Martial arts terms can be confusing. Some styles define more than 100 different kinds of kicks, locks or stances. Besides the technique and movement names, the nomenclature of martial arts styles -- such as the difference between Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu -- is not only confusing to outsiders but also a point of pride to practitioners. Understanding these differences means understanding the history of each style.
Jiu-Jitsu History
Jiu-Jitsu developed out of battlefield techniques used by samurai during the feudal period of Japanese history. It involves simple kicks and punches but focuses on using throws and locks to defeat an opponent. It was formalized during the 16th century by Hisamoi Tenenuchi into an organized martial art.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
It might come as a surprise to many Americans that Brazil has the largest Japanese population outside of Japan. This began with an immigration colony that arrived in Brazil in 1914. One of the colonists was a judo and Jiu-Jitsu champion named Esai Maeda. He taught Jiu-Jitsu to Japanese and Brazilians. During the next several decades, the Brazilian tradition of Jiu-Jitsu morphed to emphasize sport, ground fighting and submission holds over the stand-up style of traditional Japanese Jiu-Jitsu.
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
One of Maeda's original students was a young man named Carlos Gracie. Carlos taught his sons, cousins and brothers. His brother, Helio, became a national champion and celebrity. A martial arts legend, he opened a number of Jiu-Jitsu schools in Brazil under the brand name Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. In the early 1990s, the Gracie family hosted the first Ultimate Fighting Championship, which helped boost their style to international fame.
Bottom Line
The difference between Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is like the difference between cola and Coca-Cola. At the simplest level, one is a brand name variation within a broader category. However, the Gracie system has points, emphases and teaching styles that set it apart from other options within the category of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
References
- "Capoeira: The Jogo de Angola, Volume II"; Gerard Taylor; 2008
- Jason Brick; USJA Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, 3rd Degree; Hillsboro, Oregon
- Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy: History of Jiu-Jitsu
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