Lifting Weights or Calisthenics for BJJ: Which One Is Better?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a complex martial art that requires a high level of physical fitness. Having the right physique can greatly impact your training and competition performance, giving you an edge over your opponents. 

Building strength, flexibility, and endurance are all crucial components of being a successful BJJ practitioner. When it comes to improving your physique, two popular approaches are lifting weights and doing calisthenics. But which one is superior? lifting weights or calisthenics for BJJ?

Lifting weights has long been associated with building strength and muscle mass, while calisthenics is seen as a more functional and dynamic form of exercise. 

Both approaches have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, and it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your goals. In this article, we’ll be diving into the pros and cons of lifting weights and calisthenics for BJJ, and how each can impact your performance. 

Whether you’re looking to improve your grappling techniques, increase your endurance, or simply get in the best shape of your life, this article will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

Lifting Weights For BJJ

Lifting weights is a common method of building strength and muscle mass, and it can be highly beneficial for BJJ practitioners. By incorporating weightlifting into your training regimen, you can work on improving your overall strength and power, which can help you execute techniques with greater ease and control. 

In this section, we’ll be taking a closer look at the specific benefits of lifting weights for BJJ and how it can improve your performance on the mat.

Benefits Of Using Weights For BJJ 

Using weights as part of a strength and conditioning program can offer several benefits for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) athletes. Some of the key benefits include:

• Increased Strength: Weightlifting is an effective way to build strength, which is important for BJJ athletes who need to be able to control and manipulate their opponent on the mat.
• Improved Muscle Mass: Weightlifting can help to build muscle mass, which can improve an athlete’s overall physical appearance and also make them more durable on the mat.
• Better Endurance: Weightlifting can help to improve an athlete’s overall endurance, allowing them to perform at a high level for longer periods.
• Enhanced Power: Weightlifting can help to improve an athlete’s power, which is the ability to generate force quickly. This is important for BJJ athletes who need to be able to explode into a movement or submission hold.
• Injury Prevention: Weightlifting can help to strengthen the joints, tendons, and ligaments, reducing the risk of injury. This is particularly important for BJJ athletes who engage in a lot of grappling and mat work.

Weightlifting can be an effective way for BJJ athletes to improve their strength, endurance, and overall physical ability. However, it is important to remember that weightlifting is just one aspect of a well-rounded strength and conditioning program and should be combined with other forms of exercise for the best outcome.

Risks And Drawbacks Of Using Weights For BJJ

 While using weights as part of a strength and conditioning program can offer several benefits for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) athletes, there are also some risks and drawbacks to consider. Some of the key risks and drawbacks include the following:

• Risk of injury: Weightlifting can put a lot of stress on the joints, tendons, and ligaments, which can increase the risk of injury if proper technique is not used or if the weights being used are too heavy.
• Decreased mobility: Focusing too much on weightlifting can result in an increase in muscle mass, which can decrease an athlete’s mobility and flexibility, making it more difficult to perform certain BJJ techniques.
• Imbalance: If an athlete only focuses on weightlifting, they may develop an imbalance in their strength and muscle development, which can negatively impact their performance on the mat.
• Time commitment: Weightlifting can be time-consuming, and BJJ athletes may find that they are spending more time in the gym and less time training BJJ techniques and drilling.

Recommended Exercises And Workout Plans

Here are some recommended exercises for weightlifting for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) athletes:

• Squats: Squats are a great exercise for building overall leg strength and power, which is important for BJJ athletes who need to be able to generate explosive movements on the mat.

• Deadlifts: Deadlifts are another great exercise for building leg strength and power, as well as improving the athlete’s overall posture and stability.

• Pull-ups With Weights: Pull-ups are a great exercise for building upper body strength, which is important for BJJ athletes who need to be able to control and manipulate their opponent on the mat.

• Dumbbell Rows: Dumbbell rows are a great exercise for building upper back and shoulder strength, which is important for maintaining good posture and avoiding injury.

• Overhead Presses: Overhead presses are a great exercise for building shoulder and upper body strength, which is important for generating power in throws and submissions.

• Bicep Curls: Bicep curls are a great exercise for building arm strength, which is important for gripping and controlling the opponent on the mat.

In terms of workout plans, a good starting point for BJJ athletes is to focus on full-body exercises that build overall strength and power, such as squats, deadlifts, pull-ups, and overhead presses. Aim to perform 3-4 sets of each exercise, with 8-12 reps per set, and gradually increase the weight as you become stronger.

 However, having a coach, at least for the beginning, to make sure every move you are making is correct is essential. Otherwise, you might make some bad habits for yourself.

Calisthenics For BJJ

Calisthenics is another approach to building a physique that is suitable for BJJ. Unlike weightlifting, calisthenics focuses on using your own body weight to perform exercises that mimic the movements found in BJJ. 

