Many traditions and art forms imported to the New World from around the globe during colonization eventually morphed into new traditions and art forms. Among these are Brazilian martial arts, such as Brazilian jiu jitsu and the fight-dance capoeira, which are now recognized as official sports in Brazil as well as in other countries. Although these sports are in their infancy, you can learn Brazilian martial arts via academies and personal training.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Also known as Gracie jiu jitsu, Brazilian jiu jitsu is a derivative of Japan's Jiu jitsu. The Japanese brought jiu jitsu to Brazil in the early 1900s, but since then, the martial art developed into a new type of sport involving thousands of technical and detailed moves, according to Nolan Osborne of Capital Jiu Jitsu. The Gracie family is credited with developing Brazilian jiu jitsu, and Helio Gracie, who practiced the sport into his 90s, invented the first encyclopedia of Brazilian jiu jitsu moves. Some martial arts experts believe Brazilian jiu jitsu is the most effective martial art ever created, Osborne says. With a mixture of techniques, you must first discover how your opponent moves using instinct, feeling and touch. Each fighting situation is different, so you must feel your way through it. The main goal is to "nail your opponent and bring them down fast," says Osborne. You can take Brazilian jiu jitsu lessons through an academy or get one-on-one training with a personal trainer.
Capoeira
Capoeira is a derivative of African martial arts and was first brought to Brazil by slaves. Forbidden to practice their traditional martial art form by European slave owners, the captives began presenting the fighting art as a dance, as well as mixing it with traditional dances, such as the "dance of the zebras," a warrior's fight-dance. From these first fight-dance exhibitions, capoeira flourished but was not accepted by the establishment in Brazil until the 20th century. In the 21st century, capoeira is a recognized sport with plenty of academies, as well as national and international competitions. The fight-dance is still exhibited as such, and routines are based on choreographed acrobatic fight moves.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Training
The Gracies continue to operate the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy in Brazil. Besides studying at an affiliated dojo in Brazil, you can learn Brazilian jiu jitsu via academies in the U.S. For personal training, inquire with the same organizations, since many of the instructors also offer one-on-one lessons. Or you can contact personal trainers directly. Some personal trainers teach jiu jitsu along with mixed martial arts instruction. You can also get online personal training from the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy.
Capoeira Training
Capoeira academies are scattered throughout the U.S. and usually located in major metropolitan areas, such as the Capoeira Angola Center in New York. Get group training or personal training through most of these organizations. Most personal trainers who teach capoeira are specialized, but check with MMA instructors who may also teach capoeira, or know of someone else who does.
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