Brazilian Jiu Jitsu:

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is primarily a ground-fighting art. Most techniques involve both fighters on the mat. There is a heavy emphasis on positional strategy, which is about which fighter is on top, and where each person's legs are. Positions are stable situations, from which a large variety of techniques are available to both fighters.

The primary positions include:

• Guard - The person applying the guard is on the bottom with his back on the ground; his legs are wrapped around his opponent's hips (who is said to be "in the guard").
• Side Control - Chest-on-chest but without the legs being entangled.
• Mount - On top of his opponent (who "is mounted"), sitting on his chest, with one leg on either side of his torso.
• Back Mount - Behind his opponent, with his feet hooked around his opponent's hips and upper thighs.

Specific techniques taught are designed either to improve one's position (for example, to "pass the guard", by going from being "in the guard" to getting around the opponent's legs, resulting in side control); or as a finishing submission. Most submissions are either chokes (cutting off the blood supply to the brain) or arm locks (hyper-extending the elbow, or twisting the shoulder).

These techniques can be trained without injury. Unlike other martial arts where striking is the primary focus you cannot train with 100% intensity due the rate of injury or just being banged up. With our course students are taught the value of position and learn when they have the submission so that they do not injure other participants.

With Brazilian Jiu Jitsu you receive several benefits. Not only physical but mental as well.

• Improved reflexes and coordination
• Improved self-image and self-esteem
• Increased energy level
• Increased self-confidence and positive attitude
• Improved appearance and muscle tone
• Greater self-discipline and a "can do" attitude
• Increased strength and stamina
• Improved concentration, work and study habits
• Better balance and body awareness
• Stress reduction and increased levels of relaxation
• Improved flexibility
• The knowledge that you are able to protect yourself and your loved ones should a life-threatening situation arise.
• Weight loss and control
• Better health and longevity