Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is an orthogonal development of pre-1925 Kodokan Judo (known then as ju-jitsu). It arrived in Brazil when Mitsuyo Maeda first introduced it during his visit to Brazil with the hopes of establishing a Japanese colony/community in the country. It was further developed by the Gracie family during the mid-20th century. Read More...

A Japanese judoka, prizefighter, and former member of the Kodokan named Mitsuyo Maeda emigrated to Brazil in the 1910s where a local influential businessman named Gastão Gracie helped him get established. In return for his aid, Maeda taught judo to Gastão's son Carlos, who then taught the art to his brothers, including Hélio Gracie. Through their own study and development, Carlos and Hélio are regarded as the originators of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a style distinct from Judo. Read More...

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes ground fighting techniques and submission holds involving joint-locks and chokeholds. The premise is that most of the advantage of a larger, stronger opponent comes from superior reach and more powerful strikes, both of which are largely negated if wrestling on the ground. BJJ includes many techniques to throw or tackle opponents to the ground, these are notoriously difficult to resist even for people who are trained in their countermeasures. Once the opponent is on the ground, a number of maneuvers (and counter-maneuvers) are available to manipulate the opponent into suitable position for the application of a submission hold. This system of maneuvering and manipulation can be likened to a form of kinetic chess when utilized by two experienced practitioners. A submission hold is the equivalent of checkmate. Read More...

At KIMURA Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, each belt becomes progressively more difficult to get because the level of fluidity and technical knowledge demanded increases. It is a distinctly individual sport and distinctly promotes hard work being the key to advancement. This is not a sport where time spent training will yield a certain belt, but where quality time is essential. Read More...

Look no further than the success of Brazil’s Gracie family. The Gracies originated the techniques in the early 20th century and quickly proved them successful by beating fighters using boxing and Capoeira, the then dominant fighting styles in Brazil. Through demonstrations and victories in actual street fights, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu became Brazil’s favored real-life combat fighting technique. Read More...

Anyone can master the techniques in BJJ. The discipline uses leverage to its advantage instead of size and strength. One need not be in top condition to learn BJJ, although the training will lead to improved flexibility and fitness to whatever level the participant desires. Children are easily taught BJJ.

Yes! You can pay a daily fee, by the week, or month. Whichever is more convenient for you. Our doors are open to everyone regardless of your current affiliation.

Yes, we have a daily schedule for private lessons. Just send us an email (info@kimurabjj.com) and we will be happy to schedule them for you.

To begin you'll only need a generic Kimono (GI), which we sell at the academy. If you are only trying BJJ for a single day, we can loan the kimono for the trial class. The rest of the equipment needed is provided.