Martial Arts in Brampton: Karate Vs Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Training in martial arts offers a wide range of benefits that extend beyond physical fitness. Through disciplines such as karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, you can develop self-defence skills while also experiencing weight loss, muscle gain, and physical wellness.

In addition to the physical advantages, martial arts training also provides mental and emotional benefits. For instance, it fosters discipline, resilience, and patience, and helps you develop a strong mindset. Furthermore, structured workout routines can serve as a valuable outlet for stress relief, contributing to your overall mental well-being.

Let’s look at two of the most popular martial arts classes provided in Brampton studios like Legends MMA: karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Which Martial Arts Class in Brampton Should You Join: Karate or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Here is what you need to know about karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu before deciding which to start training in:

• Karate

Origin and Etymology: The word karate comes from the Japanese words meaning ‘empty’ and ‘hand,’ which suggests the fighting style of this unarmed martial art. Karate evolved over hundreds of years in East Asia and was finally systemized in the 17th century in Okinawa. The Japanese shifted to an unarmed form of martial art when carrying weapons was banned.

Like other types of Asian martial arts, karate also focuses intensely on the fighter’s mental improvement. These aspects include attitude, courtesy, respect, and honour. Karate also has a prime focus on rituals and costumes and a complex ranking system that follows the colour of the fighter’s belt.

Techniques and Styles: There are four main styles of karate, which include specific techniques and stances:

1. Goju-Ryu, established in 1930, involves counterstrike movements in offensive positions and circular blocks in defensive positions. It is very similar to jiu-jitsu and uses breathing power.
2. Shotokan-Ryu, established in 1938, uses wide, linear attacks and quick strikes. This is the most popular style of karate in the world.
3. Wado-Ryu was established in 1939. This style is similar to jiu-jitsu and utilizes the harmony of movements. Compared to other karate styles, it has less body contact, more evading, and shorter stances.
4. Shito-Ryu, established in 1928, is mostly about landing powerful strikes in the 50 katas (predetermined moves, stances, and strikes) learned by the students. This form requires considerable physical strength to execute.

Requirements: The physical requirements for karate training in Brampton are agility, flexibility, and balance. However, there are also others, like spatial awareness, patience, and a sense of honour.

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Origin and Etymology: Brazilian jiu-jitsu was established in 1925 by the Brazilian Gracie brothers after one of them (Carlos Gracie) was taught Japanese jiu-jitsu by a travelling martial artist (Mitsuyo Maeda) in 1917. The term ‘jiu-jitsu’ or ‘jujutsu’ is derived from the words ju, meaning gentle, and jutsu meaning art. Thus, the term literally means the gentle arts.

The Gracie family eventually adapted the original jiu-jitsu styles into their own forms, and it became a combat sport in Brazil. Thus, the most widely practised forms of Brazilian jiu-jitsu today are mainly due to the works of Helio and Carlos Gracie. However, they were defeated in a gym battle by Luis Franca, another disciple of Maeda. Franca’s lineage of Brazilian jiu-jitsu is most influential for their use of footlocks.

Techniques and Styles: The four main styles of Brazilian jiu-jitsu are explained below:

1. Pressure passing is a fighting style in which the fighter uses weight distribution, strength, and aggression to stabilize their position and ‘pass the guard’ (establish a more dominant position).
2. Loose passing is more timing-based and depends upon the proper use of misdirection and anticipation to execute moves.
3. The judoka, or wrestler in BJJ, needs explosive strength to constantly execute takedowns. They also need good weight distribution and strength for pressure attacks.
4. The open guard fighter uses quick, precise, and seamless movements, which require good technical and strategic capabilities.

Requirements: Brazilian jiu-jitsu classes in Brampton will improve your cardiovascular capacity, flexibility, agility, and mobility. You will also need stamina and dedication to practice for long periods of time.

Martial arts classes in Brampton will teach you about the origins and development of each martial art, helping you understand their fundamental values. Both karate and Brazilian jiu-jitsu have their roots in Japan, but BJJ was modified by the Gracie family and Luis Franca based on the teachings of Maeda. These martial arts have different forms that require dedication, patience, flexibility, strength, and mobility to master. However, whether you choose karate or Brazilian jiu-jitsu, both will help you stay fit and strong.