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In recent years, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has been gaining increasing attention among martial arts and fitness enthusiasts. Many MMA fighters incorporate it into their training, and world-famous figures such as Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves, Japanese actors Junichi Okada and Hiroshi Tamaki, and even Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg practice it. Thanks to its credibility and success, it is now considered “the most popular martial art of today.” So, what exactly is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into its history, characteristics, training methods, and the benefits it offers for fitness and self-defense.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu traces its roots back to Japanese Judo. In the early 20th century, judoka Mitsuyo Maeda traveled to Brazil and spread his techniques. The famous Gracie family further developed and adapted these techniques, shifting the focus from throws to ground fighting. This allowed smaller practitioners to effectively control and defeat larger opponents. Its effectiveness was proven in the early UFC tournaments, where Royce Gracie demonstrated the power of BJJ by defeating much bigger opponents, showcasing the art to the world.
The main feature of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the use of joint locks and chokes to control opponents. Since it does not rely on striking (punches or kicks), it is also known as a “low-injury martial art.”
When beginners join a gym, they start by learning the basics:
Sparring intensity can be adjusted, making it beginner-friendly and safe for everyone.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is often called “moving strength training” because it uses the entire body. It develops core strength, improves posture and flexibility, and burns a high number of calories—helping you get fit while having fun.
BJJ is not just about physical strength—it’s often called “human chess” because of its high level of strategy. You anticipate your opponent’s moves, combine your techniques, and create traps. This mental challenge makes it addictive and deeply rewarding.
Since BJJ does not involve striking, it has a lower risk of injury compared to boxing or kickboxing. Because the focus is on technique rather than brute force, people of all ages and body types can enjoy it—from kids to seniors.
BJJ techniques allow you to control opponents without causing serious harm, making it an effective form of self-defense—especially for women. Its balance of realism and safety is one reason why it’s respected worldwide.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that:
Even if you think martial arts are intimidating, BJJ is safe and approachable. It’s perfect for fitness, weight loss, and as a new hobby. If you’re looking for something new to start, why not join a trial class?
At FREELETICS GOALS Gym, our experienced instructors provide safe and enjoyable training.
Check it out here:
https://www.freeleticsgoals.com