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Grappling Arts - defining and representing |
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Grappling refers to the gripping, handling and controlling of an opponent without the use of striking - typically through the application of various grappling holds, choke holds, and counters to various hold attempts. Grappling forms an important part of both ground fighting and standing clinch fighting.
The Grappling Arts Association is driven by the passion for two sports which are very much hybrid sports in their own right, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (gi) and Submission Grappling (also called Submission Wrestling, No - Gi, and/or Submission Fighting). It is widely acknowledged that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is the worlds fastest growing martial art. Submission Grappling which is a hybrid of techniques used in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as well as wrestling is also on the increase.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has its roots in Judo and upon its introduction into Brazil in 1914 (with the first academy opening up in 1925, by Carlos Gracie) it has been on a steady increase all over the world. Its popularity has however come about due to its combatants success within the world of Mix Martial Arts and it, along with Submission Grappling, are now seen as vital link in the chain that makes a complete Mixed Martial Artist competitor. Its success also on the Submission Grappling scene is unparalleled. In most major championships the majority (90%) of all winning competitors have all been from Brazilian Jiu Jitsu backgrounds. Its hard to deny its influence within the world of Grappling.
Submission Grappling, with all its growth, has had much of an up and down journey when it comes to the core development and organisation of the sport. Much of the contention regarding Submission Grappling has been centered around the rules systems and how that defines the sport as more of a submission type event or just another wrestling event. Hence the different terms used to describe the same art.
An example of sports that use grappling include, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Submission Grappling and Fighting, Wrestling, Judo, Sambo, mixed martial arts etc. It is important to understand that what the GAA defines and recognises as Grappling and who the GAA represent are different.
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