BJJ is an acronym for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art and combat sport that originated in Brazil. It is primarily focused on ground fighting techniques and submission holds, making it a highly effective form of self-defense. BJJ combines elements of Judo, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, and wrestling, but is primarily known for its emphasis on grappling and ground fighting.
In BJJ, practitioners seek to leverage technique, body positioning, and leverage rather than relying on brute strength. It is characterized by its focus on submissions such as chokes, joint locks, and immobilizations that can neutralize an opponent without resorting to striking. Due to its efficiency and adaptability, BJJ has gained significant popularity and is practiced by individuals of all ages and genders around the world.
Although BJJ was originally developed as a self-defense system, it has evolved into a competitive sport with organized tournaments at various levels. BJJ practitioners are known as "jiu-jiteiros" and are recognized by their distinctive uniform, a gi, which consists of a jacket and pants tied with a colored belt that denotes their rank.
In addition to being a sport, BJJ has been widely utilized in mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions, where its techniques have proven to be highly effective. BJJ practitioners often utilize their skills to overcome opponents who may have different martial arts backgrounds. This has contributed to the growth and popularity of BJJ as both a martial art and a competitive sport.
