What is Jiu-Jitsu
Jiu-Jitsu is sport and a martial art which is very closely related to Judo. It focuses on grappling, positional control, and submission holds. Whilst we do at times train defences to strikes when we cover the self defence aspects of Jiu-Jitsu, there is not striking in our sport. All sessions include an element of sparring and practicing the techniques we teach against a resisting opponent.
What is sparring?
Sparring in Jiu-Jiutsu is looks a lot like wrestling or rough-and-tumble play. The students attempt to take their partner from a standing position to a controlled position on the ground. Once on the ground they either attempt to pin their partner down in one of a few set positions or if they are old/experienced enough, they look for a submission hold.
What is a submission hold?
A submission hold is as a joint lock or strangle hold that forces ones oppenant or sparring partner to quit – don’t worry, a coach is always on hand to stop a contest as soon as such a hold is applied.
What does tapping or tapping out mean?
To signal that you quit and that the other person has won in Jiu-Jitsu we tap two or more times on our partner. Tapping can occur if someone is in a submission hold or if they simply feel uncomfortable or stuck and want to stop sparring. All children are encouraged to practice tapping and all partners know that as soon as sometime taps, they must let go. However, in most situations a coach will stop the children sparing if they are close to getting a submission hold, just to be extra safe.
What do the children wear?
Comfortable clothes without pockets or zips is preferable – school PE kit is usually perfect for this. Whilst Jiu-Jitsu outfits (known as Kimonos or Gis) are worn in some of our schools, certainly for their first few sessions normal clothes are best.
What is Gi and No-Gi?
Gi is the name given to the outfits worn for Jiu-Jitsu competitions. Specificially BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu) Gis are used as they are more durable than karate Gis (that rip) but not as heavy as Judo Gis. They allow us to train more techniques and practice holding onto clothes that don’t easily rip. No-Gi refers to training or competing Jiu-Jitsu without a Gi and hold onto clothes is prohibited. Typically shorts and a rash vest are worn.
Where can I buy a Gi?
There are many different clothing brands for Jiu-Jitsu but often a cheaper option is to look on Vinted or Ebay – please do specifically look for a BJJ Gi as they differ from other martial arts in thickness, durability, and fit. We often suggest www.tatami.com as the best place to buy childrens Jiu-Jitsu clothing as they are often the most well stocked in the UK. We also have a wholesale account with them so it can sometimes be best to order clothes through us at EAS.