The art of Jiu-Jitsu is to maintain efficient use of energy, minimal movements, and the momentum of your opponent to your advantage. Jiu-Jitsu (also spelled jujitsu) promotes the principle that a smaller, weaker person using leverage and proper technique can successfully defend themselves against a bigger, stronger assailant.

The Gracie family is the Brazilian family responsible for the creation of the Martial Art named Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. The late Carlos Gracie Sr. learned Japanese Jiu-Jitsu and opened the first Gracie Academy. His younger brother Hélio Gracie adapted those ancient Asian techniques, creating what is known as Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu came to international prominence in the martial arts community in the 1990s, when Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu expert Royce Gracie won the first, second and fourth Ultimate Fighting Championships. Royce fought against often much larger opponents who were practicing other styles including boxing, shoot-fighting, karate, judo, tae kwon do and wrestling. It has since become a staple art for many MMA fighters and is largely credited for bringing wide-spread attention to the importance of ground fighting.