This is a question that is sometimes pondered by those practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The truth is, it is a very long and complicated question that probably doesn’t have a definitive answer. Whilst there are several key positions and moves in BJJ – the reality is that there are too many variations within these positions. Because of this, counting these moves is almost impossible when factoring in all of the available information.
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Examples of BJJ moves and their variations
If you look at something fairly common such as an armbar, it can be hit from various positions such as mount, guard and side control. However, it can then be set up and executed from those positions with a number of variations. For example, you could hit the armbar from an overhook setup, or through a Kimura grip. Because of this, the actual amount of armbar variations probably runs into the hundreds – or even thousands if you want to get very specific.
Remember, this is just one submission. Overall there are hundreds of submissions and even more sweeps. With this said, you can see how the intricate details quickly rack up. Not only this, but BJJ often borrows moves from Judo and Wrestling. Again, these arts are detailed enough in their own right. Applying the armbar example to these positions only adds more information into the equation which makes it harder to count the number of moves in BJJ.
Do I need to know everything in BJJ?
Thankfully, the short and long answer to this question is no. Whilst your average black belt is well versed in most positions, trying to learn everything in detail would literally be impossible and too time-consuming. If you look at Roger Gracie for example, he had a set few moves which he was comfortable with and mastered. With Roger, he often chose to pull closed guard or do a foot sweep takedown.
When passing he would apply pressure and get to the mount, usually finishing with a cross collar choke. Alternatively from the closed guard he would sweep to mount or take the back and finish with a lapel choke. This was his game, and although it was predictable, it was also very effective. With this being used as an example; it’s not about how much you know, but more what you know and how to apply it.
Looked at from another angle, if Roger Gracie decided to use moves he was less comfortable with; his BJJ may have suffered as a result. Having said this, your average black belt will have a broad knowledge of every position. Often black belts may not know how to execute a certain move, but will have an understanding of the mechanics. In doing this, they will be able to shut down and defend most moves which are very important.
Having a broad game can be fun
Although learning a set few moves can lead to dominance and is probably the most efficient way to learn – it can get boring. If you don’t have aspirations of competing or becoming a world champion, then venturing into other moves and positions can be a fun way to keep your BJJ fresh. In trying new moves, you can discover new ideas and solve puzzles.
From a hobbyist viewpoint, this can be very rewarding. One of the main problems with people quitting BJJ is that they get bored. However, if you keep trying new moves then it may be a happier route to go down compared to pulling off the same moves again and again. Whilst repetition gets results, it can also become stale after a while. Ultimately, finding the balance is up to the individual and is down to you.
Summary
In summary, trying to count the sheer number of BJJ moves is near impossible. Whilst there are a handful of fundamentally key moves to learn, there are also a huge number of variations within these moves which has been discussed already.
Although this poses an interesting question with numerous answers, the question is ultimately academic without much real meaning when being applied to BJJ. Instead, you should focus on the moves which suit your game and naturally branch out to improve and grow. In doing this, you will eventually get to a good stage of BJJ with enough knowledge to be comfortable with whilst also having explored the joys of finding new moves along the way.
