Have you ever wondered what it was like for a kid to learn Jiu Jitsu in the early days of Gracie BJJ? 

To truly grasp the significance of this martial art’s evolution, let’s rewind to Brazil in the early 1900s — a time when one family’s influence would forever change the landscape of martial arts.

Picture Brazil back then, a country alive with new cultural exchanges. At the time, Brazil needed workers for big farms that grew coffee and other crops, and Japan was having some economic problems with many people struggling to find good jobs. 

The governments of Japan and Brazil made agreements to make it easier for Japanese workers to move. This way, people from Japan could find new opportunities in Brazil, and Brazil could get the help it needed for its farms.

As Japanese immigrants arrived, they brought their rich traditions with them. Among these immigrants was Mitsuyo Maeda, a formidable prize fighter skilled in the ancient art of Jujutsu. Maeda’s presence marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Brazilian martial arts. 

Enter Carlos Gracie, a young, Brazilian athlete who, along with his family, began training under Maeda. Carlos’s enthusiasm for the art was matched only by his determination to master it. But the story of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu truly shines through the experiences of Carlos’s younger brother, Helio Gracie.

[Competition for Kids in Muay Thai]

Defying physics at any size and age

Helio was smaller and physically weaker compared to his older brothers, but his spirit and determination were unmatched. Faced with the challenge of adapting Jujutsu techniques to his own build, Helio started to innovate. 

He honed in on techniques that relied less on brute strength and more on leverage, joint manipulation, and submissions. This focus on the ground game transformed Jujutsu into what today we call Jiu Jitsu, making it not only more effective but also more accessible to those who might not have been as physically imposing.

Helio’s innovations made Jiu Jitsu a powerful tool for anyone, regardless of size or strength. For kids, it meant having a chance to learn how to protect themselves in a way that was both practical and exciting.

Register Today

EASTON OPEN ’24

October 19 + 20

• SOUTH SUBURBAN SPORTS COMPLEX, LITTLETON, CO

Register now

Imagine being a child at that time and discovering a martial art that could empower you to defend yourself with skill and strategy! Not just that – but it also happened to be a lot of fun.

Carlos supported and encouraged Helio’s innovations, understanding that these modifications not only made the art more accessible to individuals of different sizes and strengths but also enhanced its effectiveness. 

Together, he and Helio contributed to the evolution of Jiu Jitsu, turning it into a martial art that emphasizes technique and strategy over sheer strength. This collaborative approach was crucial in the development and spread of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

[Easton Open Spring 2024 Photo Blog: Kids!]

Gracie’s legacy

Carlos’s dedication didn’t stop with his own training. He went on to establish the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy in Brazil, a pioneering institution that would lay the groundwork for future generations. 

The academy’s influence spread, with Carlos’s sons and nephews expanding its reach to new locations in Brazil and eventually the USA. This expansion helped to solidify the Gracie family’s role in popularizing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu across the globe.

Carlos himself had a large family with 21 children, 13 went on to achieve the rank of black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu!

This incredible achievement demonstrates the family’s deep commitment to the art and the legacy continued with Carlos’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Today, the Gracie family has a vast network of members spanning multiple generations, many of whom continue to train, teach, and promote Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. 

Some key members of the Gracie family actively involved in BJJ today include Rickson, Royler, Renzo and Rorion Gracie. Rickson and Royler Gracie are both prominent figures in the BJJ community, high-profile practitioners and teachers.

Renzo Gracie is a well-known instructor and competitor, particularly in the United States. He has established a significant presence on the East Coast through his network of schools, including the Renzo Gracie Academy locations in New York City and other areas. Rorion Gracie is also a key figure in bringing BJJ to the U.S. and a founder of the UFC.

In addition to these prominent figures, many other Gracies across various branches of the family are involved in training and teaching. The family’s influence remains significant, with members actively participating in the sport both in Brazil and internationally.

[The IBJJF Belt System for Kids]

Kids today

For kids learning Jiu Jitsu today, the journey is about more than just mastering techniques; it’s about connecting with a rich history and tradition while learning discipline and perseverance.

Each training session is a step along a path that has been paved by generations of dedicated martial artists. Embracing this history can make the practice of Jiu Jitsu even more meaningful.

So, as you dive into Jiu Jitsu, remember that you’re part of a long and colorful tradition. Lean into the journey, appreciate the process, and enjoy every moment of your training – even the tough ones.

Jiu Jitsu isn’t about simply being the best, developing skills or beating all of your friends; the path of BJJ is about honoring the legacy of those who came before you by shaping an respected, wise and battle-tested future.

[How Competing in Martial Arts Benefits Your Kids]