Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that has been gaining in popularity since its introduction to the United States in the late 1980s.
BJJ is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. It is a self-defense system that utilizes leverage and technique to overcome an opponent.
BJJ is often referred to as “the gentle art” because it emphasizes the use of technique and leverage over strength.
It is a sport that requires patience, skill, and strategy to succeed. BJJ practitioners are often referred to as “Jiu-Jitsu practitioners” or “BJJ practitioners” and seldom as jiu-jitsu fighters.
Relative popularity of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu in the US over the last 5 years as per Google trends
The goal of BJJ is to control an opponent on the ground and submit them with a joint lock or choke. BJJ practitioners use a variety of techniques to achieve this goal, including takedowns, guard passes, sweeps, and submissions.
IBJJF is the for-profit organization that organizes World championships for each skill level. But their popularity is on the decline with the rise of the ADCC ruleset.
There are many rulesets but the majority of them award takedowns, guard passes and sweeps in addition to submissions.
‘The Gentle Art’ originated in early 20th century in Brazil. Gracie family played an instrumental role in popularizing the sport. BJJ has since become a global phenomenon, with practitioners from all over the world competing in tournaments organized by different federations and promoters.
Is BJJ a synonym for Gracie Jiu-Jitsu?
BJJ also goes by Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Gracie Jiu-jitsu was in use until a member of the Gracie family attempted to trademark the name in the US in order to prevent others in the family from profiting from it. Rickson Gracie blames this move for popularizing the name Brazilian jiu-jitsu in his autobiography.
At its core, BJJ is a martial art that teaches practitioners how to defend themselves and control an opponent in a safe and effective manner. It is a sport that requires dedication and hard work, but the rewards are worth it.
For many practitioners, BJJ is more than just a sport. For many, it is a way of life. It is a way to stay healthy, build confidence, and develop a like minded community. It is certainly a way to challenge yourself and push your limits.
For these reasons, BJJ has become a popular choice for martial arts practitioners all over the world. BJJ is a great way to learn self-defense, stay in shape, and make friends. With the right instruction and dedication, anyone can become a master of the gentle art.
