Self Defense (topic): The State of Gracie Jiu Jitsu

The State of Gracie Jiu Jitsu

Originally written: April 5, 2014 at 8:07pm

Several years ago, I wrote an article called "The State of 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu." It basically covered the need to be open minded and accept the evolution of what is going on in the Jiu Jitsu world. I have to give Eddie Bravo credit for popularizing, exploring and, in some cases, inventing, positions and techniques that weren't common place among GJJ and BJJ players. I trained under Eddie for over 5 years and learned a ton under him. What it did was ADD things to my game.

As I age, get better at Jiu Jitsu and listen to my body, my game is changing. Like I recently said, "Jiu Jitsu is a finger print, unique to all who do it. Not one game will be the same as the other. Trying to do so is like smashing a square peg in a round hole."

Its no secret that I am extremely open minded when it comes to learning. Not everyone is like that. That may be for political reasons. It may be for moral ones. It usually is because of internal belief structures that prevent the acceptance of moves. That's fine. Its your game, not mine. Its your journey, not mine. That is why the debate on the internet about what is better (style of Jiu Jitsu or game types) gets the award as the most infantile banter out there. I have no time for it.

I trained with Royler Gracie today and he put it best "I am comfortable on who I am. I know who I am. I have to do what it right for me. I love Jiu Jitsu. Its my journey. I hope I can share to help yours."

So, what is the state of Gracie Jiu Jitsu?

Within this very large and complex family, there are styles, types and some rather large personalities. As is the case with all founders of systems, each student (in this case, Helio and Carlos Gracie's sons), each took something different from their fathers. Depending on age or what they excelled at, each one took something different from the teachings. Of course there are some commonalities we see (and there are lots). But as each of these brothers age, their style evolves in to something....like a finger print.

Some of the Gracie's focus on self defense. Some venture into competition. Some mix. Some are 'old school.' Some are 'new school.' But in the end, we all are drinking from the same well. It just depends how close we are from the source and where along the stream we are gathering.

Gracie Jiu Jitsu, in some cases, will focus on self defense and basics and fundamentals. Others will venture in a different direction. I have had the opportunity to train with many Gracie family members or those people who trained under Helio or Carlos. It is amazing to see what they bring to the table.

Gracie Jiu Jitsu is alive and well because it caters mainly to the regular person. This is huge in martial arts. It doesn't stress that you have to do 'x' move in order to get a belt or achieve something. There is MUCH room for tweaking the move to fit your game. This is what makes it so alluring for people who do it. The sub styles and games of BJJ/GJJ teachers recognize this and do the same. (I plan on writing an article on the State of Japanese Jujutsu as well FYI).

I have pulled SO much great material from so many excellent teachers (insert dozens and dozens of names here). DO you like the gi? Self defense? Competition? Nogi? Fast games? Slow games? Its all there for you. You just have to find the right part of the stream to drink from.

I have had so many life changing things happen to me because of my involvement in Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.  I categorically refute that one style can teach me everything. If we strictly look at one aspect, then you'll miss the big picture. Be humble. Be open. And be willing to learn from these amazing teachers. I know I will.

I look forward to meeting many of you in the future on my journey of Jiu Jitsu.

Keep on rolling!