Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is the single most effective martial art you can learn for self defense. Unlike most martial arts, Jiu Jitsu doesn’t rely on size and strength, but principles like leverage, balance, momentum, strong or weak structures, weight and pressure, good vs bad alignment, etc., and how these apply to human bodies.  A smaller person could easily use BJJ techniques to defeat a much larger and stronger opponent. Since real-world fights often end up on the ground, training in a martial art that focuses exclusively on ground combat is both practical and prudent. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will also get you in shape! It is a physically demanding sport that requires both flexibility and endurance. You will exert a great deal of energy on the mat, and that exertion will get you into peak physical condition. Best of all, with BJJ, exercise is fun, never a chore. Finally BJJ gives you an amazing community of teammates that will push you to be your very best version every time you are on the mats!