Why training in jiu-jitsu is good for you!

Brazilian Jiu-jitsu or Jiujitsu is a grappling based martial art/self defence system which was developed out of Judo in Japan. It was modified by Helio Gracie in Brazil and popularised around the world through his legendary Gracie family.

So what makes BJJ different from others you may ask, the reason why BJJ is so unique from other grappling styles is that it accepts fighting off your back on the ground. Using your hands and legs in synchronised fashion as lethal weapons, you can launch a multitude of attacks in form of joint locks and chokeholds to baffle and neutralise the attacker on top.

This mere fact coupled with the fact that a staggering number of street scuffles or fights tends to end up with someone on the ground makes it a must know for survival.

Another big USP of Jiujitsu is that through it’s usage of physics backed principles of leverage, you can manoeuvre and overcome a disparity in size and strength. This makes it very appealing to people of smaller size, older age to withstand and repel stronger, powerful and younger opponents. It is akin to playing chess with people who don’t even know the rules.

Finally Jiujitsu is not only a great sport for physical fitness due to its endurance heavy nature but it also builds mental toughness as the learning curve is arguably steeper than any other martial arts. You’re constantly being put under heavy pressure situations where you need to stay calm and engage in decision making. This develops a fighting spirit which can definitely spill into other aspects of your life and affect you positively. The fun part is learning to submit people using a variety of joint locks and choke holds relying on the limits of human anatomy. Ofcourse all of this is done under supervision and a safe word. You can tap verbally or physically on your training partner indicating you give up when you know a position is inescapable.

To sum it up, BJJ is a fascinating martial art and a great self defence system and a sport that if you’re not careful might just get you addicted!

By Peeyush Pandey