It was only in the 80s that women began being allowed to participate in BJJ. In 1985, Yvonne Duarte persuaded the Rio de Janeiro BJJ Federation to allow women to compete. This opened the opportunity for women to engage in sports and in 1998, the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation would set the trend with the introduction of the women’s tournament. BJJ gained popularity and many academies started to create programs that would cater to this particular group.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers not only self-defense for women but also a regular form of physical activity. It teaches important life lessons and it is fun to work out with like-minded women on the mat. A male-dominated gym may be uncomfortable for women, thus RYSK BJJ School has a class, especially for women.  It is amazing to note that within the environment of other women, training is more fun and morale is certainly on a boost.  Many women improve their fighting skills in this all-women environment as well.