What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a non-striking combat sport which is largely contested on the ground. It encompasses elements of both Judo and Wrestling as a means to takedown or sweep one’s opponent. It applies the principles of kuzushi (off-balancing), angles, timing, pressure and control to achieve the submission of one’s opponent.  Submission can occur from joint-locks, strangles or chokes. 

 

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is divided into two styles, where rulesets and techniques differ: 

• In Gi jiu jitsu, participants make use of the gi (kimono); the fabric can be gripped to apply various techniques including strangles (as in Judo).  
• In No-Gi jiu jitsu, gripping the material is not allowed, and there is considerably less friction; as such, No-Gi is often faster-paced, incorporates more Olympic Wrestling-style techniques, and allows more submissions (notably leg-locks) in certain rulesets.   

Class Structure 

Each class will open with a warm-up based on stand-up techniques relevant to the style (Judo for Gi classes and Wrestling for No-Gi). Warm-ups will also include basic Grappling Gymnastics (including different ways to safely break-fall).  

 

After warming up, the main technique will be taught. Techniques will follow a theme which progresses in each class over a period of several weeks. After learning new technique, we enter the pressure-testing phase of the class where techniques are tested with realistic reactions.  

 

Positional sparring will follow, where sparring commences from set positions and re-sets after an objective has been achieved. Finally, full sparring will take place where participants can test their skills in a safe environment.