Brazilian Jiu Jitsu originated in the early 20th century when Japanese judoka Mitsuyo Maeda taught Judo in Brazil, most notably to young members of the Gracie family. Carlos Gracie & his younger brother Hélio took on Judo and adapted its rules to have a more pronounced focus on ground fighting and submission holds.

Their motivation was to make the art more effective ‘in the streets’ and for a smaller practitioner to be able to effectively subdue a larger opponent. They called their innovation Gracie, and Brazilian, Jiu Jitsu and made it popular through Gracie challenges, where Gracie family members and students would ‘storm’ other martial arts gyms and challenge other black belts to fight them.

BJJ is built on the idea that technique and strategy can overcome size and strength. It embodies the principle of using an opponent’s energy and movement against them, often favoring patience and precision over brute aggression.
Unlike striking-based arts, where a single punch can end a fight, BJJ encourages control, problem-solving, and positional dominance—allowing for a more measured and technical approach to combat.
The mat tends to equalize social hierarchies: once you’re training, it doesn’t matter who you are outside the gym—everyone is there to learn, sweat, and improve.

To pratice BJJ with the Samourais, there are several opportunities. Throughout the academic year, trainings for people of all levels happen every Monday (17:30 – 19:00) and Wednesday (17:15 – 19:15). Additional members-only sparring sessions for experienced practitioners often happen on Saturdays (10:00 – 11:30).

As a person unfamiliar with BJJ, you will get to discover many positions one might end up in while playing the game. As you advance, the intensity gets a bit higher and focus is put on playing the game with a resisting opponent. Experienced people learn techniques to use on adept practitioners. In all classes you can join wearing a gi, or not. That is up to you!

For a structured start to your journey with BJJ, there is the option of the Introduction Course offered by one of our teachers. This course is paid and lasts for the duration of a quarter. This year, classes happen on Fridays 20:30 – 22:00. Signup periods and latest info can be found on the SSC website.