The Origins of BJJ

​Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art and self-defence system that has its roots in Japan and has since become one of the most popular forms of grappling in the world. BJJ has its origins in the late 19th century and has been continuously evolving ever since. In this article, we will explore the origins of BJJ and its journey to becoming the sport that it is today.
The origins of BJJ can be traced back to the late 1800s, when a Japanese man named Jigoro Kano developed a new form of jujitsu called Judo. Kano was a jujitsu practitioner who was dissatisfied with the rough and violent nature of traditional jujitsu, so he set out to create a new form of the sport that was more focused on safety, sport, and self-improvement. Judo became very popular in Japan, and it was soon introduced to the rest of the world.
One of Kano's students, Mitsuyo Maeda, was sent to Brazil in 1914 to spread the teachings of Judo. In Brazil, Maeda met a man named Gastão Gracie, who was interested in learning the sport. Gracie became a student of Maeda and eventually opened his own Judo academy in Brazil. Over time, Gracie and his sons modified the techniques of Judo to better suit their own needs, and the sport gradually evolved into the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu that we know today.
BJJ is characterised by its focus on grappling and submission techniques, as opposed to strikes and kicks. The sport emphasises the use of leverage and technique to overcome opponents, making it a great option for smaller or weaker individuals. BJJ also places a strong emphasis on training and competition, and there are many BJJ tournaments held around the world.
One of the key factors that has contributed to the popularity of BJJ is its effectiveness as a self-defence system. BJJ teaches students how to control an opponent and neutralise their attack, making it an ideal option for people who want to protect themselves in dangerous situations. The sport has also been adopted by many military and law enforcement organisations around the world as part of their training programs.
In recent years, BJJ has become increasingly popular in the mainstream media, thanks in part to the success of mixed martial arts (MMA) events such as the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Many of the top fighters in the UFC have a strong background in BJJ, and the sport has become an essential component of modern MMA training.
In conclusion, BJJ is a martial art and self-defence system that has its roots in Japan and has evolved into one of the most popular forms of grappling in the world. The sport has a rich history and has been continuously evolving since its inception, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you're interested in self-defence, competition, or just want to stay active, BJJ is a great option for people of all ages and abilities.