4 Ways To Tie a BJJ Belt: Step-by-Step Guide

A properly tied BJJ belt is more than just a functional part of your uniform—it’s a symbol of discipline, respect, and progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. For beginners, learning how to tie BJJ belts might seem daunting at first, but with a little practice, it becomes second nature. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, highlight common mistakes, and share practical tips to ensure your belt stays secure during training.

Let’s go deeper and explain how to tie a Gi belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

What is the Purpose of a BJJ Belt?

The BJJ belt, in Gi, serves both symbolic and practical purposes.

On a symbolic level, the belt represents your rank, progress, and dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Each color reflects the milestones you’ve achieved in your journey, making it a source of pride for practitioners.

Practically, the belt helps secure your gi in place, ensuring you’re comfortable and focused during training or sparring. A properly tied belt not only keeps your uniform neat but also demonstrates respect for the art and your training partners.

What Types of BJJ Belt Knots are there?

There are several styles of tying a BJJ belt, with some being more popular than others. The styles differ in complexity and purpose (e.g., aesthetics, durability, or tradition). Here are four main styles commonly allowed and used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Standard Knot (Single Knot)

The Standard Knot (Single Knot) is the foundational method most practitioners learn when starting their BJJ journey. Its straightforward approach makes it ideal for beginners, as it involves tying a simple single knot to secure the belt around the waist. Universally accepted in all academies and competitions, the standard knot is quick to tie and ensures a clean, basic look. However, its simplicity can also be its drawback, as the knot may loosen or come undone during intense sparring sessions, requiring frequent adjustments.

Double Knot (Super Lock)

The Double Knot (Super Lock) builds on the simplicity of the standard knot by adding an extra loop for increased security. This style is particularly favored in competitions or high-intensity training sessions where the belt must stay in place. The additional loop provides a firmer hold, significantly reducing the likelihood of the knot untying during grappling exchanges. While it’s universally accepted and practical, the double knot does take slightly longer to tie, making it less convenient for practitioners in a rush.

Samurai Style (Traditional Overlap)

The Samurai Style (Traditional Overlap) combines functionality with aesthetics, resulting in a neat and professional appearance. This style involves carefully overlapping the belt layers to create a polished look that reflects discipline and attention to detail. It is often encouraged in traditional academies and formal settings, such as belt promotions or ceremonies. While visually impressive, the Samurai Style lacks the tightness needed for rigorous sparring, making it less suitable for intense rolling sessions.

Competition Knot

The Competition Knot is engineered for maximum durability and tightness, making it a favorite among competitors. Its design ensures the belt stays securely tied throughout aggressive rolling and matches, meeting the strict standards of major organizations like the IBJJF. This knot is particularly beneficial for those seeking a no-nonsense, functional style during high-pressure situations. However, the Competition Knot can feel overly rigid or tight for casual training sessions, potentially prioritizing functionality over comfort.

How to Tie a BJJ Belt: Step-by-Step Instructions (Single Knot)

Common Mistakes When Tying a BJJ Belt

Tying a BJJ belt may seem simple, but small mistakes can lead to frustration, an untidy appearance, or even interruptions during training sessions. Here are the most common mistakes practitioners make and how to avoid them:

Uneven Belt Ends

One of the most common errors is ending up with uneven belt tails after tying the knot.This often happens when the initial wrap around the waist is not centered properly. Starting with one side longer than the other will result in uneven ends, which can look untidy and cause distractions during practice. To avoid this, ensure the middle of the belt is placed at your centerline when wrapping it around your waist.

Loose or Sloppy Knots

A loose or improperly tightened knot is likely to come undone during training, especially in high-intensity sparring. This can disrupt the flow of practice or even create safety issues. Sloppy knots often result from rushing through the tying process or failing to tighten each layer as you go. Always take your time to ensure each loop and pull is secure and snug before moving on to the next step.

Incorrect Wrapping Technique

Another common mistake is incorrectly crossing or twisting the belt when wrapping it around the waist. This leads to an uneven or twisted belt, which can feel uncomfortable and may not provide the proper support. To fix this, ensure the belt lies flat against your gi and overlaps smoothly during each wrap.

Overly Tight or Loose Fit

Tying the belt too tightly can make it uncomfortable to move, while a belt tied too loosely will fall off easily during rolls. Striking the right balance is key. The belt should feel secure without restricting your movement. Practice finding this middle ground to avoid frequent adjustments during training.

Not Practicing Enough

While tying a belt might seem mundane, failing to practice the skill can lead to repetitive mistakes. Some practitioners struggle with specific knots simply because they haven’t taken the time to learn and perfect the technique. Set aside a few minutes before or after training to practice tying your belt properly. Over time, this habit will become second nature.

By understanding and addressing these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your belt stays secure, looks tidy, and enhances your overall appearance on the mats. This attention to detail reflects your respect for the art of BJJ and helps you focus on improving your skills rather than worrying about wardrobe malfunctions!

Conclusion

In this article, we explained how to tie Jiu Jitsu belts using 4 types of knots.

As you learnt, tying your BJJ belt properly is a foundational skill that demonstrates respect, discipline, and attention to detail. By mastering this simple yet essential process, you set the tone for your training sessions and ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges on the mat.

Start practicing today, and check out our related guides on BJJ etiquette and gi maintenance to take your game to the next level. Share your experience in the comments, and let us know if you’ve discovered your preferred method for tying your belt!

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