The Carlos way

Carlos studied and trained with Maeda until the age of nineteen, when he moved to Rio de Janeiro with his family. In 1925 he opened the “Academia Gracie de Jiu-Jitsu.” Carlos shared his knowledge with his brothers, not only his self-defense techniques but also his “Gracie diet,” which emphasized grouping foods together for easier digestion.

Carlos, once a frail young lad, began challenging and defeating much bigger opponents. This would become the founding principle behind BJJ—that a smaller, weaker person can defend themselves against a stronger, bigger assailant by using joint locks, chokes, and other immobilizing techniques. In essence, it teaches one to use an opponent’s power against him.

The legacy and teachings of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu was carried on by Carlos’s brother, Hélio, and Carlos’ eldest son, Carlson. Today, the tradition continues with many members of the Gracie extended family, including the coaches at the Carlson Gracie MMA training schools and classes. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu continues to evolve as a form of self-defense, and is an integral part of many fighters’ training.