beginner Jiu Jitsu Archives - V.O.W. Jiu-Jitsu

Basic Jiu Jitsu Terminology Every Beginner Should Know

Ryan V. — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 02:18:25 +0000

Basic Jiu Jitsu Terminology Every Beginner Should Know

Starting Jiu Jitsu can be both exciting and overwhelming. One of the first challenges you might encounter is the language used on the mats. Jiu Jitsu, like any specialized practice, has its own terminology that may seem like a foreign language at first. To help you get comfortable and confident, here’s a glossary of essential terms and phrases every beginner should know.

1. Gi

The traditional uniform worn in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), consisting of a jacket, pants, and a belt. The Gi is also used during training and competition for various grips and techniques.

2. No-Gi

A style of Jiu Jitsu that is practiced without the traditional Gi. In No-Gi, practitioners typically wear rash guards and shorts. The techniques in No-Gi rely more on controlling the opponent’s body rather than using the fabric of the Gi.

3. Tap/Tapping Out

This is how a practitioner signals submission, effectively ending the round or match. A tap can be made by physically tapping the opponent or the mat, or verbally saying “tap.” It’s an important safety measure to prevent injury.

4. Guard

A fundamental position in Jiu Jitsu where one practitioner is on their back while their opponent is between their legs. The guard is a versatile position that allows for both defensive and offensive techniques.

5. Mount

A dominant position where one practitioner sits on top of their opponent’s torso. From the mount, the top practitioner can apply various submissions or maintain control.

6. Side Control

A position where the practitioner is beside their opponent, controlling them with their bodyweight. Side control is a dominant position that allows for transitions to other positions or submission attempts.

7. Sweeps

Techniques used from the guard to reverse positions, moving the practitioner from the bottom to the top. Sweeps are an essential part of guard work.

8. Submission

A technique designed to force the opponent to submit or “tap out,” often by applying joint locks or chokeholds. Common submissions include the armbar, triangle choke, and rear-naked choke.

9. Choke

A submission technique that restricts the opponent’s airflow (air choke) or blood flow (blood choke) to induce unconsciousness or tap out. Examples include the rear-naked choke and guillotine.

10. Joint Lock

A submission that targets the opponent’s joints, such as the elbow or knee, by applying pressure in a way that causes pain or damage. Armbar and kimura are common joint locks.

11. Kimura

A specific shoulder lock submission that is applied by controlling the opponent’s wrist with both hands and using the practitioner’s body to rotate the opponent’s arm behind their back.

12. Armbar

A submission technique that hyperextends the opponent’s elbow by trapping their arm between the legs and using the hips to apply pressure.

13. Inside Position

This is the space between the hip and armpit. Occupying or denying the inside position can dictate who is in control.

14. Shrimping

A fundamental movement where the practitioner uses their hips to create space and escape from inferior positions. It’s also known as the hip escape.

15. Passing the Guard

The act of maneuvering around an opponent’s legs (guard) to establish a more dominant position like side control or mount.

16. Rolling

Jiu Jitsu’s term for sparring. During a roll, practitioners engage in a live, free-flowing practice of techniques with a partner. It’s an essential part of training to apply what you’ve learned in a controlled environment.

17. Sprawl

A defensive movement used to counter an opponent’s takedown attempt. The practitioner pushes their hips to the ground and extends their legs back to prevent being taken down.

18. Reap

A movement or technique where the practitioner uses their leg to control or off-balance the opponent’s leg, often leading to a sweep or submission. In competition, certain types of reaping can be illegal, depending on the ruleset.

19. Bridge

A movement where the practitioner arches their back to create space or escape from a bad position, such as when trapped under the mount.

20. Base

A term used to describe the stability and balance of a practitioner. Having a good base means being able to resist sweeps and maintain control over your opponent.

Understanding these basic terms is a crucial step in becoming fluent in the “language” of Jiu Jitsu. As you continue to train, you’ll encounter more advanced terminology, but these foundational words will give you a strong start.

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Why Every Kid Should Try Jiu Jitsu

Ryan V. — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 06:24:16 +0000

Why Every Kid Should Try Jiu Jitsu

As parents, we’re always looking for activities that can help our children grow into confident, strong, and well-rounded individuals. While there are countless sports and hobbies to choose from, one stands out for its unique ability to develop both physical and mental skills: Jiu Jitsu. If you’re considering an extracurricular activity for your child, here’s why Jiu Jitsu should be at the top of your list.

1. Builds Confidence and Self-Esteem

Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that empowers children by teaching them how to defend themselves in a controlled and respectful environment. As they learn new techniques and progress through the belt system, they gain a sense of accomplishment that boosts their confidence. Knowing they can handle themselves in challenging situations gives them the self-assurance to tackle obstacles both on and off the mat.

2. Teaches Respect and Discipline

In Jiu Jitsu, respect is a fundamental value. Kids learn to respect their instructors, their training partners, and themselves. The discipline required to practice and perfect techniques teaches children the importance of hard work, patience, and perseverance. These lessons extend beyond the gym, helping kids understand the value of respecting others and maintaining self-discipline.

3. Improves Physical Fitness

Jiu Jitsu is a full-body workout that enhances strength, flexibility, coordination, and cardiovascular health. Unlike some sports that focus on specific muscles, Jiu Jitsu engages the entire body, promoting balanced physical development. Kids who practice Jiu Jitsu get the exercise they need to stay healthy, all while having fun and learning valuable skills.

