BRAZILIAN JIU JITSu (BJJ)

Description
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is an effective self defense system with its main emphasis on ground fighting and submission holds involving joint locks and chokeholds. BJJ was originally intended to teach a smaller average person how to beat a larger, stronger and faster opponent in combat focusing on leverage and technique rather than speed and strength.

History
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is based on Judo and was developed in Brazil by the Gracie family during the mid-20th century. The Gracies constantly tested and adjusted their fighting style by participating in many streetfights in Brazil. BJJ gained mainstream attention back in 1993 when the first Ultimate Fighting Championship was held.

The UFC was originally a one-night tournament that placed 2 men of different martial arts backgrounds inside a cage to fight. There were only 2 rules: no biting and no eye gouging. The event was bareknuckle, offered no time limits and the only way to win was by knockout or submission. Many misconceptions were proven wrong when masters of traditional martial arts were unable to use their striking to finish a fight in seconds. What surprised everyone was that a man named Royce Gracie easily beat opponents twice his size by clinching and bringing them to the ground. He would then control his opponents, gain positional advantage and ultimately force them to submit by using arm bars and chokes.

This opened the eyes of the martial arts world and proved that grappling was one of the most neglected parts of combat and also a highly effective way to finish a fight.

Class Format
Classes begin with a light warmup and some dynamic stretching. Techniques and positions are taught along with some progressive drilling. The classes end with students sparring or "rolling" to test out their skills against a resisting opponent.

Attire
Classes are taught in both gi (traditional kimono and belt) and no-gi (shorts/pants and t-shirt).