Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling martial art using throws, takedowns, joint locks and submissions. Similar to many grappling styles however a key difference is the amount of ground fighting. Students of BJJ learn principles of good timing and leverage to overcome opponents. Good timing in BJJ can help to throw or sweep your opponent to the ground and secure submissions. Therefore leverage is used in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to help apply submissions such as joint locks and to complete sweeps and throws.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Background
Helio and Carlos Gracie are famous for popularising their style of BJJ which they adapted from Judo. As a result BJJ fast grew to mainstream popularity through mixed martial arts tournaments. BJJ quickly demonstrated that who determines where the fight goes stands a higher chance of victory.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is the fastest growing martial art in the world. Consequently academies can be found in every corner of the world.
Students compete in BJJ tournaments every weekend all year in local, national and international tournaments. This has resulted in the huge growth and development of BJJ.
Benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
BJJ offers a fantastic sporting element as well as teaching powerful self-defence techniques. Fundamentally great technique, strategy and leverage can help defeat a larger, stronger opponent. Due to the absence of striking, it is possible to practice live sparring to a high level.
BJJ creates simulated stressful situations. This can help people learn to become comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu creates strong bonds with team mates due to the close proximity of the sport. Many students make lifelong friends across the world due to their participation in BJJ. As a catalyst for cultural ties, BJJ has proven to eliminate borders in developing new relationships.
BJJ is a martial art for everyone. Students start training as young as five years old and similarly there is no upper age limit.
