Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a ground-based martial art focusing on grappling and submission techniques. Originating from the early 20th century adaptation of Judo in Brazil, BJJ emphasizes leverage, technique, and positional strategy to control and submit opponents, making it effective for practitioners of all sizes.

Core Principles

• Leverage and Technique Over Strength: BJJ teaches practitioners to use leverage and proper technique to control and submit larger and stronger opponents.

• Position Before Submission: Emphasizes securing a dominant position (e.g., mount, back control) before attempting submission holds.

Techniques and Training

• Ground Fighting: The majority of BJJ techniques are performed on the ground, including positional control, sweeps (reversing positions), and submissions like joint locks and chokes.

• Guard Game: The guard position, where a practitioner is on their back controlling an opponent with their legs, is fundamental in BJJ, with numerous variations (e.g., closed guard, open guard, half-guard) offering offensive and defensive options.

• Submissions: BJJ is renowned for its wide array of submission techniques, targeting joints (armbars, leg locks) and the neck (chokes and strangles).

Sparring (Rolling)

Rolling: Live sparring sessions where practitioners apply techniques in real-time against resisting opponents, which is central to BJJ training, fostering practical experience and problem-solving skills.

Physical and Mental Aspects

• Physical Conditioning: BJJ training improves flexibility, core strength, and cardiovascular fitness, essential for effective grappling.

• Problem-Solving and Adaptability: Practitioners develop a problem-solving mindset, constantly adapting to the dynamic nature of grappling exchanges.

Gi and No-Gi

• Gi Jiu-Jitsu: Practiced wearing a traditional kimono, allowing for grip-based techniques using the clothing.

• No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu: Practiced in athletic wear, focusing more on clinches and body grips, aligning closer with submission grappling styles seen in MMA.

Self-Defense and Sport

• Self-Defense: BJJ's techniques are applicable in self-defense, emphasizing control and non-violent resolutions to physical confrontations.

• Competition: BJJ tournaments offer opportunities for practitioners to test their skills in a structured environment, with matches divided by belt rank, weight, and age categories.

BJJ's fighting style is characterized by its strategic, methodical approach to combat, prioritizing position, control, and submissions, making it a highly respected and effective martial art for both self-defense and competitive sports.