I know what Brazilian jiu-jitsu is... not from direct experience, as you would imagine, but rather from experiencing it vicariously.
I explain.
My brother is a BJJ (or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) fighter. He's been one since it was not that trendy. And I could see him training for extended periods.
Because of that, I knew some of its moves even though I was not involved with this martial art. More importantly, I got to grasp its significance, and that's what I want to share with you today.
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? The basics.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ for short) is a martial art that emphasizes grappling, ground fighting, and submission holds. That's the Wikipedia definition for it.
BJJ is a martial art that requires a lot of physical and mental strength, discipline, and focus.
It is based on the concept that a smaller, weaker person can defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent through the proper use of leverage and technique.
The art is known for its use of ground-fighting techniques, including chokes and joint locks, to defeat opponents. If you see a BJJ match (what people call "rolar" if done for training purposes), you'll probably see what looks like two fire ants fighting.
What's the goal of a fighter in a BJJ fight?
The main objective of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is to achieve submission over the opponent.
This is accomplished using a repertoire of grappling techniques that include chokes, holds, locks, and pins.
BJJ operates on the belief that by gaining superior positionings — such as mount, side control, or back control — one can more effectively apply these submission techniques.
Every sparring session or competition bout becomes a dynamic and cerebral duel, where both opponents are constantly vying for control, aiming to outmaneuver each other into submission.
So, it's not just bam, bam, take it! You gotta use your brains, too.
And where does Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu come from? It sounds Japanese, though! (or, a bit of the history of Brazilian jiu-jitsu)
It sounds Japanese because BJJ originated in Japan.
The Gracie family (you'll hear a lot about them if you ever take BJJ classes) developed it, being influenced by traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu techniques brought to Brazil by Mitsuyo Maeda, a Japanese Judo master.
The Gracie family adapted and modified these techniques to suit their smaller statures and created a new ground-fighting system that emphasized leverage and technique over brute strength.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu became popular in Brazil through the success of the Gracie family in competitive matches against other martial arts styles.
Benefits of Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Not everybody who trains BJJ wants to join a tournament and be a champion.
Sometimes, all they want is to reap the benefits of being a BJJ practitioner.
If that is your case, then you're in luck.
BJJ training has numerous physical and mental benefits, making it one of the most popular martial arts in the world.
Here are some of the benefits of training in BJJ:
Physical Benefits
1. Strength and Endurance
BJJ training is a great way to build strength and endurance. The sport requires a lot of physical strength to perform the various techniques, and regular training can help build muscle and increase stamina. According to Evolve MMA, this martial art provides a full-body workout that can help improve cardiovascular health, since it’s a kind of aerobic exercise.
2. Flexibility and Agility
Training BJJ can also help improve flexibility and agility. The sport requires a lot of twisting, turning, and stretching, which can help improve overall flexibility. According to Evolve MMA, BJJ movements help develop agility and coordination, which can be helpful in other sports and daily activities.
3. Weight Loss and Body Composition
BJJ training can also help with weight loss and body composition. The sport is a great way to burn calories and build muscle mass, which can help improve body composition. According to BCBJJ.org, regular BJJ training can help reduce body fat and increase lean muscle mass.
Mental Benefits
1. Stress Relief and Relaxation
BJJ training can be a great way to relieve stress and promote relaxation. According to Gracie Barra, this sport requires a lot of focus and concentration, which can help clear the mind and reduce stress. BJJ training can also promote relaxation by providing a physical outlet for stress and tension.
2. Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem
BJJ training can also help improve self-confidence and self-esteem. It requires a lot of discipline and focus, which can help build confidence and self-esteem over time.
3. Mental Toughness and Discipline
BJJ training can also help develop mental toughness and discipline. It requires a lot of dedication and hard work, which can help build mental toughness and discipline. According to Evolve MMA, BJJ teaches students to push through difficult situations and overcome adversity. It's a great training to build some mental muscles needed to lead a happy life.
How do I get started with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
If you are interested in learning BJJ, here are some steps to help you get started:
1. Finding a BJJ Gym or Academy
The first step in learning BJJ is to find a gym or academy that offers classes.
Finding a gym with experienced coaches and a supportive community is important. A good coach will identify your weak spots and suggest courses of action, and a supportive community will help you stick to it when the training sessions get tougher and tougher (and, from what I see my brother doing, they will). Look for a gym offering beginner classes and a structured curriculum to help you progress over time.
2. Choosing the Right Training Program
Once you've found a gym or academy, you'll need to choose the right training program. Some gyms offer classes that are tailored to specific skill levels, while others offer more general classes for students of all levels. And it stands to reason that finding a program that suits your goals and needs plays an important role. After all, you don't want to be steamrolled by more prepared opponents when you're just starting out.
3. Essential Equipment for BJJ
To get started with BJJ, you'll need some basic equipment. The most crucial piece of equipment is a BJJ gi, a special type of uniform designed for grappling and ground fighting. You'll also need a mouthguard, rash guard, athletic tape, and any other protective gear recommended by your gym or academy.
4. Etiquette and Rules of BJJ Training
Within the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community, a profound sense of respect and camaraderie permeates the dojo and extends far beyond its walls.
BJJ practitioners, known as jiujiteiros (zheeoo.zhee.TAY.roos), form tight-knit bonds fostered through shared struggle, mutual trust, and collective growth.
The spirit of support and mentorship in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is palpable, with a culture that makes no distinction between novices and masters when it comes to mutual respect and assistance. Picture a dojo where a seasoned black belt carefully guides a white belt through the intricacies of an armbar technique. The black belt patiently adjusts the newcomer's form, not with an air of condescension but with genuine intent to help them improve.
