Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an advanced form of the Japanese Jujitsu. It is predominantly a ground-fighting art. The fighter's objective is to avoid punches and kicks while attempting to clinch his opponent. Once in the clinch, the opponent's strikes are rendered ineffective. The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighter will then proceed to take the fight to the ground where his opponent's strikes will not have any power behind them. Taken out of his game, the striker is helpless, without the ability to use his stand-up skills. With the fact that 95% of all fights go to the ground, an experienced and well trained Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Fighter will eventually take any type of fighter to the ground.

The defense techniques are all based on leverage, making it possible for the fighter to beat stronger and heavier opponents. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu uses the opponents strength and force against themselves. The key is balance (known as "base") and leverage.

The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was created in the early 1900's by Helio Gracie, who had a standing challenge that was open to practitioners of all styles, regardless of size, weight or musculature. This tradition of open challenge has been continued by the Gracie family and their students for over 70 years. Nowadays, Rickson Gracie is widely accepted as the greatest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu technician and the best fighter in the world, with a career record of over 400 victories and no losses.