MMA is short for Mixed Martial Arts. It combines moves and strategies of different martial art techniques in subduing the opponent. Jiu-Jitsu, on the other hand, is a martial art style that focuses primarily on grappling and control.

Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most popular Samurai martial arts styles in the world today. There are many forms of Jiu-Jitsu, and the popular ones are the Japanese and the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. 

Japanese Jiu-Jitsu is regarded as the “Mother” art, and it is believed to be the original form of Jiu-Jitsu. Additionally, the Japanese Jiu-Jitsu pays more attention to form and “Kata”.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is regarded as the third martial art style stemming from the Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. It is as popular as Judo and similar to it in techniques. Presently, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is among the most widely practiced grappling arts. 

Truth be told, Jiu-Jitsu is Jiu-Jitsu. For example, in Brazil those practicing Jiu-Jitsu never considered their style to be regarded as “Brazilian” or that they were practicing “Japanese” Jiu Jitsu. 

Moving on, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or just Jiu-Jitsu, can be regarded as a major foundation upon which MMA is built today. 

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MMA AND JIU-JITSU

Although some Jiu-Jitsu techniques, such as grappling and control, can be observed during MMA competitions, MMA draws its techniques from different types of martial arts (BJJ inclusive). Below, we explore the differences between MMA and Jiu-Jitsu a little further.

1. Purpose

MMA (as a sport): The objective in MMA competition is to win by TKO, knockout or by using Jiu-Jitsu submission techniques successfully on the opponent.

Jiu-Jitsu: The main objective is to subdue an opponent through chokehold, joint lock by using the arms, hips, and legs.

2. Components

MMA: Combines Wrestling, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, boxing, Judo, Jiu-Jitsu and many other traditional martial art forms. In a nutshell, MMA is made up of Jiu-Jitsu and other martial art forms.

Jiu-Jitsu: Depending on the type of Jiu-Jitsu, there are different components. For instance, Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu combines groundwork, Judo, control and grappling.

3. Mental and Stamina Requirements

MMA: Requires mastery of various martial arts techniques and creative combinations of techniques to secure a win. It requires a high level of physical and mental strength.

Jiu-Jitsu: It requires lesser physical strength when compared to MMA. However, when you are on the floor, you need all your mental faculties to focus on how to control and make your opponent submit either through chokehold or joint lock.

4. Rules Regarding Kicks and Strikes

MMA: In MMA competitions, fighters are permitted to use knee strikes, leg kicks, and strikes from both elbow and hands.

Jiu-Jitsu: Kicks and strikes are not usually allowed (In competition). However, opponents can be subdued through locks, grappling and throws. In some cases, little strikes are allowed. 

Side note – Jiu-Jitsu was designed as a self defense platform to subdue an attacker with both strikes and without.

5. Training attire

MMA: Trainees are usually required to wear only shorts and a shirt or rashguard while using both modified gloves and shin guards for protection.  During competition, the rashguard or shirt will be removed along with the safety shin guards.

Jiu-Jitsu: Trainees may be dressed in a GI Kimono or in a rashguard and shorts.

Overall, the main purpose of Jiu-Jitsu is for self-defence, while MMA still has its connotation to being more aggressive. Aggressive or not, both martial arts have great advantages when combined and used effectively.

Many people today are taking Jiu-Jitsu and MMA classes to improve themselves, build confidence and join a community that inspires growth.

At CMMA we offer classes for all ranges and experience levels of Mixed Martial Arts, which even includes:  Boxing, Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu and Wrestling, . Come find one that fits best for you and or your children. 

Your first class is FREE – Click here to register and come in.