| Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on grappling and ground fighting. It is a derivative of early 20th century Kodokan Judo, which was itself then a recently developed system (founded in 1882), based on multiple schools (or Ryu) of Japanese JuJutsu.
The overall fighting strategy of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is designed to equip a physically smaller or weaker individual with an effective method of defending against a larger and stronger assailant using leverage and proper technique. This is achieved by applying joint-locks and chokeholds to defeat the assailant.
While applying the various techniques of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, leverage is paramount, as it is the most efficient use of energy. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also has the most developed methods of fighting while on one's back, (a position one might find when attacked). Through constant testing and refinement in the crucible of actual fights and combat situations, the unique style of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has been advanced to the art form practiced today.
A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Student can be trained for self-defense, sport grappling tournaments (gi and no-gi) and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competition. Sparring (commonly referred to as 'rolling') and live drilling play a major role in training, and a premium is placed on performance.
TECHNIQUES
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes taking an opponent to the ground and using ground fighting techniques and submission holds. This involves employing joint-locks and chokeholds against opponents that are also found in numerous other arts. The premise of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is that most of the advantages of the larger, stronger opponent become relatively negated when grappling on the ground.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu permits a wide variety of techniques to fight on the ground after taking a grip. Once the opponent is on the ground, a number of maneuvers (and counter-maneuvers) are available to manipulate the opponent into a suitable position to employ a submission technique. Achieving a dominant position on the ground is one of the hallmarks of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and includes the effective use of guard positions to defend oneself from bottom. Incorporating side control, mount, and back mount positions allows “passing the guard” to the dominant position.
This system of maneuvering and manipulation can be likened to a form of kinetic chess when utilized by two experienced practitioners. A submission hold is the equivalent of checkmate in the sport. However, it is possible for a combat situation to continue even after a proper submission is performed.
What does the future hold for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? That is for everyone practicing and participating in this art form to decide? The better question is…what future does Brazilian Jiu Jitsu hold for you? |
