Self-determined motivation in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners: gender, age and competition experience differences

Martial arts (MA) and combat sports (CS) demand significant physical, mental, and emotional engagement in both training and competition. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), known for its intricate mastery requirements, operates within a performance-oriented climate where unmet goals can lead to diminished interest. Investigating the motivational drivers behind continued participation in BJJ is thus pertinent. This study aims to explore motivational factors among BJJ practitioners. A total of 70 participants, including 30 women (43.3%) and 40 men (56.7%) aged 15 to 60+, with training experience ranging from 0-1 year to 10+ years, completed the Sports Motivation Scale (SMS-6). The survey assessed factors influencing their engagement in BJJ. Analysis suggests that gender differences may contribute to variations in amotivation within the sport. Higher competitive experience participants valued factors like interest/enjoyment, competence, and fitness more than social status and appearance, unlike lower competitive experience participants. Notably, individuals with higher competitive experience exhibited lower motivational scores on the assessed subscale factors compared to lower competitive experience participants. The study's findings indicate that individuals with significant competitive experience attribute greater significance and commitment to their involvement in BJJ. Additionally, the results show that women exhibit a slightly lower amotivation score compared to men, suggesting a marginal decrease in mens enthusiasm for practicing the sport.