Request more information
|
| ||
Our most frequently asked question:
What is Jiu-Jitsu?
|
Quite simply, traditional Japanese jiu-jitsu (pronounced "jew-jit-sew") is a combination of all the Japanese arts: judo (throws), aikido (the principle of energy to maximize throws & takedowns), grappling (submission wrestling), karate (striking with punches, kicks, and blocks), Kobudo (traditional Okinawa weaponry) and of course this is all taught in self-defence strategy. Primarily, it will teach the fundamentals of one's own body as well as how to defend an attack from any position.
|
|
Everyone can benefit greatly from Japanese jiu-jitsu because it is all encompassing, promotes incredible awareness of space, self & others. It teaches self-discipline and will increase focus and coordination. It is an independent sport and art that will encourage you to face your physical challenges. Being in a class environment also means to learn respect for students and teacher and listening to the guidance of those that "have gone before." Humility is also the foundation of this philosophical teaching.
"So then what is BJJ, or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?"
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or BJJ, is the grappling & submission part of the traditional Japanese system. The Gracie family in Brazil, a family that has kept their long-standing techniques a secret for many years, have perfected and evolved it into a "physical chess match" around 60 years ago. It's most recent explosion into the Mixed Martial Arts scene has given fighters a competitive edge when striking is not effective. Because of its popularity for low-impact anaerobic exercise, it is highly sought after by people of all ages. It develops the mind and body into a creative process that maximizes efficiency, proper breathing, and longevity for useful skill even in a self-defence scenario. BJJ is very popular as a competitive sport and is extremely effective for smaller people in self-defence. BJJ is incorporated in our program.
"Is MMA dangerous and violent?"
Even if you're not tuned in to Mixed Martial Arts (or MMA), you will see an incredible presence of its popularity on TV and Internet all over the world, and it has evolved tremendously. As far as Warrior Arts Academy is concerned, MMA is no more dangerous than football, boxing, rugby, or hockey, and would even say it is safer than these popular sports. It is a contact sport that involves all martial arts. To us, it is basically the "sport" or competitive version of the Japanese Jiu-Jitsu system and is highly effective in body conditioning, personal development, and self-defence knowledge. With a good coach, there should be no reason why you should be afraid of being hurt in this program since it is very much an introduction to all arts at once, hence the term "mixed martial arts." Body awareness is key to practicing this sport and will always start with the basics. As you learn about yourself, you will evolve and learn to get to the next level. It's a natural progression like any other sport.
Written by Monica Whitehead, Jiu-jitsu Black belt and Sensei at Warrior Arts Academy
