How to Master English for Martial Arts: From Karate to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Stepping into a dojo, gym, or training hall in a new country is exciting. But if English isn't your first language, the first few classes can feel overwhelming. The instructor shouts commands. People call out techniques. Everyone seems to move and speak at the same time.

You don't need perfect English to start training. You just need a handful of key words. Once you learn the vocabulary, the physical movements make sense. The language clicks into place.

Here's the practical English you need for martial arts, from striking arts like karate to grappling arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

The Vocabulary That Repeats in Every Gym

Every martial art has its own specific terms, but some words appear everywhere. These are the commands you'll hear at the start and end of every class.

The "Line Up" Commands:

• Line up – Stand in a straight line facing the instructor.
• Bow – Bend forward as a sign of respect.
• Kneel – Drop to your knees (common in traditional classes).
• Sit in seiza – A formal kneeling position, sitting on your heels.

Movement Directions:

• Forward – Move toward the front of the mat.
• Backward – Move toward the back.
• Left / Right – Simple, but crucial when an instructor says "step left."
• Turn around – Change direction fully.
• Face each other – A partner command. Find someone and turn toward them.

Here's a quick comparison of how these commands show up in striking vs. grappling arts.

Striking Arts: What You Need to Know

In karate, taekwondo, Muay Thai, or boxing, the vocabulary is mostly about positions and attacks.

Common English striking terms:

• Stance – How you stand: "Get in your fighting stance."
• Jab – A quick straight punch with your front hand.
• Cross – A powerful straight punch with your back hand.
• Hook – A sideways punch targeting the side of the head or body.
• Roundhouse kick – A kick that comes from the side in a circular motion.
• Front kick – A straight kick forward, driving with the ball of the foot.
• Pad work – Hitting the pads your partner or coach holds.
• Sparring – Free fighting practice with a partner.

A typical class sequence might sound like this:

"Shadowbox for three minutes. Then get a partner for pad work. Left jab, right cross, left hook. Switch roles after one minute. Finish with three rounds of sparring."

Grappling Arts: The Words You Say Every Class

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, judo, and wrestling have a different vocabulary. The focus is on positions, grips, and submissions.

Core terms you'll hear daily:

• Guard – A position where you're on your back with your legs controlling your opponent.
• Mount – A position where you sit on top of your opponent's chest.
• Side control – A dominant position from the side.
• Back control / Back mount – You're behind your opponent.
• Sweep – Reversing positions from bottom to top.
• Pass the guard – Moving from the opponent's guard to side control.
• Arm bar – A straight arm lock submission.
• Triangle choke – A choke using your legs.
• Tap – Tap your partner or the mat to signal you submit. Do this before you get hurt.
• Roll – A sparring session. "Let's roll for five minutes."

The number one rule: If you hear "tap," let go immediately. This is the most important safety phrase.

Real Classroom English: What You'll Actually Hear

Forget textbook English. Here's how instructors actually speak during a real class:

"Alright, everyone line up. Bow to the instructor. Shake hands with your partner. Start drilling arm bars from guard. Go slow. When I say switch, tap out, reset, and change sides."

Or in a BJJ class:

"Find a partner about your size. One person starts in closed guard. Top person, break the guard and try to pass. Bottom person, keep your guard closed and look for a sweep or submission. Three minutes, go."

How to Learn Faster Through Training

Martial arts is actually one of the best ways to learn English through action. You hear a word. You see the movement. You do it yourself. That's three connections going into your brain.

My top tips:

1. Repeat commands quietly – When the instructor says "line up," whisper it to yourself. Match the word to the action.
2. Keep a small notebook – Write down three new words after every class. Show it to your coach. They'll correct your spelling and explain the meaning.
3. Watch match commentary – UFC, ONE Championship, or Olympic judo matches have English commentary. Listen for the techniques you've practiced.
4. Ask questions – When you don't understand, say "Can you repeat that slowly?" or "What does 'pass the guard' mean?" Martial artists love helping new students.

Test Your English for Free

Ready to step onto the mat with confidence? Find out where your English is strong and where you need more practice.

Take the free English Measure test. It covers reading, listening, writing, and speaking. In about 15 minutes, you'll get a clear picture of your level, with practical tips on what to improve next.

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