Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art, combat sport and a form of self-defense that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. 

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes taking an opponent to the ground and utilizing ground fighting techniques and submission holds involving joint-locks and chokeholds also found in numerous other arts with or without ground fighting emphasis.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu History

Carlos Gracie established the first Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1925. At the time, Carlos and his brothers were teaching Japanese Jiu-Jitsu techniques which were taught to Carlos by Japanese immigrant Esai Maeda. Carlos’ youngest brother Helio, who due to his small size and fragility, was restricted from practicing the techniques and would spend most of his time observing his older brothers teach.

In 1928 the art that we refer to as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) or Gracie Jiu-Jitsu was refined and developed into the art we know today by Carlos’ brother, Helio Gracie. This occurred when Helio, due to his smaller stature and lack of strength, wasn’t able to successfully apply the Japanese Jiu-Jitsu techniques which he had memorized from years of observing his brother’s instruction. At this point Helio sought out ways of making the techniques work by employing leverage, timing, and coordinated body movements instead of relying on athletic ability or strength.

Although Helio proved the art’s effectiveness many times over in several No Holds Barred fights, it wasn’t until the emergence of Royce Gracie in the first UFC that the art was brought into the mainstream. Royce’s ability to subdue and submit all of his opponents was an eye opener for many in the martial arts world. Fast forward to present day and you will find the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an integral part of any well rounded mixed martial artist’s game.