Brazilian Jiu Jitsu promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique. Most notably by applying joint-locks and chokes to defeat the opponent. Brazilian jiu jitsu is the most effective self-defense martial art in the world. It's a great martial art for kids, teens, and woman. Gracie United is headed by Professor Rafael Ellwanger in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. Our students compete in sport grappling tournaments (gi and no-gi) and mixed martial arts (MMA) . However the majority of them train bjj or mma for self defense and fitness purposes.