Introduction. This study aimed to establish an interaction of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) utilization on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training sessions in order to achieve the best performance results and an effective method to improve body composition in comparison to traditional BJJ training routines. Material and methods. Eighteen BJJ athletes took part in the present study. The experimental design consisted of two different training routines. On the first one, athletes performed traditional BJJ training routines (TT). The second, training sessions were based on HIIT concepts and applicability. The athletic performance was verified through power, muscular endurance, specific speed, specific endurance, and cardiovascular tests. Body composition was evaluated to determine changes in body fat mass and fat-free mass. Results. Comparison between the results obtained from the athletic performance carried out before and after training routines (10 weeks) revealed a statistically significant increase only in HIIT group for abdominal endurance (p<0.001), BJJ specific speed (p=0.04), BJJ specific endurance (p<0.01), and body composition (p<0.01). Both groups presented statistically significant increase in maximal oxygen uptake after the training routines (TT: 38.8±4.7 vs. 42.4±5.6, p=0.002; HIIT: 39.8±11.9 vs. 46.3±7.0, p=0.001) with higher effect sizes in the HIIT group. Conclusions. HIIT training routine was more effective on BJJ athletes` performance. These results can be used to provide information for training prescription in BJJ training routines and help athletes and coaches to achieve better results in less time.
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