The Roots Of Modern Day Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by Mario Cora
Pundits and talking heads on TV and other media often employ the phrase “political” or “verbal jiu jitsu”, but most people rarely think about the source of this expression. That it represents a complicated maneuver for position actually reflects the reality of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. This martial art has made its way into modern society and has a rich international history.
The origins of this martial art go back to 19th century Japan. Judo focused mostly on getting an opponent to the ground and finding a way to submit him via different holds or chokes. A judo master named Mitsuyo Maeda immigrated to Brazil in the early 1900′s, where he introduced the sport to the Gracie family’s young in return for helping him get established upon his arrival.
The sons took to the sport and began teaching it to others in Brazil. From their Rio de Janeiro base, they began to spread the sport countrywide. It was the youngest son, Helio, however, who modified many of the positions into what people know recognize as the modern form of the sport.
The family continued to develop the form over the next few decades. The focus remained on grappling techniques, submissions holds and defensive positions on the ground. Over the years, the Gracies developed unique guard positions and submissions. This came to be known as Gracie Jiu Jitsu and, eventually, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, a term that encompasses the different variations taught across the world.
The 1990′s saw the real coming of age of Jiu Jitsu for a global audience. A Gracie family member, Royce Gracie, shot up through the ranks of the newly-formed UFC (United Fighting Championship). His performances in those early years convinced many fighters of the efficacy of the style. This led an increasing number of professional fighters to seek out training in the sport.
Today, the form is a mainstay of MMA fighters, most notably in the UFC. Many of the top fighters in the world hold black belts in the form or have received a significant amount of Jiu Jitsu training. The Gracies and other families still run training camps from Brazil. Training camps have also sprung up in other countries, from the US to Japan to Thailand.
On the world stage, the rock or rap intros used by fighters might seem alien to the sport, but many of the traditions live on. Many fighters still enter the ring following formalities set down by practitioners almost a century ago. Most also don the Gi, the traditional uniform of Jiu Jitsu fighters, whether they are allowed to wear them in the actual fight or not.
That said, many people find Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to be an acquired taste. The positions are, by nature, complicated and difficult to understand. This is their competitive advantage, to a certain extent. But, instead of just seeing two people grunting and groaning with no perceptible goal, sports lovers should take the time to learn about the sport. Years of evolution and influences from across the globe have brought this sport to where it is today. It is worth getting to know.
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