GRACIE JIU-JITSU PHILOSOPHY

The application of Traditional Gracie Jiu-Jitsu transcends the practice of chokes, joint locks, immobilizations, throws, and strikes. A true Gracie philosophy prepares men, women, and children for life, showing them paths to a healthier life and the most effective use of physical, mental and spiritual strength.

Eating well is Jiu-Jitsu, taking care of your body is Jiu-Jitsu, saying no to cigarettes, alcohol and drugs is Jiu-Jitsu, as well as keeping a close bond with relatives and friends.
This philosophy, which can be called a "way of life", has been propagated by Grand Masters Carlos and Helio Gracie for almost a century..

Maximum Efficiency with Minimum Energy

Jiu-Jitsu is the way to the most effective use of physical, mental and spiritual strength. By teaching you attacks and defenses it refines your body, your mind and your soul and helps you make the spiritual essence of jiu-jitsu a part of your very being. In this way you are able to perfect yourself and contribute something of value to the world.
The principle of maximum efficient-use of mind and body is the fundamental principle governing all the techniques of Jiu-Jitsu. This principal can also be applied to the improvement of the human body making it strong, healthy and useful, and so constitute physical education. It can also be applied to the improvement of intellectual and moral power, and this case constitutes mental and moral education. It can be applied to the improvement of diet, clothing, housing, social interaction, and methods of business, therefore constituting a study in living. Jiu-Jitsu, in its fuller sense, is a study and a method of training in mind, body and spirit as well as in the regulation of life and affairs.

ETYMOLOGY OF THE WORD JIU-JITSU

Jiu-Jitsu is the most ancient and complete martial art known today. The word jujutsu may be translated freely as “the art of flexibility” or "the art of gaining victory by yielding or pliancy."

Jiu-Jitsu is divided in four major sections:

• Stand Up Self Defense
• Grappling Techniques
• Throwing Techniques
• Striking Techniques