Brazilian Jui Jitsu: What you Need to Know

Some say that Jui Jitsu is the best self-defence art and this ground grappling discipline originated in Brazil when Carlos Gracie and his brothers took a concept created by a Japanese immigrant and turned it into the sport we know today. One of the strengths of BJJ is that you can stop an attack without seriously hurting your opponent, which appeals to many people.

Technical grappling

If you thought BJJ was all rough and tumble, think again, as this sport is highly technical; it could be regarded as a chess game when two skilled athletes come together on the mat, each trying to outwit the other. The goal is to get your opponent to the ground and then force a ‘tap out’ or submission; indeed, size is not an indication of who will win in a BJJ contest, often, the smaller person had advantages and will quite likely come out victorious.

The rise of MMA

Mixed Martial Arts has exploded onto the scene in the past couple of decades and BJJ is a major discipline that all MMA fighters need; there are gyms that offer BJJ in Reading if you are interested in learning this unique contact sport. Most MMA fighters started with BJJ to give them a ground game on which to develop other skills. Some boxers cross over into MMA and the first discipline they need to learn is BJJ, as this is entry-level ground game.

Six levels of BJJ

Much like other martial arts, BJJ operates a belt system and there are 6 levels.

1. White belt – A novice with mastery of the basics.
2. Blue belt – A student who is learning more advanced techniques.
3. Purple belt – A student who has developed their own style and has a good understanding of the sport.
4. Brown belt – A student who is well on their way to becoming an expert at the art.
5. Black belt – A black belt is considered to be a master of the discipline.
6. Red & black belt – The wearer is considered to be a grand master of BJJ.

There are also degrees within the coloured belt system to signify the current level of a combatant. Click here to discover how boxing can help with basic fitness.

Suitable for all ages and levels

One of the reasons why BJJ is so popular is it is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness; a middle-aged man can enjoy BJJ equally as a teenager and if it is self-defence skills you are looking to acquire, BJJ is for you. Such is the popularity of BJJ and MMA in the UK, there are gyms in just about every town and city, so you can find one near your home and pay them a visit.

Non-competitive BJJ

Not all participants wish to compete; BJJ can give you a level of fitness and the ability to disarm an opponent, regardless of size. If you would like to learn more about BJJ, search online for a local MMA gym and talk to one of the instructors about joining a class.