The Gentle Art
What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
A comprehensive journey through the martial art that transforms lives
Ancient Origins:
The Samurai Legacy
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's roots trace back centuries to feudal Japan, where samurai warriors developed various combat systems known as "jujutsu" (literally "gentle art"). These martial arts emerged from the practical needs of armored warriors in close combat where striking proved less effective.
Traditional Japanese jujutsu comprised dozens of distinct schools (ryu), each with unique techniques and philosophies. These comprehensive fighting systems included striking, throwing, joint manipulation, and ground fighting—essential skills for battlefield survival during constant warfare.
During Japan's peaceful Edo period (1603-1867), many martial traditions faded as their battlefield applications became irrelevant. However, the technical knowledge within these systems would prove foundational to modern grappling arts, eventually influencing what we practice today at Journey Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Madison.
1882 Revolution:
Jigoro Kano's Modern Vision
The transformation of traditional jujutsu into modern martial arts began with Jigoro Kano (1860-1938), a Japanese educator who recognized martial arts' potential for physical education and character development. Kano founded Kodokan Judo in 1882 with revolutionary goals that reshaped martial arts forever.
Kano's Revolutionary Principles:
• Maximum Efficiency (Seiryoku-Zenyo): Using minimal energy for maximum effect, making techniques accessible regardless of physical attributes
• Mutual Welfare and Benefit (Jita-Kyoei): Envisioning martial arts as personal development benefiting both individual and society
• Educational Philosophy: Unlike secretive traditional schools, Kano developed systematic teaching methods including kata, randori, and structured discussions
Kano's system proved effective in 1886 when Kodokan judo practitioners defeated traditional jujutsu schools in 13 of 15 matches during a Tokyo Police tournament. This victory established judo's supremacy and marked the beginning of modern martial arts.
The Global Journey:
Mitsuyo Maeda Reaches Brazil
The transmission of Japanese martial arts to Brazil came through one of Kano's most accomplished students: Mitsuyo Maeda (1878-1941), known as "Conde Koma" (Count Combat). Maeda joined the Kodokan in 1897 and achieved shodan by 1899, becoming part of an elite group sent abroad to demonstrate Kano's art.
The Global Mission: Maeda traveled extensively throughout the early 1900s, competing in challenge matches across Europe and the Americas before settling in Brazil around 1914. These weren't demonstrations—Maeda engaged in over 2,000 professional fights, earning his reputation as one of the "toughest men who ever lived."
What Maeda Actually Taught: Contrary to misconceptions, Maeda taught "Kano Jiu-Jitsu"—not modernized Olympic judo. His curriculum included traditional jujutsu ground fighting, judo throws, catch wrestling from England, and strategies for defeating strikers.
As Helio Gracie clarified, "Maeda was teaching us jiu-jitsu, not judo." This distinction explains how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu maintained its comprehensive grappling focus while judo evolved toward modern sporting emphasis.
1917 Revolution:
The Gracie Family Innovation
In 1917, Carlos Gracie witnessed Maeda's demonstration at the Da Paz Theatre in Belém, Brazil. Inspired, Carlos became Maeda's student and began learning the art that would transform martial arts forever.
Carlos established the first Gracie Academy in Rio de Janeiro in 1925, teaching his brothers Maeda's techniques. Among them was Hélio Gracie, who became the most influential figure in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's development.
Hélio's Revolutionary Adaptations: Weighing only 135 pounds, Hélio found many techniques required strength he lacked. This limitation sparked innovation:
• Leverage-Based Modifications: Techniques relying on leverage, timing, and mechanics rather than strength • Ground Fighting Emphasis: While judo moved toward standing techniques, Gracies developed sophisticated submission systems • Realistic Testing: The "Gracie Challenge"—open invitations for fighters of any style to test against Gracie practitioners
These challenge matches, conducted over decades, served as a laboratory for developing techniques under realistic conditions—the same testing mentality we maintain today in Madison's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community.
1993 Breakthrough:
The UFC Revolution Goes Global
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's transformation from regional Brazilian art to global phenomenon occurred through catalysts that forever changed martial arts.
The UFC Revolution: The 1993 debut of the Ultimate Fighting Championship introduced the world to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through Royce Gracie's dominant performances. Despite being the smallest competitor at 180 pounds, Royce defeated larger opponents from various backgrounds, demonstrating ground fighting and submission effectiveness.
Global Expansion: Following UFC success, Brazilian instructors established academies worldwide, characterized by:
• Standardized Curriculum: Systematic teaching progressions and belt rankings • Cultural Adaptation: BJJ integration into diverse contexts while maintaining core elements • Institutional Adoption: Programs in universities, military, and law enforcement
The art developed in Brazil was spreading worldwide, creating a global community united by shared principles—the same community you can join here in Madison, Wisconsin.
Since 1996:
Organized Competition and Global Standards
The International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), established in 1994, governs competition and maintains global standards crucial to the art's development.
Competition Structure: The IBJJF oversees major tournaments including the World Championships (Mundial), running since 1996 as the sport's premier competition, featuring:
• Standardized Rules: Comprehensive rule sets governing techniques and safety • Divisions: Multiple weight and age categories ensuring fair competition • Belt System: Structured white-to-black progression with clear standards
Technical Evolution: Modern competition drives continuous innovation while preserving core principles—the same dynamic evolution you'll experience training with us.
Global Standardization: The IBJJF framework allows students to train in Madison, Wisconsin and seamlessly continue their journey at academies worldwide, maintaining consistent quality and progression standards.
Begin Your Journey
Start Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu This Week
Join the Madison martial arts community that's been transforming lives through the gentle art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Experience firsthand why this ancient art continues to change lives in the modern world.