Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Origins: Brazil obviously, but it's roots are in Japan. Kodokan Judo master Mitsuo Maeda emigrated from Japan in the early part of the 20th century. Eventually he taught judo to Carlos Gracie, who in turn spread it throughout the rest of his family. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu developed as a modified form of the Japanese style of Judo, with an emphasis on newaza, or ground fighting. It was modified for use by smaller practitioners and honed through numerous street fights and challenges.The Gracies had a famous open door policy, accepting challenges from all who wished a match.

Characteristics: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a ground fighting or grappling art. As opposed to many arts that have only some ground fighting techniques, Brazilian Jujitsu practitioners actually prefer going to the ground as opposed to standing and striking. While some might think it is simply wrestling, the major difference is that wrestlers never want to be on their backs, while BJJ stylists are quite comfortable in that position.

Basic Principles: The foundation techniques/positions in BJJ are known as the mount and the guard. A primary skill to learn is to pass someone's guard. This essentially means to get someone's legs from around you and position yourself on their side (side control) or on top (mount) so you can lock or choke someone at will. This is not a simple task, and is a very valuable skill to learn.

Sub Styles: Most styles are attributed to the Gracie clan, however there are many variations. There is now a Machado style of Brazilian Jujitsu, founded by a cousin of the Gracies. Also, many sons and nephews of the Gracie family have started their own schools and are each teaching their own variations. Overall however, the style as a whole still maintains similar principles and techniques.