Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has become increasingly popular over the years, with more and more people embracing the sport.
It is not just a form of exercise; it is a martial art that teaches its practitioners how to defend themselves and others. BJJ has often been called “The Gentle Art,” and this article explains why.
Contents
Origins of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Before we dive into the reasons why BJJ is called “The Gentle Art,” let’s first explore its origins.
BJJ is rooted in Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, which was introduced to Brazil by Mitsuyo Maeda, a Japanese Olympic Judoka. Maeda taught Carlos Gracie the art of Jiu-Jitsu, and the Gracie family went on to develop their own style of the sport, known as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
BJJ is a ground-based grappling sport that emphasizes technique and leverages over sheer strength. Practitioners learn how to defend themselves in real-life situations, even when facing opponents much larger than them.
The Philosophy Behind BJJ
One of the reasons why BJJ is called “The Gentle Art” is because of the philosophy behind it. The sport’s founder, Helio Gracie, believed that BJJ should be used not just for self-defense but also to promote physical and mental wellness.
The Gracie family placed a strong emphasis on learning BJJ as a tool for personal development, and they believed that the sport could help its practitioners become better individuals.
BJJ is not just about learning how to choke or submit an opponent; it is also about building character.
BJJ teaches its participants discipline, patience, and perseverance. It helps them develop a sense of inner calm and tranquility, which can help reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being.
The Gentle Art of Defense
BJJ is called “The Gentle Art” because it focuses the use of technique and leverage to subdue an opponent, rather than brute strength.
BJJ practitioners are taught to use their opponent’s momentum and body weight against them, and to avoid using excessive force.
By focusing on technique rather than strength, BJJ can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their size or physical ability.
This makes it an ideal sport for both men and women, and it is increasingly being used by law enforcement and military personnel as a form of self-defense.
BJJ is also known for its importance on safety. Unlike other martial arts, BJJ does not include striking techniques, such as kicks or punches.
Instead, it focuses on takedowns and grappling techniques that are designed to control an opponent without causing injury.
The Community Behind BJJ
Another reason why BJJ is called “The Gentle Art” is because of the supportive community that surrounds it.
BJJ practitioners often refer to their fellow students as their “BJJ family,” and many maintain close friendships with their training partners long after they stop practicing the sport.
The BJJ community is known for its inclusiveness and diversity. People from all walks of life, of all ages, and of all backgrounds are welcome to practice the sport. Many BJJ gyms offer classes specifically designed for women, children, and beginners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BJJ is called “The Gentle Art” because of the philosophy behind it, its emphasis on technique over brute strength, its focus on safety, and the supportive community that surrounds it.
It is not just a sport; it is a way of life that promotes physical and mental wellness, personal development, and self-defense.
If you are looking for a new sport or hobby, or if you are interested in learning self-defense, consider trying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
It is a gentle, yet powerful art that can help you become a better individual, both on and off the mat.
