Why is it called ‘Brazilian’ Jiu Jitsu?
Do you ever wonder why it is called ‘Brazilian’ Jiu Jitsu and not just ‘Jiu Jitsu’? In this article, we will discover that! In the early 20th century, Mitsuyo Maeda, a Japanese judoka, traveled to Brazil and taught the Gracie family the basic principles of what would later become Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. The Gracies went on to develop the techniques and emphasized leverage, positioning, and submissions instead of just strength. They turned Jiu Jitsu into an extremely effective ground fighting system.
The Gracie family gained fame through their dominance in martial arts competitions and fights. Their unique approach to Jiu Jitsu, focusing on ground fighting and grappling, earned them countless victories against opponents of various styles and sizes. This success has demonstrated the effectiveness of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu worldwide and made Brazil synonymous with this dynamic martial art.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has become increasingly popular in recent years. Personally, I, Daniel de Groot, had the opportunity to travel to Brazil in 2015, and since then I have traveled back and forth between Santos, Brazil, and Rotterdam, the Netherlands, to train with my coaches at The House FC, Gabriel Rollo and Thiago Abreu. In 2018, I even managed to win the Brazilian Nogi Championship.
Today, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is practiced and admired by martial artists, self-defense enthusiasts, and athletes around the world. The focus on technique, strategy, and leverage makes it accessible to people of all ages and physical abilities. Whether you want to improve your self-defense skills, experience a challenging workout, or participate in grappling tournaments, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers a rewarding and enriching experience.
In short, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is called “Brazilian” to honor the contributions of the Gracie family and to acknowledge the development of Jiu Jitsu in Brazil. Although its origins trace back to traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu, the innovations and adaptations of the Gracies have transformed it into a unique and highly effective martial art. So, if you are ready for an exciting adventure of self-discovery and physical skills, consider stepping onto the mat of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
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