Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a martial art, combat sports system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. Brazilian jiu-jitsu was formed from Kodokan Judo ground fighting fundamentals (newaza) that were taught by a number of individuals including Takeo Yano, Mitsuyo Maeda, and Soshihiro Satake. Brazilian jiu-jitsu eventually came to be its own art through the experiments, practices, and adaptation of judo through Carlos and Helio Gracie (who passed their knowledge on to their extended family) as well as other instructors who were students of Maeda, such as Luiz Franca.
BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger, heavier assailant by using proper technique, leverage, and most notably, taking the fight to the ground, and then applying joint-locks and chokeholds to defeat the opponent. BJJ training can be used for sport grappling tournaments. However, it can be used in some self-defense situations and does serve its purpose. Sparring (commonly referred to as rolling) and live drilling play a major role in training, and a premium is placed on performance, especially in competition, in relation to progress and ascension through its ranking system.
Brazilian jiu-jitsu is not solely a martial art, but it is also a sport, a method for promoting physical fitness and building character in young people. Ultimately, a way of life.
“ There is no Losing in Jiu Jitsu. You either Win or you Learn. ”
If it’s your first time, just wear something light and casual such as a t-shirt and shorts. Exercise or “gym” attire is appropriate. You may be provided a temporary “club Gi” until you are able to obtain one of your own. TCJ can help order a gi for you, or you can buy one online. Students MUST have their OWN gi (uniform) within a week of joining.
• Typical attire is a judo or jiu-jitsu gi – either can be worn to class
• Long hair should be braided or tied up
• Fingernails and toenails should be clean and trimmed
• Body & hair should be clean, and your gi should be washed weekly
• No jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, watches/fitness trackers, & body piercings – smooth wedding band ok
No Horseplay or Bullying!
No Shoes on the mat.
Bow when you enter and leave the mat.
Address the Judo instructor as “Sensei”.
Fingernails & Toenails MUST be clean & trimmed.
Wash your Gi weekly.
No Leaving Drinks or Sportsbottles in Fridge
Wash Gi (Uniform) Daily
Clean Hands and Feet (fingernails & toenails trimmed)
Foot Bath if Leaving Mat
Wear Gis to Dojo
No bottles left in fridge or Dojo
Shower before Class
Rashguards recommended under Gi
Masks not required but allowed