4. Develops Problem-Solving Skills

Jiu Jitsu is often described as a game of physical chess. Each move and technique requires thought, strategy, and quick decision-making. Kids learn to analyze situations, anticipate their opponent’s actions, and come up with effective solutions on the spot. This problem-solving aspect of Jiu Jitsu helps children develop critical thinking skills that are beneficial in school and everyday life.

5. Promotes Resilience

In Jiu Jitsu, kids quickly learn that not every match is a victory. They will get swept, pinned, and submitted. But with each challenge, they develop resilience and grit—the ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep trying until they succeed. These are crucial life skills that help children handle failure and disappointment in a healthy and constructive way.

6. Encourages Social Interaction and Teamwork

Jiu Jitsu classes provide a supportive community where kids can make new friends and learn to work as a team. Drills and sparring sessions require cooperation, communication, and mutual respect. These social interactions help children develop teamwork skills and form lasting friendships with peers who share similar interests.

7. Instills a Strong Work Ethic

Progressing in Jiu Jitsu requires dedication, consistent practice, and a strong work ethic. As kids move through the belt ranks, they learn that success is the result of effort and persistence. This understanding encourages them to approach all aspects of their lives with the same determination, whether it’s their schoolwork, chores at home, or other hobbies.

8. Provides a Safe Outlet for Energy

Children have a lot of energy, and Jiu Jitsu offers a productive and safe outlet for that energy. Instead of channeling it into less constructive activities, kids can use their energy to improve their skills, stay fit, and have fun. The structured environment of a Jiu Jitsu class ensures that they learn to use their strength responsibly and respectfully.

9. Fosters a Growth Mindset

In Jiu Jitsu, children quickly learn that mastery is a journey, not a destination. The growth mindset—believing that abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication—is a core principle in Jiu Jitsu. This mindset encourages kids to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and continue growing, both in the gym and in life.

10. It’s Fun!

At the end of the day, one of the best reasons to get your child involved in Jiu Jitsu is that it’s simply a lot of fun. The excitement of learning new techniques, the thrill of sparring, and the joy of being part of a community all contribute to an experience that keeps kids coming back for more.

Jiu Jitsu is more than just a martial art; it’s a comprehensive approach to developing your child’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether your child is shy or outgoing, athletic or just getting started, Jiu Jitsu offers something for everyone. By encouraging your child to try Jiu Jitsu, you’re giving them the opportunity to learn valuable life skills, make new friends, and have a blast in the process.

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The Importance of Inside Position in Jiu Jitsu

Ryan V. — Thu, 08 Aug 2024 05:18:46 +0000

The Importance of Inside Position in Jiu Jitsu

In the world of Jiu Jitsu, understanding and mastering positional control is crucial. One key concept that stands out is the inside position. This term refers to maintaining your limbs (arms or legs) inside your opponent’s limbs, which can give you a tactical advantage. In this blog, we will explore the importance of inside position in Jiu Jitsu, how to achieve and maintain it, and the benefits it brings to your game.

What is Inside Position?

Inside position, also known as inside control, involves placing your limbs inside your opponent’s limbs. This strategic positioning allows you to manage distance, influence your opponent’s movements, maintain positional control, and effectively set up a variety of attacks and defenses.

Why Inside Position is Important

Control
- Distance Management: Having inside position allows you to control the distance between you and your opponent. This control is crucial in both offense and defense.
- Leverage and Balance: With inside control, you can better leverage your opponent’s balance and posture, making it easier to execute sweeps, submissions, and positional advancements.
Offensive Opportunities
- Setting Up Submissions: Inside position provides a platform to initiate various submissions, such as armbars, triangles, and chokes, with greater efficiency. It is important to note that almost all control and application of submissions require some form of inside control.
- Sweeps and Reversals: From inside control, you can execute sweeps and reversals more effectively, turning defensive positions into advantageous ones.
Defensive Benefits
- Blocking Attacks: By maintaining inside control, you can block your opponent’s attempts to acquire inside control, significantly reducing their offensive capabilities. The Panda system is based around this fundamental principle. Dominating your inside position defensively allows you to move and transition without being controlled by your opponent. This allows you to get back to an offensive position without having to produce an escape.
- Escape Routes: Focusing on regaining your inside position offers better opportunities to create space and produce escapes once inside position is lost.

Drills to Enhance Inside Position

Pummeling Drills
- Objective: Develop hand fighting skills to achieve and maintain inside position.
- Execution: Partner up and practice pummeling for inside control, focusing on smooth transitions and connection.
Guard Retention Drills
- Objective: Improve your ability to retain inside position while playing guard.
- Execution: Practice guard retention drills, emphasizing keeping your legs and feet inside to block your opponent’s passes.
Positional Sparring
- Objective: Apply inside control concepts in live training.
- Execution: Engage in positional sparring, focusing on inside position from both bottom and top for all positions (Side Control, Mount, Back Mount, Guard, Standing, and Turtle)
Defensive Sparring (Panda System)
- Objective: Apply defensive inside control concepts in live training.
- Execution: Engage in positional sparring, focusing on inside position using the Panda System. See how long you can deny inside position from your opponent by only playing defensively. (Turtle, Hawking, Baby Bridge, Running man, and Panda)

Conclusion

Understanding and mastering the concept of inside position in Jiu Jitsu is fundamental to developing a well-rounded and effective game. Whether you are aiming to control your opponent, set up submissions, or defend against attacks, maintaining inside control gives you a significant advantage. By incorporating drills and techniques focused on achieving and maintaining inside position, you can enhance your overall performance and improve your skill on the mat.

Remember, consistency and practice are key. Regularly work on these concepts to make inside position an integral part of your Jiu Jitsu strategy. Embrace the journey, stay dedicated, and watch your skills grow.

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