Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has grown rapidly in popularity across the globe, with countless practitioners dedicating themselves to mastering the art. While BJJ is rooted in Brazil, Europe has become one of the top destinations for training, hosting some of the world’s leading academies and camps.
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or a beginner, there’s no better place to advance your skills than at one of the many BJJ hotspots in Europe. If you’re planning to travel for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training, pack the right gear for maximum comfort and performance.
What to Bring for BJJ Training Abroad
Traveling for BJJ training requires careful planning, especially when it comes to your gear. When attending a camp, training at an academy, or simply visiting a gym, you’ll want to ensure that your gear is durable, comfortable, and designed to keep you performing at your best. You can get the best gear from a trusted brand like Kingz, which provides top-quality jiu-jitsu gis and more. The last thing you want is to waste time dealing with uncomfortable or poorly fitting clothing.
Essential BJJ Gear for Travel:
- Rash Guards: A high-quality rash guard is crucial for protecting your skin and staying comfortable during intense training sessions. Kingz No Gi rash guards are perfect for athletes who need a combination of durability, breathability, and style.
- Training Shorts: No-Gi BJJ typically requires comfortable shorts that won’t restrict movement. Pack several pairs for long training days.
- Gi and No Gi Gear: Depending on where you’re going, you might need a Gi for some classes and No Gi gear for others. Consider packing both to make sure you’re prepared for all types of training.
- Compression Gear: Lightweight compression gear can help with muscle recovery, making it a smart addition to your packing list.
Top BJJ-Friendly Destinations in Europe
Now that we’ve covered the essentials for your BJJ training trip, let’s explore the best places in Europe to train. If you’re looking to enhance your skills at a top academy or attend an intensive training camp, these destinations are known for their high-quality BJJ programs and welcoming environments for both new and experienced practitioners.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is rapidly becoming one of the top destinations for BJJ training in Europe. The city is home to several world-class academies, including the prestigious Gracie Barra Lisbon and CheckMat Lisbon. Portugal has a rich history in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and many top-level athletes and instructors call this city home.
What makes Lisbon unique:
- World-Class Instructors: Lisbon hosts top-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors, including multiple world champions who have set up academies to teach students of all levels.
- BJJ Camps and Events: Lisbon hosts various BJJ events and camps throughout the year, attracting practitioners from all over the world.
- Beautiful Environment: Outside of training, Lisbon offers a picturesque setting with great food, a vibrant nightlife, and stunning views along the Atlantic coast, making it an ideal place for relaxation and cultural immersion after your training sessions.
2. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, with its incredible architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich culture, also offers top-notch BJJ academies. The city is home to prominent BJJ schools like Ribeiro Jiu-Jitsu Academy and Barcelona Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you’re looking for intense training or simply want to roll with local practitioners, Barcelona is a must-visit destination for any BJJ athlete.
What makes Barcelona unique:
- Vibrant BJJ Scene: Barcelona has a thriving BJJ scene with a mix of traditional academies and modern, innovative training approaches. It’s also known for its welcoming atmosphere for visiting practitioners.
- European BJJ Retreats: Barcelona hosts numerous BJJ retreats that combine training with sightseeing, making it the perfect destination for those who want to train while experiencing a new city.
- Cultural Immersion: Outside the mat, you’ll find a rich history of art, cuisine, and architecture. Barcelona offers a great balance of training and leisure.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful and historic cities, has become an increasingly popular destination for BJJ enthusiasts. Known for its central European location, the city attracts athletes from surrounding countries who travel to train at its top academies, such as Team Hovhannisyan and BJJ Academy Prague.
What makes Prague unique:
- High-Level Competition: With a growing number of international athletes flocking to Prague, the level of competition is high, making it an excellent place for anyone looking to test their skills.
- Affordable Destination: Compared to other major European cities, Prague offers a more affordable stay, making it an attractive choice for those looking to combine training with budget-conscious travel.
- Charming Atmosphere: After a long training session, relax and explore the stunning medieval architecture of Prague, including the iconic Charles Bridge and Old Town Square.
4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is another popular city for BJJ practitioners, with a range of top-tier academies, including CheckMat Amsterdam and Ronin Jiu-Jitsu. The city offers a diverse and inclusive environment for grapplers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned competitors.
What makes Amsterdam unique:
- International Community: Amsterdam has a diverse, international BJJ community, so you’re sure to find training partners from around the world.
- Top-Notch Academies: The city’s academies offer world-class training, with instructors who are well-versed in both traditional and modern BJJ techniques.
Why You Should Train in Europe
Europe offers a unique combination of world-class training facilities, internationally renowned instructors, and the opportunity to experience different styles of BJJ. Training in Europe exposes you to a variety of techniques and philosophies from some of the best instructors in the world.
Additionally, many of Europe’s BJJ academies offer a range of training options, from drop-in classes to intensive camps, making it easier than ever to find the right fit for your training needs.
Traveling to Europe for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training offers an incredible opportunity to advance your skills while experiencing some of the best cities the continent has to offer. Whether you’re in Lisbon, Barcelona, Prague, or Amsterdam, you’ll find world-class academies, diverse communities, and top-tier instructors that will elevate your training experience.
Don’t forget to pack your Kingz No Gi gear. With rash guards and other performance-oriented gear, you’ll stay comfortable and stylish while rolling on the mats. Investing in the right gear keeps your focus on training and improvement, not discomfort or wardrobe issues.
Please Note: I always strive to provide accurate and helpful information, but just a quick heads-up—I’m a blogger, not a doctor, lawyer, CPA, or any other kind of certified professional. I’m here to share my experiences and insights, but please make sure to use your own judgment and consult the right professionals when needed.
Also, I accept monetary compensation through affiliate links, advertising, guest posts, and sponsored partnerships on this site, however I am very particular about the products I endorse and only do so when I am truly a fan of the quality and result of the product.
