Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu  is a martial art, combat sport system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was formed from Kodokan judo ground fighting (newaza) fundamentals that were taught by a number of individuals including Takeo Yano, Mitsuyo Maeda and Soshihiro Satake. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu eventually came to be its own art through the experiments, practices, and adaptation of judo through Carlos and Helio Gracie (who passed their knowledge on to their extended family) as well as other instructors who were students of Maeda, such as Luiz Franca.

BJJ promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger, heavier assailant by using proper technique, leverage, and most notably, taking the fight to the ground, and then applying joint-locks and chokeholds to defeat the opponent. BJJ training can be used for sport grappling tournaments and in self-defense situations. Sparring (commonly referred to as rolling) and live drilling play a major role in training, and a premium is placed on performance, especially in competition, in relation to progress and ascension through its ranking system.

Since its inception in 1882, its parent art of judo was separated from older systems of Japanese jujutsu by an important difference that was passed on to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: it is not solely a martial art, but it is also a sport; a method for promoting physical fitness and building character in young people; and, ultimately, a way of life.

Want to join us at Antwerp Jiu-Jitsu? We understand what a big step it is to start a combat sport from zero and will guide you all the way. Antwerp Jiu-Jitsu has a range of people with experience from beginners to advanced. Everyone trains together so you can feel right at home and take advantage of the experience of everyone else. At Antwerp Jiu-Jitsu we pride ourselves in being open to everyone. It doesn’t matter what age, gender, nationality, background, team, .. you are.

Are you interested in training with us? Everyone start with 3 trial classes. Once those classes are finished, you can join the team. Beginners can do all the classes but we do recommend to join the beginners class on Thursday. Check the schedule for more information.

Classes take place in Sporthal Kattenbroek, Edegem and minimum age for participating is 16 years old.