ABOUT BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU

Brazilian jiu jitsu is a grappling-based martial art whose central theme is the skill of controlling a resisting opponent in ways that force him to submit. Due to the fact that control is generally easier on the ground than in a standing position, much of the technique of Brazilian jiu jitsu is centered round the skill of taking an opponent down to the ground and wrestling for dominant control positions from where the opponent can be rendered harmless. To control and overcome greater size, strength and aggression with lesser size and strength is the keynote of the sport. This is done by utilizing superior leverage, grip and position upon your opponent.

Students of the sport gain a deep understanding of the workings and limits of the human body. This knowledge can be used to subdue and control an opponent with whatever level of severity the student chooses. The path to this knowledge is physically and mentally demanding. Students benefit from greatly increased physical fitness, problem-solving ability, self-knowledge of their body and mind and the many social benefits of working within a large group of like-minded fellow students as you learn and have fun together.

THE HISTORY

In 1914, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu champion Esai Maeda migrated to Brazil, where he was instrumental in establishing a Japanese immigrant community. His efforts were aided by Gastao Gracie, a Brazilian scholar and politician of Scottish descent. As a statement of his gratitude for Gracies assistance, Maeda taught Gastaos oldest son Carlos the essential secrets of his ancient martial arts techniques. Renzo has his own approach to the art that his family has spent many years developing from its original form as brought to them so early on. Today, we offer you the opportunity to be part of the new era of the art known across the world, called Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

MASTER RENZO GRACIE

Renzo Gracie is a world-renown practitioner of Brazilian jiu jitsu and MMA. He is a senior member of the famous Gracie family of jiu jitsu teachers and fighters who did so much to change the shape the current state of martial arts instruction in America. He has assembled a great team of some of the very best instructors from Brazil, many of whom are members of his illustrious family and who teach his system to a very large and ever- growing community and his world famous New York City Academy. Renzo's fame and charisma is the basis of a truly enjoyable place to train, grow and develop your skills among many avid practitioners of the sport, ranging from famous professional fighters to everyday enthusiasts.

CHECK OUT A CLASS IN DC

A variety of classes are held at the DC academy. Instructed by Cesar Cabrera, a Brown Belt under Master Gracie, classes feature a strength and endurance building warm-up, followed by demonstration and practice of techniques after which students engage in live wrestling with other students of their own level. It is a truly demanding workout with a strongly cerebral aspect and a sense of purpose and skill that will truly capture your imagination.

Come down to the academy. Come take a look at a class or better yet, take one of the introduction classes. We are confident that jiu jitsu will become one of the most cherished and enjoyable aspects of your life. It will give you a confidence, knowledge and body-dexterity and fitness that few people will ever know.