Judo techniques (waza) are divided into three categories: throwing (nagewaza), grappling (katamewaza), and attacking vital points (atemiwaza). The first two are used in competition, but the atemiwaza is used only in practice. Agility is essential, and judo movements are loose and natural. In modern-day judo competition, a match begins after competitors bow to each other and the main judge gives a command. A full point, called ippon, is awarded for a successful throwing, holding, strangling, or joint-lock technique.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and combat sport system that focuses on grappling with particular emphasis on ground fighting. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was developed from Kodokan Judo ground fighting (newaza) fundamentals that were taught by a number of Japanese individuals including Takeo Yano, Mitsuyo Maeda, Soshihiro Satake, and Isao Okano. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu eventually came to be its own defined combat sport through the innovations, practices, and adaptation of judo.
 
BJJ is founded on the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a bigger, stronger, heavier opponent by using technique, leverage, and most notably, taking the fight to the ground, and then applying joint locks and chokeholds to defeat the opponent. BJJ training can be used for sport grappling tournaments and in self-defense situations. Sparring and live drilling play a major role in training and the practitioner's development. BJJ is considered a martial art, a sport, a method for promoting physical fitness and building character, and a way of life.