50. Choke Me Like a Girl: Celebrating the Women’s Open Mat

On this episode of The Gi Spot, Kaz and Rach get unapologetically real as they celebrate the rise of women’s-only open mats—and the badass community that’s growing inside them.

They unpack what it means for women in BJJ to finally have spaces of their own—where technique can thrive without being overshadowed by brute strength or testosterone-fueled pace. It’s not about exclusion; it’s about expression. This is where women get to test themselves, push their limits, and sharpen their game in an environment built on safety, solidarity, and shared experience.

From grassroots gatherings to full-blown international movements, Kaz and Rach highlight how these open mats are not only elevating the technical level of female grapplers, but creating networks of mentorship, empowerment, and visibility across the sport. They also speak to the importance of these spaces for beginners—women who might otherwise walk out the door after a tough first roll, never realising what jiu-jitsu could give them.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor, a curious white belt, or someone who’s just tired of being the only woman in the room, this episode is a celebration of the movement—and the mat—that women are claiming for themselves.