BJJ or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as it is also called is a martial art that grew out of Judo and Jiu-Jitsu. To practice this sport, you need the right equipment. Among other things, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu suit also called a gi and a belt.
Introduction to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
This martial art was developed in Brazil at the beginning of the 20th century by Carlos Gracie and his brothers. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is often considered one of the most effective self-defense systems in the world.
Having been developed in the early 20th century by Japanese immigrant Mitsuyo Maeda, BJJ is often credited as one of the most effective martial arts, as it emphasizes technical knowledge and grappling styles that can be used to control or submit an opponent without necessarily causing serious injury.
BJJ is widely practiced as a sport and competitions are held both locally and internationally. The sport aspect of BJJ focuses on passing an opponent's guard, achieving a more dominant position, and then applying a submission hold (such as a clock choke or joint lock).
It can almost be seen as 'human chess' as it requires tremendous control over the body and mind.
Martial artists are awarded points for various positions and techniques and the goal is to either score enough points to win the match outright, or to force the opponent to submit.
Whether you are interested in BJJ to learn self-defense, competition, or simply as a way to train and improve yourself, there are many benefits to practicing this martial art.
The History of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
The history of BJJ can be traced back to the samurai in feudal Japan.
It is said that when the samurai were defeated in battle, they were often forced to commit seppuku (ritual suicide). To avoid this fate, some of the samurai began training in the art of Jiu Jitsu.
Jiu Jitsu eventually made its way to Brazil, where it was adapted and modified by a man named Carlos Gracie. Gracie's nephew, Helio Gracie, is often credited with developing BJJ into the form we know today.
The Gracie brothers abandoned the Kodokan rules for Kodokan judo after BJJ was introduced to Brazil.
It is one of the most popular martial arts in the world and has been used by some of the biggest names in combat sports, such as UFC champions Georges St-Pierre and Anderson Silva.
The Basics of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
BJJ is a martial art that focuses on grappling and fighting on the ground.
The techniques of BJJ are designed to allow a smaller, weaker person to defend against a larger, stronger opponent.
The key is to use leverage and proper technique to take the fight to the ground, where the smaller person can then use submissions (joint locks and chokes) to force the bigger person to tap out (give up).
BJJ is often used as a base for MMA (mixed martial arts) disciplines, as it provides a strong foundation in grappling.
It is also an increasingly popular sport in its own right, with tournaments held all over the world.
The different styles of BJJ
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as it is also called is a martial art that focuses on fighting and fighting on the ground.
Also called "the gentle art", it is often considered one of the most effective styles of self-defense due to the fact that a smaller person can use leverage against a much larger opponent.
There are different schools and styles of BJJ, but all share the same basic principles and techniques.
Some of the more popular styles of BJJ include:
1. Gracie Jiu Jitsu
This is the style that was developed by the Renzo Gracie Academy in Brazil. It is considered one of the most effective and well-rounded styles in BJJ.
2. Nova Uniao
This style was developed by a group of Brazilian black belts who wanted to create a more well-rounded style of BJJ.
3. 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu
This style was created by American black belt Eddie Bravo. It focuses on no-gi grappling and has become very popular in recent years.