While many seek Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes to get in better physical shape and have an outlet for more intense physical activity, BJJ is an excellent tool and skill for self-defense in the real world.
Building Strength Through BJJ
With so many mixed martial art competitions and even movies showcasing martial arts as almost stunt-like, many people almost forget that the lessons and skills they learn and develop in martial arts classes such as BJJ can be used and applied in real life, especially in dangerous or threatening situations. With crime and attacks on the rise in many parts of the world, it’s crucial to be able to defend yourself quickly and effectively against any opponent of any size.
One of the most significant examples of this was during the Royce Gracie vs. Ken Shamrock fight in 2014 when Gracie, one of the most influential professional mixed martial artists, successfully defended himself against and defeated a man nearly three times his weight using BJJ techniques and moves.
How Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Aligns With Self Defense
The primary focus of BJJ is to use your opponent against themselves by (1) establishing control, (2) gaining dominance over them, and (3) getting them to submit. The literal translation for jiu-jitsu is “gentle art."
While several strikes, chokeholds, and other locks are taught to BJJ students, the goal is to gain control and submission over the opponent without relying on aggressive force. Students learn how to leverage an opponent's weight against them or establish dominance by locking their opponent in a position where they are unable to get out or move, resulting in their opponent submitting.
These types of moves are vital for those who, for example, may find themselves jogging through a park by themselves as a form of exercise. Should someone run up to them to try to attack them, they will know how to use that person’s momentum against them and get them to the ground. Rather than relying on brute moves such as throwing punches, BJJ shows effective ways to restrain and defeat an opponent without potentially breaking bones.
Isn't Jiu-Jitsu only for ground fighting?
A common misconception is that BJJ is only effective in "ground fighting," which is a fight that takes place on the floor since this is the starting position for any BJJ match. However, BJJ is just as effective in a “standing fight,” which is an altercation that takes place with both opponents on their feet.
BJJ teaches moves that help neutralize an opponent's position even if they manage to get a hold of your body or clothing. BJJ students wear a very specific robe called a gi, which helps train students in how to leverage an opponent's clothing against them through various grips and other methods. BJJ teaches several defensive as well as offensive moves to help you in any situation.
The Confidence to Be Strong
BJJ will give you the mental and physical strength to properly defend yourself in a controlled setting such as our dojo or on the streets. Students who study and take BJJ classes feel much more confident in their abilities to defend not only themselves but also their friends, family, and other loved ones.
At Crucible, not only do we teach our students the core fundamentals of BJJ, but we also stay updated on any latest and greatest martial arts trends that we incorporate in our classes. Contact us today to schedule your first lesson and immediately feel the difference in your mindset and physical strength!
If you are interested in What Crucible Jiu Jitsu has to offer book a class below or contact us for more information