Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the Benefits it Brings
If you've heard of MMA no doubt you've heard of, or at least seen, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The South American martial art gained a great deal of popularity after a number of fighters saw its effectiveness against other proffessional fighters. It's popularity is well earned; the style focuses on manipulating and submitting an opponents body without relying on strength so much as pressure points and joint locks. This makes Jiu-Jitsu a valuable martial art for men and women of all strengths and sizes. At Seung-Ni Martial Arts Academy in Traverse City, the instructors make sure learning the art of Jiu-Jitsu is worthwhile and enjoyable.
When Helios Gracie began learning Jiu-Jitsu he found himself unable to do many moves that involved direct opposition to the opponent's strength. Therefore, he adapted the art to focus less on overpowering and more on outmanuevering. This change openend the art up to many. Oftentimes people will toss out the line that "X amount of fights end up on the ground." Though the exact number is arguable, the fact is that fights end up going to the ground. Without knowledge of ground work, the larger combatant has the advantage. Jiu-Jitsu helps to nulliy this advantage, making a smaller and/or weaker combatant much more likely to end up the victor in an engagement that hits the pavement.
Jiu-Jitsu gaining popularity brings a wide variety of learners to places where it is taught. During a typical class Brown Belt instructor Mike Opper can be found teaching a student who may be a mother or high school student to a police officer or MMA fighter. In many other places this arrangement may seem odd but to a student practicing "jits" it is commonplace. Each class promises to provide a learning experience as well as a good time; each student can be seen eagerly watching as the instructors demonstrate and explain a move and then smiling as they practice with each other.
If you or someone you know in the Northern Michigan area is interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu or other martial art classes please call Seung-Ni Traverse City at (231) 932-4300 or visit us at seungnitc.com
