History of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Learn More About This Incredible Martial Art

Learn about the history of Brazilian jiu-jitsu, then contact the Gustavo Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Sarasota academy to start taking classes.

Carlos Gracie in a Jiu Jitsu match

How Did Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Begin?

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a martial art, combat sport and self-defense system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. The art was derived from the Japanese jiu-jitsu of the early 20th century. It was then adapted by Carlos Gracie who passed his knowledge to his brothers Osvaldo, Gastão Jr., Jorge, George, and Hélio Gracie. Brazilian jiu-jitsu eventually came to be its own style through the experimentations, practices, and adaptation from judo's standing techniques by its founder Kano Jigoro himself as well as those of Mitsuyo Maeda.

The Popularity of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Since the Gracies started creating their martial art, the concept has been passed to generations of fighters in Brazil and across the planet. In fact, Brazilian jiu-jitsu is now one of the most widespread martial arts in Brazil as well as around the world due its effectiveness and practicality for self defense.

Two jiu jitsu fighters on the mat
A man in a jiu jitsu outfit posing

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Foundations

Today there are several different federations that help to guide Brazilian jiu-jitsu, including the International Brazilian jiu-jitsu Federation (IBJJF) and the United States Brazilian jiu-jitsu Federation.

How Students of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Learn and Increase Their Rank

The Brazilian jiu-jitsu belt system is the way in which practitioners are separated by level of knowledge and skill. Beginners start out as white belts, having only the most basic understanding of Brazilian jiu-jitsu fundamentals. As they progress through their training, more colored belts are awarded. The Brazilian jiu-jitsu belt system progresses from white to blue, purple, brown and finally black.

multiple colored jiu jitsu belts

Brazilian jiu-jitsu belts can be earned through a variety of different means, including earning the most amount of points at an IBJJF competition or by having shown your instructor that you have the skills and mindset required to advance.

If you are interested in learning Brazilian jiu-jitsu, contact the Gustavo Machado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Sarasota academy today. Make sure to follow us on social media to see our students as they learn.