What is the history of Jiu-Jitsu?

jiu-jitsu is an ancient form of self defence that started in Japan

The Japanese samurai warriors were known as the most proficient warriors in all of Japan and were renowned around the world for their discipline, education and skill.

Samurais used to train with weapons and without, but the moment the Samurai lost his sword in battle, he would need to engage in a grappling fighting situation, as strikes wouldn’t be effective against armors.

This is where techniques based on leverage would be used to put the opponent in a situation where he would need to give up before getting seriously injured - and this is what is now known as jiu-jitsu.

Modern day Recreational Martial Arts

The mastery of these skills gave birth to the modern day recreational martial arts which can be broken down into qualifications and belts.

We celebrate and incorporate the founding codes of Jiu-Jitsu that help young warriors develop.

This encompasses not only the movement and physical elements, but also the spiritual and moral dimensions of jiu-jitsu with a focus on self-improvement, fulfilment and personal growth.

Jiu-Jitsu translates as the ‘gentle art’, it’s a powerful tool that allow us to win battles without hurting our opponents

Jiu-jitsu is also known as ‘human chess’ as it is a non-striking grappling contact sport, where every single move has to be done with strategy. One wrong move can cost the match.

This takes away the blunt force, trauma and head injuries that can occur from most striking martial arts, and allows an athlete to succeed with safety and proficiency.

If Jiu-Jitsu started in Japan, why is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu so popular?

Jiu-Jitsu was praticed in Japan and brought to South America by a Japanese Diplomat Mitsyuo Maeda.

The martial art became recognized for its impact on developing young minds in Brazil to nullify unjustified violence by promoting confidence in a combative environment.

After being refined in Brazil, the techniques became known as the modern day martial art and competitive sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or BJJ.

This popular Martial art is now renowned worldwide. The sport is growing and has increased support from all around the world.

Rafael Miyashiro - Head Coach

“Jiu-Jitsu came into my life by accident, 13 years ago I signed up for a fitness gym that offered boxing classes in the membership. The boxing coach also taught BJJ and invited me to join his class.

It was love at first sight. I became heavily addicted to the art, and Jiu-Jitsu became the number one priority in my life. I have never chased money or success through BJJ, I just aspired to train as often as I could, so the way I figured out to do it was by BJJ becoming my job. 

Why do people become addicted to BJJ? I believe it’s the constant frustration that is involved, which creates the will for constant improvement. It is such a humbling sport where people with big egos don't have a place. The life lessons we learn through martial arts such as discipline, respect, and resilience are the key elements we are building in our community, changing people's attitude towards life in general, in their relationships, work and family. That's how Chess Club makes a contribution to the future of society.”

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Similarities of Chess & BJJ

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What do kids learn at Jiu-jitsu classes?