Jiujitsu is an extremely diverse martial art that focuses on modern-practical self-defense as well as physical fitness. Its fighting methods consist of striking, throwing and grappling techniques making the practitioner capable of protecting themselves in any position. Because of the devastating nature of jiujitsu techniques, it has become known as one of the most effective hand to hand combat systems in the world.
During training, a great emphasis is placed on establishing and maintaining control of the attacker in the most efficient way possible. Movements tend to emphasize the use of timing and leverage to capitalize on an attacker’s momentum and create opportunities to place a joint in a compromised position or to break balance as preparatory for a throw or takedown.
Ground grappling :
Ground grappling is the staple skill set for a jiujitsu practitioner. In grappling, the object is to pin your opponent and/or place them in a specialized choke hold or joint lock that forces defeat via submission.
The key to good grappling is to use leverage, timing and technique to gain an advantageous position. A dominant, or top, position allows the jiujitsu practitioner to pin and otherwise control their opponent, and to possibly execute a submission technique. If locked in a bottom position, the practitioner’s main concern is to improve their position by utilizing escapes and reversals. Some submissions do occur from the bottom, however, and some grapplers actually prefer to attack from this position. As its practitioners become more advanced, grappling becomes more akin to a chess match as the opponents strategize from either position by thinking several moves ahead.
As you progress, you will train in two forms of grappling: with a gi, and without (no-gi). The gi form emphasizes grips and submissions which make use of the different parts of the uniform, such as the lapel and sleeves. The no-gi form stresses body control of the torso and head, as well as submissions that can be performed with your bare extremities. It is also good to note that at different times of the year the clothing that people wear can change. The complete practitioner should be prepared for any type of situation.
Throwing techniques :
Throwing skills are a major aspect of jiujitsu. Learning to use your opponent’s momentum to off-balance and perform a throw or takedown is a very important part of self defense. Likewise, you will also practice the art of falling to protect yourself when thrown. Two students adept in both throwing and falling can alternate training techniques with no fear of injury.
Countering a throw or takedown attempt from an attacker (by way of headlock, bear hug or any grabbing of the jacket) is also an important aspect of jiujitsu training when being applied to street altercations.
Striking techniques :
“Whoever manages the distance, manages the damage.” Since a fight typically starts from a stand-up position, striking skills are generally the first line of defense. The goal of striking within jiujitsu is not necessarily to “knock the opponent out”, but instead, to manage the distance. Closing the distance and establishing control is most often the primary goal. However, this tactic is typically only used to take a single adversary to the ground. Against multiple opponents; striking combinations, dynamic entries and continuous throws would be used to keep yourself standing.
Live Practice :
At the end of each class, students actively practice the strategies and techniques of throwing and grappling in a form of free-style sparring often referred as “rolling”. In this setting, students face off against one another in a friendly, controlled competition where the focus is not to win, but rather to test and polish technique in a live situation. Free-style sparring involving the use of striking techniques is another form of free practice that is encouraged for the advanced ranks and kickboxing students. Students who can release their egos and simply try to have fun gain the most benefit from all forms of sparring.
Adult Jiujitsu classes:
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 7:15pm
Tuesday & Thursday 10:00am
Saturday 12:30pm (no-gi)