07 Jul The Real Jiu Jitsu
The other day, during my 4:45 Kids class I asked my kids a simple question: “What is the Real Jiu Jitsu”
The kids class that I teach, BullyProof, Jr. Grapplers consists of all the techniques the kids would want to know while defending themselves from the most common attacks in a real situation. We do monthly Character building chapters. We talk about Respect, Helpfulness, Health, Focus, avoiding fights, and dealing with bullies. We have a lot of kids in our school. Just 3 years ago, we started our first kids class with a few of our fathers’ kids, Samson and Julian and Charlie. The kids class quickly snowballed and we had quite a few kids. We did notice that some of the kids learned, processed and progressed a lot quicker than the others. While some of the kids were very athletic, and natural competitors, others were a little less co-ordinated and aggressive. I began seeking out the best programs and teaching methodologies out there in the world of Jiu Jitsu. I looked at a few specific martial arts games and Jiu Jitsu courses, and looked at the most successful schools. At first all I found was in-school programs which taught kids to be more aggressive, learn to chase point fighting techniques and encouraged them to become stronger, faster and more intense with their training.
Eventually we came across Gracie BullyProof. We noticed that it had been profiled on CNN and Oprah, and had a few lessons available for viewing on their website, GracieKids.com. We took a look at the quality of the lessons and it was impressive. I personally contacted the Gracie Academy and this was the beginning of a inspiring partnership. Over the past three years I have worked closely with the Gracie Academy implementing many of their teaching methodologies which have helped them help their students for the last 85 years.
The other day, during class I decided to ask the kids what the real Jiu Jitsu is, I was so happy with the results, I decided to write down their answers and make a blog post about it.
Some of the children said:
“Use your words, you don’t always have to use your takedowns and submissions”
“Not using a submission unless it’s really necessary”
“Something that kids can use against a bully”
“Staying calm”
“To defend yourself”
“Defending your best friend or brother or sister”
“Negotiation”
“Gentleness”
“The art of gentleness”-This is the translation of the Japanese word
“Helping other People”
“Patience”
These answers remind me why I believe they are learning the real Jiu Jitsu, life skills, and self defence. This is what I have learned from them, that they know the real Jiu Jitsu. Beyond the moves and techniques they are learning the principles and philosophical approach to make it to the top in life! Without too much comparison, it is notable that many schools do not spend much time talking about life or bullies, and I think this limits the child’s ability to process conflict and the many ways to deal with it. In fact, as good at Jiu Jitsu a child may become, if they do not recognize the correct moment to walk away, speak up for themselves, or to physically defend themselves they may be just as much a target for bullying as a child with no training or preparation on the matter. Very proud of these kids! Good times.