The Challenges Women Face in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the United States

The purpose of this case study was to discover the challenges facing women participating in Brazilian jiu-jitsu in the United States, how they overcame these challenges, and why they continue to participate in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Twenty-three female jiu-jitsu athletes participated in the study...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Rachel Silverman, Anthony Dixon, Harriet Dixon
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Bowling Green State University 2024-11-01
Series:Journal of Athlete Development and Experience
Online Access:https://scholarworks.bgsu.edu/jade/vol6/iss3/3/
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Summary:The purpose of this case study was to discover the challenges facing women participating in Brazilian jiu-jitsu in the United States, how they overcame these challenges, and why they continue to participate in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Twenty-three female jiu-jitsu athletes participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews using open-ended questions were utilized. Analysis of challenges revealed three broader themes of Brazilian jiu-jitsu being male-dominated, gender norms and Brazilian jiu-jitsu being a contact sport. Women discussed how they coped with the challenges and the benefits they gain from participation. To increase the number of women involved in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, participants suggested more women’s-only classes and seminars, creating more awareness about female participation, being supportive of new women, trying multiple gyms to find the right fit, and persevering.
ISSN:2642-9276