What is Jiu Jitsu?
Jiu jitsu (also written as jiu-jitsu, ju-jitsu, or BJJ for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) is a martial art and combat sport focused on ground fighting and submission holds. Unlike striking-based martial arts like boxing or karate, jiu jitsu teaches practitioners to control opponents and force them to submit using joint locks and chokeholds.
The name "jiu jitsu" comes from the Japanese words meaning "gentle art" - not because it's easy, but because it emphasizes technique and leverage over brute strength. This makes jiu jitsu effective for people of all sizes, ages, and athletic backgrounds.
Key Takeaway
Jiu jitsu is a grappling-based martial art where you learn to control and submit opponents using technique rather than striking. It's considered one of the most effective martial arts for real-world self-defense.
History & Origins
Jiu jitsu has roots in feudal Japan, where samurai developed grappling techniques for battlefield situations where weapons were lost or impractical. These techniques were refined over centuries into various Japanese martial arts.
In the early 1900s, a Japanese judoka named Mitsuyo Maeda emigrated to Brazil, where he taught judo (derived from traditional jiu jitsu) to the Gracie family. The Gracies, particularly Helio Gracie, adapted these techniques for smaller practitioners, emphasizing leverage and ground fighting. This became Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ).
BJJ gained worldwide recognition in the 1990s when Royce Gracie dominated the early Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) events, defeating much larger opponents using jiu jitsu techniques. This proved the effectiveness of ground fighting and made BJJ a cornerstone of modern mixed martial arts (MMA).
How Jiu Jitsu Works
Jiu jitsu operates on a simple principle: most fights end up on the ground, and the person who controls the ground controls the fight. Training focuses on:
Positional Control
Learning to establish and maintain dominant positions like mount, back control, and side control. From these positions, you can control opponents while remaining safe from their attacks.
Submissions
Techniques that force opponents to "tap out" (surrender) by threatening joint damage or unconsciousness:
- Joint Locks: Armbars, kimuras, americanas, kneebars, and ankle locks that hyperextend joints
- Chokes: Rear naked chokes, guillotines, triangles, and collar chokes that restrict blood flow or air
Escapes & Sweeps
Techniques to escape bad positions and reverse the situation, putting you in the dominant position instead.
Takedowns
Methods to bring standing opponents to the ground where jiu jitsu is most effective.
Benefits of Training Jiu Jitsu
Physical Benefits
- Full-body workout that builds functional strength
- Improved cardiovascular endurance
- Enhanced flexibility and mobility
- Weight loss and body composition improvements
- Better coordination and body awareness
Mental Benefits
- Stress relief and improved mental health
- Problem-solving skills (jiu jitsu is often called "human chess")
- Increased confidence and self-esteem
- Discipline and patience
- Humility and continuous learning mindset
Practical Benefits
- Effective self-defense skills
- Community and friendship with training partners
- Applicable at any age (many start in their 40s, 50s, or beyond)
- No striking means lower injury risk than other combat sports
Gi vs No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
Jiu jitsu is practiced in two main formats:
Gi Jiu Jitsu (Traditional BJJ)
Practiced wearing a gi (also called a gi) - a heavy cotton jacket and pants. The gi allows for additional techniques:
- Collar chokes using the lapel
- Sleeve and pants grips for control
- Slower, more methodical pace
- Traditional belt ranking system
No-Gi Jiu Jitsu (Submission Grappling)
Practiced in athletic wear - typically a rash guard and shorts. Without gi grips:
- Faster-paced, more wrestling-oriented
- Emphasizes body control and underhooks
- More directly applicable to MMA and self-defense
- Popular in competitions like ADCC
At Longhouse Submission Grappling, we specialize in no-gi submission grappling while also offering gi classes. Most instructors recommend training both to become a well-rounded grappler.
The Belt System
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu uses a belt ranking system to indicate skill level. Unlike other martial arts where black belts can be achieved in 2-4 years, BJJ typically takes 10-15 years of consistent training.
White Belt
Beginner. Learning fundamental positions, basic submissions, and survival.
Blue Belt
1-2 years. Solid fundamentals, developing a personal game.
Purple Belt
3-5 years. Advanced practitioner, can teach beginners.
Brown Belt
5-8 years. Expert level, refining techniques for black belt.
Black Belt
10-15 years. Mastery of fundamentals, eligible to promote students.
How to Get Started with Jiu Jitsu
Ready to begin your jiu jitsu journey? Here's how to start:
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1. Find a Reputable Gym
Look for qualified instructors (black belt or experienced purple/brown belt), a welcoming atmosphere, and a schedule that fits your life. Longhouse Submission Grappling in Grand Blanc, MI has three black belt instructors.
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2. Try a Free Class
Most gyms offer free trial classes. This lets you experience the training before committing. Contact us to schedule yours.
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3. Get Basic Gear
For no-gi: athletic shorts (no pockets/zippers) and a fitted t-shirt or rash guard. For gi: a BJJ gi (gyms often have loaners for beginners).
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4. Focus on Fundamentals
Don't worry about fancy techniques. Master the basics: shrimping, bridging, basic positions, and a few fundamental submissions.
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5. Train Consistently
Aim for 2-3 classes per week. Consistency beats intensity - it's better to train twice weekly for years than five times weekly for one month.
Start Your Jiu Jitsu Journey
Longhouse Submission Grappling offers a free trial class for new students. Three black belt instructors, 5,000+ sq ft of mat space, and a welcoming community.
Claim Your Free TrialFrequently Asked Questions
Is jiu jitsu good for self-defense?
Yes. Jiu jitsu is considered one of the most effective martial arts for real-world self-defense. It teaches you to control and neutralize attackers without relying on strikes, and techniques work regardless of size difference. Statistics show most physical altercations end up on the ground, which is where jiu jitsu excels.
Am I too old to start jiu jitsu?
No. People regularly begin training in their 40s, 50s, and even 60s. Jiu jitsu is called "the gentle art" because techniques can be practiced at any intensity level. Many gyms have older practitioners who train for fitness and self-defense rather than competition.
Do I need to be in shape to start?
No. You get in shape BY training jiu jitsu, not before. Beginners are expected to be learning, not already athletic. The training itself will improve your fitness over time.
Is jiu jitsu safe?
Jiu jitsu is one of the safer martial arts because there's no striking, and you can "tap out" at any time to stop a submission. Training with controlled partners and proper technique minimizes injury risk. Minor bumps and bruises are normal, but serious injuries are rare.
What's the difference between jiu jitsu and wrestling?
Wrestling focuses on takedowns and pins - the goal is to take someone down and hold them there. Jiu jitsu includes submissions (joint locks and chokes) that force opponents to surrender. Many jiu jitsu practitioners train wrestling for takedowns, and the sports complement each other well.