Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that originated from traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu but was refined and popularized in Brazil. It emphasizes techniques that enable a smaller, weaker person to defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent through the efficient use of leverage and technique.
BJJ primarily focuses on ground fighting, where practitioners aim to control their opponent using joint locks and chokeholds. Unlike many other martial arts that prioritize striking techniques, BJJ emphasizes the importance of positional dominance and submission holds to overcome adversaries.
Training in BJJ typically involves a combination of drilling techniques, live sparring (known as “rolling”), and conditioning exercises. It’s often practiced both recreationally and competitively, with tournaments held worldwide at various skill levels and age groups.
The benefits of practicing BJJ extend beyond self-defense and physical fitness. It promotes mental discipline, problem-solving skills, and a sense of camaraderie among practitioners. BJJ is also known for its belt ranking system, which symbolizes a practitioner’s progress and skill level, with the black belt representing the highest level of proficiency and mastery in the art.