Impact of COVID-19 on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training and Practice: A Worldwide Survey

Abstract

PURPOSE Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ), a grappling-based martial art, has faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic primarily due to universal masking and social distancing. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on BJJ academies and owner implementation of risk-mitigation strategies during the early phase of the pandemic. We then explored the association between cultural, demographic, academy-specific variables, and owners’ attitudes to the implementation of risk-mitigation strategies. METHODS After IRB approval, we surveyed BJJ practitioners using a 35-question online survey distributed electronically between June-August 2020. RESULTS 183 (66%) respondents who owned their gym completed the survey. All academies closed (n = 183,100%) and most academy closures were self-imposed (n = 104,57%). Most academies implemented sanitation (n = 169,92%) or exposure non-training-related change (n = 166,91%). There was no association among sociodemographic variables, owners' attitudes regarding the seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic, and implementation of risk-mitigation strategies. CONCLUSIONS To our knowledge, this is the first study examining the short-term effect of COVID-19 on BJJ training and implementation of risk-mitigation strategies. All respondents closed their academies during the pandemic, and most respondents reported changes to their sanitation, exposure, and screening practice. The long-term effects of COVID-19 on the sport remains largely unknown.