
Lifestyle
What's an Open Mat — And Why Every BJJ Practitioner Should Go
Open mat is where most of the actual progress happens. A guide to what it is, why it matters, and how to use it whether you're new or twenty years in.
Jason Park
How BJJ fits into everyday life, travel, and personal growth

Open mat is where most of the actual progress happens. A guide to what it is, why it matters, and how to use it whether you're new or twenty years in.

How jiu-jitsu has shifted in the last decade, where it's headed, and what to expect as a new practitioner walking into the sport today.

Some cities just have better BJJ. Higher gym density, more open mats, deeper talent pools, and a culture that treats grappling as a way of life. These are the best U.S. cities for training.

Loyalty to your home gym is admirable. But training exclusively in one place limits your development. Here's why visiting different academies is one of the best things you can do for your BJJ game.