How do I compete in BJJ masters divisions?

Masters divisions acknowledge that athletes over 30 compete differently than those in their early twenties. IBJJF masters categories are: Master 1 ages 30 to 35, Master 2 ages 36 to 40, Master 3 ages 41 to 45, Master 4 ages 46 to 50, Master 5 ages 51 to 55, and Master 6 ages 56 and above. Other organizations have different age breakdowns. The level of competition in masters divisions can be very high because many participants have trained for years. Training for masters competition requires particular attention to recovery, injury prevention, and playing a smart, technique-based game. Physical preparation including strength maintenance, flexibility work, and joint health becomes more important with age. Many masters competitors find that competing keeps them motivated and engaged with their training in a way that pure hobbyist training does not. The masters BJJ community is typically supportive and collegial, with competitors who share the experience of balancing training with careers and families.