Motivational dynamics and training experiences among female Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners

This study explored achievement goal orientations, perceptions of the motivational climate, and experiences during training among female Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) practitioners. 137 active female practitioners from 26 countries were included. Our findings revealed that female BJJ practitioners shared a similar emphasis on mastery approach goals as their male counterparts. A notable difference was observed for perceptions of the motivational climate, with female practitioners perceiving the climate as more mastery-oriented than males. We also found relationships between motivational dynamics and factors such as rank, training duration and experience, instructor status, and competition participation. Overall, female BJJ practitioners exhibit a strong emphasis on mastery goals and generally perceive the training climate as mastery-orientated, suggesting an inclination towards adaptive behavior in challenging situations. These results reaffirm the compatibility between mastery goals and competitive martial arts practice and provide a novel characterization of the motivational dynamics of active female grapplers.