The History of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
From Japan to Brazil
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originated from traditional judo techniques introduced to Brazil by Mitsuyo Maeda in the early 1900s. After training members of the Gracie family, the art evolved into a highly technical system centered on leverage, positional control, and efficient ground tactics, enabling smaller individuals to effectively neutralize larger opponents.
Throughout the decades, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu transformed into a comprehensive method of self-defense, a refined competitive sport, and a global martial arts discipline supported by structured curriculum, belt rankings, and international federations.
Evolution Into a Global Discipline
As the techniques were refined, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gained its own distinct identity, separating itself from its judo origins and becoming a complete grappling system recognized worldwide.
Over time, federations were created to standardize competition rules, regulate ranking requirements, and promote the growth of the sport at an international level. Organizations such as the IBJJF, UAEJJF, AJP Tour, SJJIF, and many regional associations established uniform guidelines that helped professionalize the art and elevate the level of global competition.
A formal belt structure was also developed, allowing practitioners to progress through clearly defined stages of technical and personal growth. This organized approach contributed to the expansion of BJJ across continents, resulting in strong and passionate communities throughout Europe, Asia, and the United States.
Today, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the fastest-growing martial arts in the world, with the number of practitioners increasing every year and thousands of new academies opening to meet the rising demand.
The Growth of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Fort Lauderdale and Across the United States
Expansion Driven by the UFC
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gained massive visibility in the United States during the rise of the UFC in the 1990s. Royce Gracie demonstrated the effectiveness of the art, leading many Americans to seek BJJ training for self-defense, fitness, and competition.
In Florida, the growth became even stronger due to the state’s warm and humid climate, which closely resembles the weather in Brazil.
This similarity made Florida an attractive destination for Brazilian athletes, coaches, and world-class competitors looking to continue their training abroad.
As a result, many high-level teams and professionals established themselves in the region. American Top Team, headquartered in Florida, became one of the most influential MMA teams in the world, attracting fighters from every continent and helping solidify the state as a global reference point for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Fort Lauderdale naturally benefited from this ecosystem, quickly becoming one of the strongest and most respected BJJ hubs in Florida.
Celebrities and Influencers Who Train BJJ
The popularity of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu increased even further as public figures took up the sport. Personalities such as Mark Zuckerberg, Tom Hardy, Keanu Reeves, Demi Lovato, and Jonah Hill train consistently. Their participation shows that BJJ is not limited to athletes—it is a discipline embraced by entrepreneurs, actors, creators, and everyday families.
A Lifestyle Adopted by Families in Fort Lauderdale
In Fort Lauderdale, BJJ represents more than training. It is a lifestyle that encourages discipline, improves overall health, and builds a strong sense of community. Many families practice together, reinforcing healthy habits and long-term physical and mental development.
At Athlas Training Team, this culture is especially evident: the academy serves over 600 students, including children, adults, families, hobbyists, and professional fighters. This diverse community trains under a unified methodology, creating an environment where beginners, competitors, and entire families grow side by side with consistency and respect.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for All Ages: Kids to Masters
Early Start for Children
Children can safely begin BJJ as early as age three. At this stage, classes focus on coordination, discipline, respect, and body awareness. Young students learn how to listen, follow rules, and train in a controlled environment.
Teens and Adults: Technique, Conditioning, and Self-Defense
For teens and adults, BJJ delivers a strong combination of physical conditioning and mental resilience. Training improves mobility, strength, and problem-solving, while providing a proven method of self-defense. Progress is continuous and structured.
Masters: Longevity and Low-Impact Efficiency
Unlike wrestling or judo, which require impact and explosiveness, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be practiced safely well into older age. Because the art relies on leverage and technique, masters can continue to train regularly with minimal risk, making BJJ one of the few martial arts suitable for lifelong practice.
A Martial Art for the Entire Family
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu uniquely welcomes parents, children, and siblings on the same journey. Families in Fort Lauderdale often train together, creating shared discipline, purpose, and long-term healthy habits.
Choosing the Right Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Fort Lauderdale School
Age-Specific and Level-Specific Classes
Quality instruction depends on proper class structure. Dividing students by age and experience ensures safety, prevents mismatched training partners, and allows instructors to deliver targeted technical guidance.
Young children require a developmental approach focused on coordination, discipline, and fundamental movements, while older kids and teens benefit from more advanced drills, situational training, and confidence-building exercises.
Adults, whether beginners or advanced practitioners, progress most effectively when placed in level-appropriate classes that match their pace, physical ability, and training goals. A well-organized academy offers dedicated programs for each stage of development, guaranteeing that every student—regardless of age—receives tailored instruction, consistent progress, and a safe training environment.
A Clear Curriculum and Teaching Methodology
A strong BJJ school has a defined curriculum with organized progressions, belt evaluations, and consistent instruction. Students know what they are learning, why they are learning it, and how to advance.
Qualified and Certified Instructors
Teachers should be experienced, certified, and registered with reputable federations. Professional coaches ensure safe training, technical accuracy, and a positive training culture.
Structure, Cleanliness, and a Safe Environment
The ideal Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Fort Lauderdale academy maintains clean mats, respectful behavior, and a strong sense of community. The environment directly influences the student’s long-term success.
We will also feature a video demonstrating a more advanced position, which you can watch here.
