Martial arts are constantly evolving, and the art of Jiu-Jitsu taught today is rooted in centuries of development. At New Mexico Jiu-Jitsu Academy, we teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a technique developed over 90 years ago by the Gracie family. In keeping with the principles of the Gracie family, our Jiu-Jitsu classes teach both technique and history – because BJJ is more than a sport; it’s a lifestyle.
What is Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu was originally developed in feudal Japan as a fighting style for close combat. It was designed specifically for unarmed combatants to defeat the armed and armored samurai. Over time, the techniques and principles of Jiu-Jitsu were developed into Judo, which was taught as a lifestyle, sport and fitness program as well as a martial art.
Helio Gracie, the father of modern Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, was a practitioner of Judo. He sought to modify the techniques of Judo in order to make it even more effective for smaller, weaker combatants to gain an advantage against more powerful attackers. His techniques are what we teach today in our Jiu-Jitsu class.
How Does Jiu-Jitsu Give an Advantage?
What differentiates Jiu-Jitsu from other styles of martial arts, like Tae Kwon Do or Karate, is that its focus is not on striking. Instead of punching and kicking your opponent, you win the advantage in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu by taking the opponent to the ground – using the aggressor’s own weight and inertia against them. BJJ techniques incorporate grappling, joint locks, throwing, chokeholds and other close-combat methods to neutralize an opponent and gain the upper hand in a fight.
If you are interested in learning more about the art of Jiu-Jitsu or if you would like to enroll in our academy, contact us today! We offer a no-obligation FREE 10-day trial to help you decide if our program is right for you.