This form of training is often seen as more functional and dynamic, and it can help improve your overall flexibility and endurance. 

In this section, we’ll be exploring the specific benefits of calisthenics for BJJ and how it can help you perform better on the mat. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, incorporating calisthenics into your training routine can help you reach your full potential in the sport.

Benefits Of Using Calisthenics For BJJ

Calisthenics is a form of exercise that uses your body weight as resistance rather than external weights such as dumbbells or barbells. It is a form of strength training that emphasizes functional movements, such as push-ups, squats, lunges, and pull-ups, to improve overall fitness and physical health.

The beauty of calisthenics is that it can be performed anywhere without the need for any special equipment or gym membership. This makes it an accessible and convenient form of exercise for people of all levels and abilities.

Here are some of the key benefits of using calisthenics for BJJ:

• Improved mobility and flexibility: Calisthenics exercises, such as push-ups, squats, and lunges, can help to improve overall mobility and flexibility, which is important for performing BJJ techniques and avoiding injury.
• Improved body control: Calisthenics exercises require a high level of body control and stability, which can help BJJ athletes to improve their balance and coordination on the mat.
• Increased strength and endurance: Calisthenics exercises can be challenging, and they can help to build overall strength and endurance, which is important for performing at a high level in BJJ competitions.
• Convenient and cost-effective: Calisthenics can be performed anywhere and without the need for equipment, making it a convenient and cost-effective form of exercise for BJJ athletes.
• Improved body composition: Calisthenics can help to build lean muscle mass and improve body composition, which is important for overall health and performance.

In conclusion, calisthenics is a great form of exercise for BJJ athletes looking to improve their overall strength, mobility, and body control. Incorporating calisthenics into your training routine can help to complement your BJJ training and lead to improved performance on the mat.

Risks And Drawbacks Of Using Calisthenics For BJJ

While calisthenics can offer many benefits for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) athletes, there are also some risks and drawbacks to consider. Here are some of the key risks and drawbacks of using calisthenics for BJJ:

• Limited resistance: Calisthenics exercises use only body weight as resistance, which can limit the amount of resistance and intensity that can be achieved. This may not be sufficient for athletes who are looking to build significant muscle mass or strength.
• Risk of injury: Calisthenics exercises can be challenging, and they may put athletes at risk of injury if they are performed improperly or with poor form. It is important to seek guidance from a qualified trainer or coach to learn proper techniques and avoid injury.
• Repetition: Calisthenics exercises can become repetitive and monotonous, which may limit the effectiveness of the workout and lead to boredom. It is important to mix up your routine and include a variety of different exercises to prevent boredom and keep the workouts challenging.
• Limited versatility: Calisthenics exercises are limited in their versatility and may not provide the full-body workout that some athletes are looking for. Weightlifting or other forms of resistance training may be needed to provide a more complete workout.

In conclusion, while calisthenics can be a great form of exercise for BJJ athletes, it is important to consider the risks and drawbacks and determine whether it is the right form of exercise for you. A qualified trainer or coach can help you to assess your individual needs and goals and determine the best approach for your training regimen.

Recommended Exercises And Workout Plans

If you are looking to incorporate calisthenics into your BJJ training, here are some recommended exercises and workout plans to consider:

• Air squats: Squats are a great exercise for building lower body strength and improving overall mobility and flexibility. To perform bodyweight squats, simply stand with your feet hip-width apart and slowly lower your body down as if you were sitting back into a chair. Make sure to keep your chest lifted and your knees behind your toes.
• Push-ups: Push-ups are a classic calisthenics exercise that can help to build upper body strength and improve body control. To perform push-ups, start in a plank position with your hands placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Lower your body down to the ground and then push back up to the starting position.
• Pull-ups: Pull-ups are a great exercise for building upper body strength and improving overall body control. To perform pull-ups, find a pull-up bar and grab it with your palms facing away from your body. Pull your body up until your chin is above the bar and then lower back down to the starting position.
• Lunges: Lunges are a great exercise for building lower body strength and improving overall mobility and balance. To perform lunges, stand with your feet hip-width apart and take a large step forward with one foot. Lower your body down towards the ground, keeping your front knee bent and your back knee hovering above the ground.
• Plank: The plank is a great exercise for building core strength and improving overall body control. To perform a plank, start in a push-up position and then lower your body down to the ground, keeping your elbows tucked in close to your sides. Hold this position for 30-60 seconds.

Example Programs and Recommended Rep Ranges And Sets

Here is a sample workout plan using these exercises:

• Warm-up: 5-10 minutes of light cardio to get the blood flowing
• Bodyweight squats: 3 sets of 10-15 reps
• Push-ups: 3 sets of 10-15 reps
• Pull-ups: 3 sets of 5-10 reps (or as many as you can do)
• Lunges: 3 sets of 10-15 reps per leg
• Plank: 3 sets of 60-120 seconds.
• Cool-down: 5-10 minutes of stretching to improve mobility and flexibility

P.S. Preparing for the fight, to push the limits, I was used to doing 5 minutes of plank, 1 minute on Fists, 1 minute on Elbows, changing in every minute.

