Brazilian  Jiu-Jitsu - Gracie Jiu-Jitsu 

Today Jiu-Jitsu is popular for it's superior sport performance but in the past this art was used to survive during war time in Japan.  The history of Jiu-Jitsu originates in Japan during feudal periods.  The Jiu-Jitsu style of martial art uses arm and leg locks, chokes, and joint manipulations to control and subdue an assailant or opponent.

Jigora Kano of Japan is one of the modern day founding fathers of Jiu-Jitsu as well as Judo.  Mitsuyo Maeda, one of Jigora Kano's best Judo students brought the art to the USA, he modified the techniques to be more condusive to sport competition, using more of the original randori (ground sparring) techniques of old Japanese Feudal Jiu-Jitsu.

Mitsuyo Maeda was also the political ambassador in Brazil, and a friend of Gastao Gracie of Brazil.  In appreciation for Gastao's friendship he shared the ancient knowledge of Jiu-Jitsu with his sons Carlos, Osvaldo, Gastro Jr., Jorge, and Helio.  The Gracie's developed a  heirachy of Jiu-Jitsu positions and refined strategic movements.

Carlos Gracie taught his son Carlson Gracie who taught his son Carlson Gracie Jr., who in turn taught the native Brazilian Pedro Vianna, now an international Jiu-Jitsu Champion. 

Pedro Vianna has spent his life learning these percise and disciplined techniques and holds a 3rd degree (Dan ) black belt recognized by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation and USBJJF.  Sensei Vianna shares the art of Gracie Brazilian JiuJitsu with the students of American Tiger Karate Academy.