radio_button_unchecked What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructors

Our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Program

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a complete martial art. Specifically, it focuses on self defence as well as grappling and ground fighting. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s main premise is that a smaller and weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a heavier, bigger and stronger opponent. This is achieved using proper technique and leverage. Subsequently, chokes and joint locks are applied. This makes it the perfect art for men, women and children of all ages.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is best known for its devastating effects on the ground. However, it is a misnomer that BJJ is only a grappling or ground fighting art. On the contrary, there are a significant portion of standing self defence techniques in addition to takedowns and throws.

Kodokan Judo ground fighting techniques (newaza) were introduced to Brazil by Takeo Yano, Soshiro Satake and most famously, Mitsuyo Maeda. Mitsuyo Maeda taught Carlos and Helio Gracie. Eventually, over many decades, the Gracie family and other students refined and adapted Mitsuyo Maeda’s and other Japanese Judo teachers’ techniques.

Like Judo, BJJ is now separated from older systems of Japanese Jujutsu by an important difference: it is a martial art and a sport as well. It is a method for promoting physical fitness and building character in young people. Ultimately, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a way of life.