What to expect when your child starts BJJ in Severna Park

Kids Jiu Jitsu Severna Park MD
Kids Jiu Jitsu Severna Park MD

What is BJJ and how does it differ from other martial arts

BJJ is a self-defense martial art and sport from Brazil. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on ground fighting with the aim of controlling, restraining, or injuring an opponent by using joint locks and/or chokeholds.

Unlike other forms of martial arts, BJJ doesn’t care about kicking or punching during a fight. You can have very little upper body strength as long as your technique is good. Also unlike other martial arts, in most BJJ competitions you cannot win while standing up; you need to take your opponent to the ground first for victory.

Bjj is different from other martial arts because it focuses on both self-defense and sport. Many other forms of martial arts focus only on competition or self-defense, but not both, and many are not effective in a real-world scenario.

What are the benefits of training in BJJ as opposed to other forms of martial arts or sports?

Martial arts are great for kids and teens because it gives them a physical outlet for their energy, gives them a skill set they can apply to other sports and helps build confidence. Many parents worry that martial arts will teach violence or put their child in danger (this isn’t true at all), studies have shown that children and adults that train in martial arts are far less likely to be in harms way and typically defuse a situation before it gets out of control as they have the confidence to handle what is in front of them.

Bjj is also great for adults; it’s something you can continue doing long after you stop competing in high school/college sports and the benefits of training far outweighs any negatives.

What are some of the benefits of BJJ over other forms of martial arts

Bjj doesn’t have a lot of bad habits. For example, tae kwon do requires you to look up when doing a hand technique which is fine for competition but it can be bad for everyday life or self-defense. In BJJ you learn how to control the human body in such a way that you can safely restrain someone with confidence and effectiveness.

Gymnastics-based martial arts require a lot of specific equipment and space (which isn’t always available). BJJ all you need is an open mat space. You can also easily travel with BJJ; if you’re on vacation (or business) you can train at any gym that offers jiu-jitsu classes.

What should I expect from my child’s first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class

Expect your child to be sweating, tired and thirsty (if they’re not then they probably did nothing). You should also check in with your instructor about what your child should bring. Some gyms suggest mouth guards; some have uniforms that you can purchase.

What will my child need?

They’ll need a gi/BJJ uniform and lots of water for sure! Many gyms provide free gis but some don’t. Be sure to ask the instructor, especially if you’re visiting a gym for the first time. Your child may also need athletic shoes and of course mouth guards/headgear if your school requires it (though many do not).

When can my child start competing?

This varies from person to person so just ask your instructor about when you can start competing! Some schools have kids compete in tournaments as young as 4 or 5 years old but make sure this is something your child wants to before putting them on a competition team.

If you have any questions about any of our Severna Park Jiu Jitsu classes, feel free to contact us!