Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu sees popularity grow

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu first gained prominence by being the choice method of combat in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Now it is making a impact in Ann Arbor.

After three years, there are now approximately 60 members of Michigan's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club.

"It was started so we would have a place to practice, but then when we had our first practice, 35 people showed up," club president Francis Garcia said. "We had no idea how popular it was."

Jiu-Jitsu is a form of wrestling that focuses on grappling and leverage to defeat an opponent.

The club generally attracts former high school wrestlers and those trained in karate, but the club also sees members who want to get in shape or are looking to learn self-defense.

"It is a pretty casual environment," Garcia said. "There isn't a very rigid schedule."

Members of the club are trained within the group by those experienced in the art. The members also learn by competing against each other.

"Very experienced members are open to showing beginners new moves," Josh Greenbaum said. "Someone will get tapped and they will say 'How did you do that? Show me that.'"

While many have competition experience, no experience is necessary to join.

"We have beginners take a two-day course where they learn the basic moves," Garcia said.

The group competes in tournaments offered by Ann Arbor Karate clubs, as well as tournaments throughout the United States.

For more information, contact Garcia at francisg@umich.edu.

- Jeff Phillips