New Fitness Trend: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

When one thinks of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or commonly known as BJJ, most minds would begin to summon images of UFC professionals grounding and pounding their way to victory. That’s a prevalent misnomer. Although it falls under the category of mixed martial arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu involves no striking or massive aerial throws and is almost entirely ground based, with the sole objective of “submitting” an opponent through various joint locks and chokes. Ironically, it is known as the “gentle art” because knowledge of its techniques flows naturally with your body movement, and against an assailant’s or competitor’s. The distinct study allows for a smaller person to defend himself against a more powerful aggressor with the tactful and artful use of holds, control and physical manipulation employing more of one’s own bodyweight rather than his or her strength.

From its Japanese origins, it was offered by Master Esai Maeda Koma to Gastao Gracie of Brazil in 1915, whose son, Carlos, honed the art form into the brilliant and ever evolving style it is today, with great emphasis on self respect, humility and camaraderie. Coming to our shores in the late 90’s, the BJJ scene has become quite the progressive one, with many legitimate schools emerging under the umbrella of the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation of the Philippines (BJJFP) and sanctioned by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF).  


What to Expect on Your First Class
Interested? There are two types of BJJ training systems. One involves the use of a “Gi”, or a “Kimono” uniform, owing to the fact that they are more form-fitting than traditional styles; and No-Gi, wherein the participant may come into class with a T-Shirt and shorts, preferably a rash guard and board shorts to allow for more mobility, and a more secure fit. Men do not need to use protective groin cups. Both methods are equally enjoyable for the enthusiast, but note that the Gi style follows the belt grading system. Beginning at white, the student progresses to blue, purple, brown and black, with three stripes in between each belt before black. Black belts go up to the 8th degree until they reach the distinguished and exclusive red belt. About ten years of mastery or more is requisite to earn a prestigious black. Unlike some disciplines that dole them out like candy, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu rankings are quite the premiere club.

 

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It’s not easy climbing up the ranks; as in most schools, it may take an average of two to three years to progress from white to blue alone. This is a testament to the dedication it takes to become genuinely proficient, and reason enough why you should begin training at a reputable and legal school. Safety and development are paramount and your promotion given only when you either have taken exams or displayed skill at competitions or during classes. It is different with every academy, although training methodology is generally the same. Expect a lengthy warm-up session involving plenty of static stretches, rolls, “break falls” (how to take a fall, which you will learn at your first class should you have no Judo or wrestling background). After this, instructors will show you various techniques which you and your training partner will take turns doing. This “drilling” allows muscle memory to take over, after which, live sparring or “rolling” takes place, with rounds typically lasting five minutes. The goal is to tap your opponent out through legal maneuvers - again, there is no striking, no eye-gouging or anything un-sportsmanlike. For beginners, no leg or ankle locks unless advised. A physical or verbal tap signals that you have been bested, or you wish to stop.  

“Leave your Ego at the Door” is the prime rule at KMA Fitness and Martial Arts Academy, run by Master Stephen Kamphuis, a rare 2nd degree black belt in BJJ, 2nd degree Judo black belt, twelve time world masters champion (among a plethora of other awards). The Philippines is extremely fortunate to have him around, as his credentials alone make him an exception. With over 35 years experience in most every fighting discipline, he is one of an elite few in the world who have earned their black belts in Brazil. He actively teaches along with other qualified instructors and is affiliated with Equipe Fabrico Brazil.  

Hailing from New Zealand, Master Stephen looks as tough as he is, but possesses the demeanor of a true gentleman. Easygoing, quick-witted and affable, he encourages all to come on in and try the great sport:

“Personally, BJJ is more stimulating than most other sports and is less injury-prone, plus the learning process is continuing and evolving.  It’s both a lifestyle and a sport.  Aside from self-defense, conditioning and flexibility, sticking with BJJ naturally allows you to adapt a healthier lifestyle. The benefits go far beyond the mat”.

 

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Master Stephen also adds that “KMA is a purpose-built gym with one focus: Martial Arts. All of our energies are put there. From 35 years experience, we teach kids and adults. This is very family-oriented, as the youngest member of my gym is only three.” KMA also boasts of members in their 50’s as well.

Everyone regardless of age or gender should try this sport, watch a class and for some added Father’s day fun, come and check out the 2011 Pan Asian Gi and No-Gi Tournament on June 18 and 19 at the SM Mall of Asia beginning at 9am.

Through this remarkable discipline, you will challenge yourself and therefore better yourself.  If you’d like to know more about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, come to a class at any of these gyms with the family or friends in tow!


KMA Fitness and Martial Arts Academy
http://www.bjjphilippines.com/kma/
LG-01/02 Wack Wack Royal Mansion, Wack Wack Rd,.Mandaluyong City
G/F Rada Regency, Rada Street Legaspi Village, Makati City
Mobile: +63917 8242420

New Breed Academy Philippines
http://newbreedphilippines.com/
Rockwell Club, Basement 2 Amorsolo Building, Rockwell Center, Makati
Mobile: +63916 4304857
Email: jdoc581@hotmail.com

B.A.M.F. Mixed Martial Arts Center
#4 Dona Irenea Avenue corner Dr. A. Santos Avenue, (Sucat Road) Ireneville BF Homes, Paranaque City
Phone: +632 3855264
Email: info@bamfmma.com

ATOS BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU
2F Blue eagle gym, Judo Dojo, Ateneo de Manila, Katipunan, Quezon City, Philippines
Mobile: +09178588230, +639178925754
alisulit@yahoo.com
Schedule:
MW 1030AM-12PM
TTH 430-630 8-930
Sat 930-1030 1030-12 open mat
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Note: BJJ Gis may be purchased at your academy or through recommended sellers.  



Photo from fotopedia.com