Software for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: What Athletes and Coaches Really Need

Key Takeaways

• For Athletes: Tools like BJJNotes and BJJBuddy can support training, but nothing replaces time on the mat and focus in class.
• For Coaches and Gym Owners: Managing a BJJ academy demands tools that go beyond scheduling and billing—belt tracking, promotion visibility, and communication are crucial

• MAAT is purpose-built for BJJ and MMA academies, offering all the features that matter and none that don’t.

Intro

In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, athletes and coaches may share the same mat, but their needs couldn’t be more different.

While athletes prioritize training time, technical refinement, and personal progression, coaches and academy owners are responsible for the broader structure that makes those sessions possible.

Whether you're a competitor focused on self-improvement or a coach managing the complex logistics of a growing academy, software tools can make a meaningful difference.

But the kind of software that works best depends entirely on your role.

Let’s break it down.

If You’re a BJJ Athlete

As a student or competitor, you’re focused on improving your game, tracking your progress, and staying consistent with your training.

While using an app can definitely be helpful, the most important element for growth is still mat time and focus during classes.

No software will replace disciplined training and attention to your instructors.

That said, a few digital tools can support your journey.

Here are some BJJ-specific apps that help athletes stay sharp:

• BJJNotes: Great for logging techniques, keeping track of rolls, and noting positional details.
• BJJBuddy: A training tracker with attendance logging, session stats, and journal entries.

These tools help you grow on the mats, but when it comes to running the mats, things change entirely.

If You’re a Coach or Academy Owner

Compared to an athlete, a BJJ coach has entirely different responsibilities.

While students focus on their personal growth, a coach or academy owner must manage the entire environment that enables that growth.

That means handling logistics, payments, class structure, communication, and more.

To avoid dropped balls and ensure a smooth, professional operation, they need the right digital tools.

A generic gym management software can provide essential features such as:

• Class scheduling and bookings
• Automated membership payments
• Basic attendance tracking
• Customer relationship management (CRM)

These features work well in fitness or yoga studios, but for a BJJ academy, they’re not enough.

A Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy needs tools that are tailored to its specific structure.

That includes:

• Belt and stripe progression tracking
• Attendance tracking that supports promotion criteria
• Family account management for kids’ programs
• Communication and engagement tools suited for community-based gyms

That’s where specialized gym management software built for combat sports makes all the difference.

Running a BJJ academy means creating a structure for your students, your staff, and your systems.

That’s where specialized gym management software becomes essential.

Why Generic Gym Software Falls Short

Generic gym management software often tries to be everything to everyone.

These platforms aim to serve both large franchise gyms and small local studios, cover general fitness and niche sports, and function as both gym tools and full-scale CRMs.

They frequently bundle in marketing suites, sales automation, event tools, and more, all in one place.

Before choosing a solution, it’s important to acknowledge that BJJ academies are not like regular gyms and they shouldn’t be managed like one and, while generic tools may sound comprehensive, the reality is that they often miss what really matters for a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy: tools that actually reflect how this gyms operate.

Instead of focusing on progression tracking, class-level structure, or attendance logic tied to belt advancement, they prioritize features that don't add much value to BJJ coaches. This broad focus leads to bloated interfaces, a steep learning curve, and little to no support for what truly drives a martial arts community.

Before choosing a solution, it’s important to acknowledge that BJJ academies are not like regular gyms and they shouldn’t be managed like one.

👉 Take a look at this article to see Why Generic Gym Software Falls Short

Why BJJ Academies Choose MAAT

MAAT is the perfect software for a BJJ academy because it includes all the tools a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu truly needs and none of the features it doesn't.

It strikes the right balance between functionality and simplicity, avoiding the clutter that comes with more generalized platforms.

It includes essential features that any modern gym would expect, such as:

• Automated payments with support for Direct Debit, credit cards, and Apple Pay
• Class and attendance tracking to manage daily operations efficiently

But what sets MAAT apart is its focus on BJJ-specific requirements:

• Belt and stripe tracking designed around real martial arts progression
• Stripe/belt eligibility counter for coaches, showing when students are ready to be promoted based on attendance
• In-app integrated digital waivers that streamline onboarding
• Built for Europe: Supports SEPA direct debit, multiple currencies, and GDPR compliance.
• Gamification Tools: Use leaderboards and tracking to keep students engaged and motivated.
• Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or bloated add-ons. MAAT keeps it simple and cost-effective.

If you're managing a BJJ academy this is the cornerstone of your operations.

See how MAAT can simplify your academy’s operations and help your students grow on and off the mats.

Whether you're upgrading from spreadsheets or switching from a generic system, MAAT is built to support your journey as a BJJ academy owner.

👉 Book a Free Demo Today
‍

‍