What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or BJJ?
Jiu-Jitsu is a famous form of martial art that does not rely on physical strength and power to control one’s opponent, instead relying on knowledge of human anatomy and leverage to catch them in joint-locks, throws, and strangulations. Jiu-Jitsu originated as a form of self-defence and has since evolved to include a sport competition element, applying similar techniques in an arena. The first UFC was won by a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu master, Royce Gracie, who was physically smaller than all his opponents, further demonstrating the art’s effectiveness. BJJ is now a necessary weapon in any competitor’s arsenal, and has been proven effective countless times in real life.
What are the benefits that I may get from Gracie Jiu-Jitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu practitioners learn to be calm under pressure, to be self-confident, and to develop the ability to focus. Incorporating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu into your routine can help you to get in shape, gain confidence, and release stress, all while growing a network of like-minded people sure to motivate and inspire you. Our Gracie Stockholm gym not only excels in this great martial art but offers a safe and friendly atmosphere that many of our students consider their second home.
Do I need to be in shape to start?
Any fitness level is welcome to the classes. We believe that results are a product of hard work and have structured our classes with that belief in mind. You will get support and guidance from our instructors, and over time will develop physical fitness to match the intensity of your class.
Am I too old to train?
We have students of all ages, with different goals in mind. Jiu-Jitsu means the gentle art, and because of this your Jiu-Jitsu journey never ends. Your fitness and skill will develop over time, and age will not stop you from improving.
What’s a typical class like?
We begin class with some light calisthenics and stretching. Following our warm-up we then begin drilling technique. These drills when done over and over help form muscle memory and help our students retain technique. After our drilling is completed then we begin specifics, where the techniques that you drilled throughout class will be tested on resisting opponents, allowing you to grow more comfortable with the techniques, and further engraining them in your muscle memory. More advanced students will finish the class with live sparring. Learning in this fashion will best prepare you in case you might have to defend yourself or someone else in a real-world situation in the future.
Why training with the Gi?
Training in the kimono, or gi, removes many physical advantages and ads more techniques, increasing the number of possibilities. Without wearing a gi, simple factors such as size and strength come more into play and removes a level of sophistication from the game. Anything that can be done without the gi can be done with it. We offer No-Gi classes so that students may experience both aspects of the art.
Will I be expected to compete?
We have many students who compete throughout the year in tournaments around Europe and the world, but competing is NOT a requirement for attending classes at the gym.
Can women do it?
Women are welcome to take part in any of the classes we run.