From what I personally see in my brother's training sessions, no one is seen as superior or inferior - everyone is a valued member, constantly learning and growing. It's an environment where the journey of every individual, regardless of their belt color or experience, is respected and celebrated.
Tips for Training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
BJJ is a challenging sport that requires a lot of dedication and hard work.
Although it is not a sport I like doing personally, I have great admiration for those who do. And from them (one of my Portuguese students is a jiujiteiro in Brazil as well), I got the following tips, which can be helpful for practicing jiu-jitsu and any martial art.
1. Be Consistent with Your Training
Consistency is key in BJJ training (and language learning, for that matter, if you're learning Portuguese). Regular training is essential for progress and improvement in any sport. Make sure to attend classes regularly and practice techniques outside of class to improve your skills.
2. Focus on Technique, Not Strength
One of the critical principles of BJJ is that technique and leverage are more important than strength and size. In fact, you'll see scrawny individuals beat bigger ones by using proper technique. According to Evolve MMA, focusing on technique can help you overcome larger and stronger opponents. Make sure to pay attention to technique and leverage during training, and don't rely on strength alone.
3. Listen to Your Body
BJJ can be a physically demanding sport, and listening to your body is important to avoid injury. It's essential to warm up properly before training and to take breaks if you feel pain or discomfort. Make sure to communicate with your training partners and instructors if you experience any pain or discomfort during training.
4. Set Realistic Goals
Setting realistic goals can help keep you motivated and focused during BJJ training. You don't practice jiu-jitsu ten minutes a day and expect to become one of the Gracies after one week. Make sure to set achievable and realistic goals based on your current skill level and experience.
5. Embrace Failure and Learn from Mistakes
Again, this sport is challenging. It's natural to experience failure and make mistakes during training. However, embracing failure and learning from mistakes can help you improve your skills over time.
BJJ Competitions and Tournaments
BJJ competitions and tournaments allow for students to test their skills and compete against other practitioners. Here are some things to know about BJJ competitions:
1. Types of BJJ Competitions
There are several different types of BJJ competitions, including:
- Gi Competitions: In gi competitions, competitors wear the traditional BJJ uniform, which includes a jacket and pants.
- No-Gi Competitions: In no-gi competitions, competitors wear athletic clothing without the traditional BJJ uniform.
- Submission-Only Competitions: In submission-only competitions, the only way to win is by submission. There is no point system or time limit.
- Points-Based Competitions: Points are awarded for various techniques and positions in points-based competitions, and the competitor with the most points at the end of the match wins.
2. BJJ Competition Rules
BJJ competitions have specific rules and regulations that govern the sport. According to Grapple Arts, some of the common rules in BJJ competitions include:
- No striking or kicking is allowed.
- The match begins with both competitors standing, but takedowns are allowed.
- Points are awarded for various techniques and positions, such as takedowns, sweeps, and submissions.
- Competitors can win by submission, points, or disqualification.
3. BJJ Competition Tips
If you're planning to compete in a BJJ tournament, here are some tips to help you prepare:
- Train Specifically for Competitions: It's important to train specifically for competitions to help prepare for the intensity and pressure of a tournament.
- Focus on Your Strengths: Make sure to focus on your strengths and develop a game plan for each match.
- Stay Calm and Focused: BJJ competitions can be stressful, but staying calm and focused during each match helps greatly.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Make sure to stay hydrated and nourished before and during the tournament to maintain energy and focus.
People involved in the BJJ community you should know
Over the years, a number of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioners have left an indelible mark on the sport through their skill, innovation, and leadership.
One such figure is Grandmaster Helio Gracie, one of the founders of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
He revolutionized the art by developing techniques allowing smaller individuals like himself to overcome larger opponents.
His son, Rickson Gracie, is another renowned figure celebrated for his exceptional skill and undefeated record in MMA.
Another legend is Royce Gracie, who popularized BJJ worldwide by winning the first Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Not to forget Roger Gracie, whose technical precision and mastery have earned him ten World Championship titles.
Female practitioners such as Kyra Gracie and Michelle Nicolini have also made significant contributions, promoting female participation in the sport and showcasing world-class skills and techniques.
Carlos Gracie Jr., for instance, founded the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and Gracie Barra, one of the largest BJJ associations in the world (there is one close to one of my favorite spots in Salvador, in the Cidade Baixa). His efforts have been instrumental in structuring and promoting BJJ competitions globally.
Another interesting story is that of Robert Drysdale, a World Champion who has used his success in competitions to become a prominent BJJ coach and historian with the documentary Closed Guard: The Origins of Jiu-Jitsu in Brazil. Additionally, figures like B.J. Penn and Demian Maia have successfully transitioned from BJJ to mixed martial arts (MMA), bringing further recognition to BJJ through their victories in the UFC.
These stories and more have shaped the history and landscape of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, inspiring countless practitioners worldwide with their dedication, skill, and passion for the sport.
This is just an introduction to Brazilian jiu-jitsu...
And a lacking one, if anything.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is more than just a martial art; it's a community, a philosophy, and for many, a way of life. For some of my Portuguese students, it's even a business!
From its roots in Japan and evolution in Brazil to its rise as a global phenomenon, BJJ is an engaging and rewarding pursuit. Its emphasis on strategy, leverage, and technique levels the playing field, proving that strength isn't always a determinant of victory.
Whether you choose to don the traditional gi or prefer the faster-paced no-gi style, the sport offers myriad ways to engage, learn, and grow.
And let me know your experience with it in the comments!
If you live in the US, look for a local BJJ academy. I'm sure you'll find it very, very quickly.