Bjj

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and combat sport that emphasizes grappling and ground fighting. Practitioners seek to gain a dominant position and apply submissions or controls to defeat an opponent, often through leverage, technique, and timing rather than raw strength.

BJJ originated in Brazil in the early 20th century, drawing on Japanese jiu-jitsu and judo. It was popularized by the Gracie family, notably Carlos and Hélio Gracie, who adapted and refined the art to work for smaller practitioners. The practice spread worldwide through seminars, competition, and the growth of mixed martial arts in the 1990s and beyond.

Techniques center on positional control, guard play, and submissions. Common targets include joint locks such as armbars and isolating chokes such as the rear-naked choke or guillotine. Key positions include the guard, side control, mount, and back control. Training also covers passing an opponent’s guard and defending against submissions, with safety emphasized via tapping.

BJJ is practiced in gi (traditional uniform) and no-gi formats, with belts that indicate experience: white, blue, purple, brown, and black. Progression reflects technical knowledge rather than time alone. Competitions are governed by organizations such as the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and various no-gi circuits; scoring rewards positional control and submissions, while no-gi emphasizes speed and submissions.

Beyond sport, BJJ has had a broad influence on mixed martial arts and fitness culture. It is taught in martial arts schools worldwide and emphasizes discipline, respect, and safety; practitioners must learn to recognize tap-out signals to prevent injury.