What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)?

"The Gentle Art"

Meaning "the gentle art" in Japanese, jiu-jitsu is sometimes referred to as "Gracie Jiu-Jitsu," "Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu," or simply "BJJ." It is a modern grappling-based martial art that originated from medieval Japanese Jujutsu. It employs judo throws and wrestling takedowns to bring an opponent to the ground. Once on the ground, an opponent is neutralized by a joint lock (hyperextension) or strangulation (choke) to force a submission. Ground techniques include various positions, sweeps, reversals, and submissions through leverage. Originally having developed in Brazil as an effective, practical self-defense system, the modern evolution of BJJ now reflects a complex mixture of techniques borrowed from Judo, Sambo, catch wrestling, and freestyle wrestling.