu and Judo, brought to Brazil by Mitsuyo Maeda in the early 20th century. Maeda's teachings were embraced by the Gracie family, who further developed the techniques and established the art of BJJ. Initially, BJJ was practiced on any available surface, often hard floors, which led to the development of specialized mats to enhance safety and performance​.

Types of BJJ Mats

1. Puzzle Mats

Puzzle mats are a popular choice for BJJ practitioners due to their affordability and ease of setup. These mats interlock like puzzle pieces, making them quick to assemble and disassemble. They are lightweight and can be easily transported, making them ideal for temporary training spaces or events. Despite being cost-effective, puzzle mats offer decent protection for ground fighting and grappling​​.

Benefits:

• Affordable
• Easy to set up and transport
• Suitable for temporary training areas

Recommended Product:

• Hatashita Standard Puzzle Mats

2. Tatami Mats

Tatami mats are known for their superior shock absorption and non-slip surface, making them a preferred choice for many dojos and BJJ academies. These mats mimic the traditional tatami texture, which provides excellent grip and reduces the risk of slipping during intense training sessions. Their durability and performance make them ideal for high-traffic training environments.

Benefits:

• Excellent shock absorption
• Non-slip surface
• Durable and long-lasting

Recommended Product:

• Hatashita Tatami Mats

3. Roll Mats

Roll mats offer a convenient and versatile solution for BJJ training. These mats can be easily rolled out and stored, making them perfect for facilities that require frequent setup and teardown. Roll mats provide a smooth surface that is gentle on the skin while offering sufficient padding to protect against impacts and falls.

Benefits:

• Easy to roll out and store
• Smooth, skin-friendly surface
• Adequate padding for safety

Recommended Product:

• Hatashita Roll Mats

Conclusion

Choosing the right mat for BJJ training depends on various factors such as budget, training space, and the frequency of use. Puzzle mats are an excellent choice for those looking for an economical and portable option. Tatami mats are ideal for permanent setups requiring superior grip and durability. Roll mats offer convenience and versatility, making them suitable for various training environments.

Explore our full range of BJJ mats at Hatashita to find the perfect mat for your training needs.