Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Levels Explained: What to Expect as a Beginner
- Levon Kemkemian
- Dec 17, 2025
- 3 min read
If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: “How do the different BJJ levels work?”
Understanding the belt system and training levels can make starting jiu jitsu far less intimidating, especially if you’re looking for a beginner-friendly BJJ gym in the Sydney CBD.
At Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD, we train students of all levels in a structured, supportive environment designed to help everyone progress safely and confidently.
The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Belt System (Overview)
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uses a belt system to represent a practitioner’s technical knowledge, experience, and understanding of the art.
For adults, the main BJJ belts are:
White Belt
Blue Belt
Purple Belt
Brown Belt
Black Belt
Progression through these belts takes time, consistency, and dedication, but there’s no rush. Everyone progresses at their own pace.
White Belt: Where Everyone Starts
White belt is the beginner level and it’s where every single black belt started.
At this level, you’ll focus on:
Basic positions (guard, mount, side control)
Fundamental movements and escapes
Simple submissions
Learning how to train safely
White belt is about learning, not performing. There’s no expectation to be fit, flexible, or experienced.
Blue Belt: Building Confidence and Consistency
Blue belt represents a solid understanding of the fundamentals.
At this stage, students:
Recognise common positions and transitions
Begin developing their own game
Apply techniques more confidently during sparring
Many people train at blue belt for several years, it’s where a lot of real learning happens.
Purple Belt: Refinement and Strategy
Purple belt is where jiu jitsu becomes more strategic.
At this level:
Techniques become more refined
Students understand timing and control
Many begin assisting or mentoring beginners
Purple belts often play a big role in maintaining a healthy gym culture.
Brown Belt: Precision and Pressure
Brown belt is about fine-tuning and mastery.
Students at this level:
Have deep technical knowledge
Focus on efficiency and pressure
Make very few mistakes
Training becomes less about learning new moves and more about perfecting details.
Black Belt: Mastery and Teaching
Black belt represents long-term dedication and mastery of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Black belts:
Have spent years developing skill and understanding
Often take on leadership and teaching roles
Continue learning, because jiu jitsu never truly ends
Reaching black belt is a journey measured in years, not months.
Do Beginners Train with Higher Belts?
Yes! and it’s one of the best parts of jiu jitsu.
At Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD, beginners regularly train in All Levels classes, where:
Techniques are taught in a way beginners can follow
Sparring is controlled and supervised
Higher belts help beginners learn safely
Training with experienced students accelerates learning and builds confidence.
How Long Does It Take to Progress?
There’s no set timeline.
Progress depends on:
Training consistency
Individual learning style
Life commitments
At Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD, we focus on long-term development, not rushing belts.
A Supportive Gym for All Levels in the Sydney CBD
Located at Level 1, 80 Clarence Street, near Wynyard Station, Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD is:
The Sydney CBD’s largest and only dedicated Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy
The largest martial arts facility in the city centre
We offer:
Beginner-friendly training
Morning, lunch, and evening classes
A welcoming, ego-free environment
Whether you’re brand new or experienced, you’ll find your place on the mats.
Start with a Free Introduction to Jiu Jitsu Class
If you’re new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, the best place to start is our free Introduction to Jiu Jitsu class.
👉 Book your free intro class today and begin your jiu jitsu journey at Garage Jiu Jitsu CBD.
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