When it comes to the art of self-defense, you can take any number of courses. There are several available from which to choose. Among the most popular are Karate, Judo and Jiu Jitsu. Yet, in the last 20 years, a more recent form of self-defense has begun to make its presence. This is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Gi Patches representing this art are becoming familiar among those who attend BJJ tournaments.
What is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?
Brazilian jiu-jitsu is generally shortened to BJJ. It is a style of martial arts and also acts as a means of self-defense. In addition, BJJ is a recognized sport. Its roots lie in Kodokan Judo ground fighting (Ne-Waza). In the capable hands of Carlos and Hélio Gracie, the basics behind this particular form of Judo and Jiu Jitsu evolved over the past two decades to create a distinct form of martial arts.
What it Involves
Behind BJJ is its emphasis and impetus on the ability of someone smaller in stature and considerably weaker in strength to submit an opponent who is stronger and larger. The individual relies on leverage as well as other appropriate techniques to defeat the opponent. This is fighting on the ground in which chokeholds, joint-locks, arm bars and other measures allow the defender to defeat the attacker.
Why Take BJJ?
It may seem like “just-another-system” but BJJ offers several advantages for those who decide to take it up. In Brazilian jiu jitsu gi patches are an expression of self-respect and pride in what the sport has become. Practitioners give many reasons why they take BJJ. Among the most common are the following:
1. Not Dependent on Stature and Strength: You do not have to be large, tall or strong to be able to excel in BJJ
2. Versatility: BJJ is not only a means of self-defense. It is a sport
3. Tournaments and Competitions: BJJ appears in both grappling tournaments and mixed martial arts (MMA) competitions
4. Live Drilling: Full-out sparring is part of regular training
5. Fitness: BJJ promotes physical fitness. As such it can be used to help people of all ages regain and retain
6. Do (Way of Life): Like many martial arts, BJJ is not solely about the physical, it is a way of life. It is a means of integrating self-respect, respect, honor, commitment and character into one’s life style
7. Mind-Body Awareness: BJJ helps you discover, even if it is only in terms of facing an opponent, how to co-ordinate your mind and your body
8. Applicability to other practices: BJJ has certain moves that can be incorporated into other mind-body practices e.g. Yoga
9. Expansive and Fun: Learning martial arts can be fun. It is also a means of expanding your knowledge, even extending it beyond your usual comfort zone
As you can see, you have nine good reasons to take Brazilian jiu jitsu. Gi patches aside, this is an excellent way to help you keep in shape, learn to defend yourself and have fun. While you can attend tournaments to compete and test your BJJ skills, you can also use it solely for helping create the life you want – safe, secure, healthy and with your mind and body in harmony.
If you are studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, visit our site. If you intend to compete or are simply proud of your accomplishment and your academy, you will need Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi Patches. Contact us at our online store. At BJJ Patches, we can provide you with a wide selection as well as custom make to suit your needs.
