Saturday 3 November 2012

Different Types Of Jiu-Jitsu

By Rod Bourgoine


There are many different styles of Jiu-Jitsu, and while they do have some notable differences, many of the skills are extremely similar. You might see a gym that offers Gi and No-Gi classes, or perhaps you have seen gyms advertising Gracie Jiu-Jitsu or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

No matter what style you choose to practice, all of the forms originated from the Japanese fighting style of Jujutsu, which translates basically to the art of being flexible. If you have ever taken Jiu-Jitsu classes, you can see that this is an apt definition for a martial art that teaches defensive strategies against larger opponents.

Many mixed martial arts gyms offer Gi classes or perhaps just No-Gi classes, although some more comprehensive gyms will offer both classes. A Gi is the kimono-style, belted uniform that Jiu-Jitsu fighters will wear. A No-Gi class is basically a Jiu-Jitsu class where you do not wear the Gi. In a No-Gi class, one typically wears a t-shirt or a rash guard and a pair of board shorts or MMA shorts.

The differences in uniforms affect the fighting style, as grappling and grabbing onto the sleeves or pants of the uniform can be used to gain an advantage. In No-Gi, this is not allowed, so you have to use different strategies such as getting a solid grip on the wrist, knees, elbows and the neck. Of course, you can also use those strategies in a Gi fight, as well, so in that way, fighting with the Gi can offer a fighter with more opportunities to dominate a fight.

It might seem like No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu training is less effective since you cannot hold onto the uniform. However, No-Gi is more transferable to mixed martial arts in general because you don't wear a Gi during an MMA bout. If possible, it is recommended that you take both types of classes as they focus on different types of skills. The more skills you acquire, the better your overall game plan will be, so there is a definite advantage in being proficient in both styles.

The difference between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is subtle. Some say that the main difference lies in philosophy. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is considered more as a form of self-defense where as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses more on sports and competition. That said, both styles include the same submission, controls and sweeps. So while you might not ever see a GJJ competition, an expert in GJJ has the same skill set as a fighter in BJJ.




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