Abstract

Featured Application: The BJJ-CRFT can be integrated into annual training programs to monitor cardiorespiratory performance throughout the competitive season. Its application provides coaches with a practical tool to adjust training load, plan tapering strategies, and prevent aerobic decline. In addition, the progressive structure of the BJJ-CRFT enables its use as a sport-specific aerobic training modality adaptable to different technical and physical levels. This versatility supports its application for individualized conditioning and evidence-based training management in combat sports. Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is a combat sport that requires intermittent high-intensity actions, strong technical skills, strength, and aerobic capacity. Yet, there is limited evidence of validated sport-specific field protocols. This study aimed to determine the validity, reliability, and sensitivity of the BJJ Cardiorespiratory Fitness Test (BJJ-CRFT). Twenty-three trained practitioners (20 men and 3 women; age 34.4 ± 7.6 years) performed a cardiopulmonary exercise test on a treadmill and completed the BJJ-CRFT on two occasions, one week apart. Construct validity was examined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, while concurrent validity was tested against maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) and maximal aerobic speed (MAS). Intra-session reliability was determined through the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the coefficient of variation (CV%). Main results showed a good discriminative ability (ROC: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.64–0.99, p = 0.001). Total repetitions in the BJJ-CRFT showed a large positive correlation with VO2max (r = 0.66; 95% CI: 0.35–0.85, p = 0.0006) and a very large positive correlation with MAS (r = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.44–0.87, p = 0.0001). Key performance metrics, including guard passes and test duration, demonstrated excellent relative reliability (ICC = 0.99) and good absolute reliability (CV% = 4.4% and 3.6%), being sensitive to small changes. These results confirm that the BJJ-CRFT is a valid, reliable, and sensitive field test for monitoring aerobic adaptations and guiding training prescription in BJJ. © 2025 by the authors.