It is important to listen to your body and adjust the intensity and frequency of your workouts based on your individual needs and goals. A qualified trainer or coach can help you to create a workout plan that is tailored to your specific needs and abilities.

Lifting Weights vs. Calisthenics for BJJ:  A Head-to-Head Comparison Of Each Training Method

Both weightlifting and calisthenics have their unique advantages and disadvantages for BJJ athletes looking to improve their strength and conditioning. While weightlifting can provide a more efficient way to build strength and muscle mass, it can also increase the risk of injury and be intimidating for beginners. 

Calisthenics, on the other hand, can be done anywhere and help to improve overall body control and coordination but can be limited in terms of resistance and difficulty progression. 

Ultimately, the best approach will depend on the individual needs and goals of the BJJ athlete, and it may be necessary to incorporate both weightlifting and calisthenics into a comprehensive strength and conditioning program. 

It is important to consult with a qualified coach or trainer to determine the best approach for your specific needs.

Still, I am using calisthenics workouts more because I am the type of fighter that requires more flexibility and agility to execute the game plan. In addition to that, I truly don’t like to spend lots of time weightlifting.

However, I am mixing weightlifting with calisthenics before every competition to maximize my gains.

Still, I know a fighter whose approach is more focused on strength and power, and he spends lots of time weightlifting. No evidence suggests that one training protocol will make you a superior grappler. 

what are the pros doing?

At the top of the grappling food chain, you find several body types trained in several different training protocols. You have muscle monsters like Andre Galvao or Gordon Ryan. But you can also find killers like Mikey Musumeci on the lighter side. More muscle does not necessarily translates into superior grappling. 

At the end of the day, which one is better, calisthenics or lifting, will depend on the athlete. Pay attention to your natural abilities and preferences. 

One thing is sure, no matter which one you choose, being stronger, more agile, and flexible will be fantastic for your BJJ.

Pressure passing might get easier the stronger you get. Acrobatic guard passes will be effortless if you’re more agile, and a crazy rubber guard game might develop from your enhanced flexibility. 

How To Choose The Best Method For Individual Needs And Goals

Choosing the best method for improving strength and conditioning for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) can be challenging, as both weightlifting and calisthenics have their unique advantages and disadvantages. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best approach for your individual needs and goals:

• Fitness level and abilities: Calisthenics may be a better option if you are a beginner or have limited experience with strength and conditioning. It is more adaptable to different fitness levels and abilities. Weightlifting is a more practical option for building strength and muscle mass if you are more advanced. Most compound lifts that help your BJJ development are challenging to master as a newbie.
• Goals and objectives: Consider what you hope to achieve with your strength and conditioning training. Weightlifting may be more effective if your goal is to build muscle mass. Calisthenics may be a better option if your goal is to improve overall body control and coordination.
• Equipment and space: Consider your access to equipment and space for training. Weightlifting typically requires gym equipment and machines, while calisthenics can be done anywhere without any equipment.
• Time and commitment: Both weightlifting and calisthenics require time and commitment, but weightlifting may be more time-consuming due to the need for gym equipment and machines.
• Previous injuries or health concerns: If you have any previous injuries or health concerns, consider how these may impact your ability to perform certain exercises or movements. Consult with a doctor or physical therapist to determine the best approach for your needs.

Ultimately, the best approach will depend on your individual needs and goals. It may be necessary to experiment with both weightlifting and calisthenics to determine which approach is best for you. It is important to work with a qualified coach or trainer to create a comprehensive strength and conditioning program that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.

In addition to that, after some experience, you will find out what type of BJJ fighter you are, and according to it, you will decide do you prefer to focus on strength and power or flexibility.

Lifting Weights vs. Calisthenics for BJJ: Final Thoughts And Recommendations

In conclusion, both weightlifting and calisthenics can be effective ways for BJJ athletes to improve their strength and conditioning. However, the best approach will depend on individual needs, goals, and circumstances. 

Some factors to consider when choosing between the two methods include fitness level and abilities, goals and objectives, access to equipment and space, time and commitment, and previous injuries or health concerns.

It is recommended that BJJ athletes consult with a qualified coach or trainer to determine the best approach for their specific needs. Additionally, incorporating both weightlifting and calisthenics into a comprehensive strength and conditioning program can help to maximize the benefits and address any limitations of each method.

It is important to remember that strength and conditioning should be approached holistically and not just as a means to an end. Focus on proper form and technique, listen to your body, and take time to recover between workouts. With the right approach and dedication, weightlifting or calisthenics can help BJJ athletes to reach their full potential on the mat.

Lifting Weights or Calisthenics for BJJ FAQs

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