### Instruction: Why is Brazilian jiu jitsu an excellent martial art?
### Response: Brazilian jiu jitsu (BJJ) is an excellent martial art for a number of reasons.  BJJ is, first and foremost, a generally safe martial art.  BJJ does not emphasize or focus on striking techniques like punching and kicking, rather, BJJ focuses on use of leverage and body mechanics to control and subdue an opponent.  BJJ is accessible to almost anyone regardless of age, sex, or fitness level as the practitioner can determine how relaxed or aggressive to be during practicing the art.  BJJ is an excellent form of exercise and promotes cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, strength, endurance, and an overall sense of well-being.  Further, there are approaches to BJJ that resonate with people who are casual hobbyists as well as those that seek international competition- and all levels of studends across that spectru.  BJJ is easily a life-long endeavor that is safe, engaging, and also an excellent complement to striking based martial arts such as karate, kickboxing, and boxing.