When it comes to fighting, most people assume bigger is better. A 100lb woman isn’t going to be able to overpower a 200lb man, right? Not necessarily. If that woman is trained in Brazilian jiu jitsu (BJJ), my money’s on her.
BJJ is one of the most effective ways to defend yourself against an attacker. Using controlled, precise movements, fighters are able to use their opponent’s strength against them – relying on positioning, balance, and momentum rather than brute force.
Japanese samurais were some of the first to use jiu jitsu in this way. When they got knocked off their horse and found themselves on the ground without a weapon, they used the techniques they’d developed to quickly and efficiently dispatch their attackers.
From Japanese battlefields to modern gyms, jiu jitsu is still considered one of the best martial arts for self defence. And Brazilian jiu jitsu ups the ante, giving practitioners even more techniques to protect themselves.
Why Brazilian jiu jitsu is one of the best martial arts for self defence
Fast progress
Students generally make fast progress with BJJ, and should be able to perform basic grappling techniques within a few weeks. This immediately gives you the edge over an untrained opponent which, in turn, will boost your confidence and motivate you to add to your knowledge.
Power on the ground
If you’re surprised by an attacker, you may well find yourself on the ground. Far from being helpless in that position, a BJJ-trained fighter is in her element on the floor. This is where all those grappling techniques really shine, giving you the ability to wrestle back control.
Get comfortable with fighting
BJJ classes involve a lot of live sparring. If you’re intimidated at the thought of going one-to-one with an opponent, a supportive class environment is a great way to get over that fear.
At our studio, you’ll only start sparring once you’ve attended classes for at least six months. Once you’ve got that experience, our coaches will partner you up and get you comfortable facing off with another fighter so you’ll be better able to keep your cool and remember your training if the worst happens.
Control, not conflict
Brazilian jiu jitsu is a contact sport, but it’s not about beating your opponent into submission. This fighting style is all about control – overpowering and subduing your attacker rather than injuring them. If you’re attacked, you’ll be able to restrain your attacker and keep them contained until help arrives. And if you do need to use more force, BJJ coaches can show you how to finish fights with joint breaks and chokes/strangulations.
Reduce risk of injury
Many martial arts use strikes to weaken opponents. This may end a fight quicker, but if you’re lashing out, you can just as easily hurt yourself as your attacker, especially when facing off against someone bigger and stronger. BJJ is a more subtle way to fight, effectively neutralizing a situation without the need for throwing punches.
Learn how to disarm
In a Brazilian jiu jitsu self defence class, you don’t just learn how to overpower an attacker. You also learn how to quickly disarm them if they’re carrying a weapon. And there’s a reason we practice wearing a gi, which is a kimono-like uniform. Your instructor will teach you how to grip your opponent’s gi and use it to get a better grip on them for a throw or a hold. Once you’ve learned that technique, you’ll be able to grab an attacker’s jacket or coat to gain advantage.
Be ready for anything with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Fights are physical, sure, but there’s a mental component you shouldn’t overlook. When learning a martial art for self defence, it’s important to think about both body and mind. Attacks come out of the blue and if you’re not mentally prepared, you’ll freeze and panic, letting all your training go to waste.
BJJ students report better focus, improved concentration, and greater situational awareness. When you learn this unique martial art, you’re learning to read your opponent and your environment so you can better react in the moment.
As you progress, you’ll gain more and more confidence with each class. It’s a powerful feeling to know that you’re in control and that your body is capable of exceeding your expectations. That mental strength and resilience will help you navigate all of life’s challenges, in or out of the gym.
Innisfil BJJ offers Brazilian jiu jitsu classes suitable for all ages and levels, covering both basic and advanced self defence techniques. Our studio offers a relaxed, welcoming environment ideal for those new to martial arts. Get in touch today to find out more or book your first session.