Jiu-Jitsu is a Japanese word which translates in English to, “Gentle art,” is a well-known martial art that utilizes empty hand techniques such as evasions, holds, locks, throws and chokes to subdue an opponent. The Brazilian form of Jiu-Jitsu is based on the same principles but has evolved into a refined ground fighting art. The original form learned by the Brazilians, was an early version of Judo and was modified by trial and error through challenge matches and street fights for even a smaller weaker person to be able to survive and win a fight. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been known to mold itself to the practitioner allowing all kinds of different abilities to excel. It continues to evolve everyday. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills can be used for sport grappling, MMA, and Self-defense. It has been adopted by law enforcement, military and special forces all over the world because of its effectiveness.
While other martial arts rely heavily on strength and speed, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu relies on superior technique, leverage and strategy. 90% of street fights end up on the ground in one way or another. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on techniques in this range of combat. Students learn how to maneuver efficiently on the ground to finish an altercation or get up and escape safely. Jiu-Jitsu has an emphasis on live training. Sport Jiu-Jitsu’s focus on submissions without the use of strikes while training allows practitioners to practice at full speed and power, similar to a real fight. That’s the reason it’s so effective in real situations.
It takes longer to gain the skill to get promoted in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu versus other belt ranked systems. The ranking system awards a practitioner different colored belts to signify increasing levels of technical knowledge and skill. The belt ranks are as followed; white, blue, purple, brown and black. Each belt taking anywhere from 1 to 3 years of regular training to move up in rank, taking up to 10 years to achieve a black belt. Competition is not required but is a quickened and earned route of promotion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
In these classes you will be learning directly from the only BJJ Black Belt in Charlottesville whom is also an effective teacher and trainer. In addition to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu our academy offers Wrestling, Judo, and No-Gi Submission grappling to enhance grappling skills. We also offer a self-defense course aimed to prepare one for street altercations. Our team competes regularly at tournaments and has produced many local champions as well as a Pan American Champion.
