Jiu Jitsu is a form of Brazilian martial arts that emphasizes grappling and ground fighting techniques. The form underscores competition and sport as a means of building physical fitness, and can often be seen today in mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions. Jiu Jitsu is practiced as a method in which smaller opponents can defeat larger ones through technique and the use of leverage.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is heavily influenced by the older jujutsu and judo schools of martial arts. Jujutsu originated in Japan as a form of unarmed martial art that utilized throws, pins, and holds to defeat opponents. However, the non-competitive nature of jujutsu led to the eventual development of judo and later to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, which highlights live competition. Practitioners of jujutsu often practiced safe fall techniques to avoid injuries while practicing the art.