Question. Do people of all ranks compete in tournaments? I think that would be a great way to learn and get alot of experience. But I don't want to look stupid being such a newbie if everyone at the tournaments are of high rank. There is a local bjj tourney coming up next month that I thought about ATLEAST going to watch but it would be fun to grapple other beginners.
crap long response just got hosed.. ok ill sum it up
most tournaments go by weight and rank. some by weight only
there is really only 1 reason not to compete and that is if your skill level makes safety an issue. if you have the skills necessary to fight safely and protect yourself from you and your opponents i say go for it.
the more fights you canget in against others the better.