Watch the latest Ultimate Fighting event or attend a local mixed martial arts match and you’re going to hear about the power of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It’s become a staple of those sports because of the absolute effectiveness it has against those who do not learn it. However, if this is your primary exposure to such arts, it’s easy to understand why you may think training BJJ would be a violent endeavor. Because of this, “Is this violent”, is one of the top questions we get about Jiu-Jitsu training in Cuyahoga Falls.
In my time teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the Akron area and beyond, I have had many people express concerns about the potential for violent training. This goes for the Kids Martial Arts as well. After all, parents and adults don’t want injuries. They are usually seeking out martial arts training for the exact opposite effect. They want to get healthy and relieve stress. They want their kids to learn about healthy habits, respect, and discipline. Injuries and violence are usually counter to those goals.
So, is BJJ violent?
Well, the truest answer is, “It depends.” If your goal is to get in the octagon and take on opponents in Mixed Martial Arts, then yes…it is violent. There would be striking, and knockouts and blood involved. If your primary goal is competitions, then the violence would be a little less, but a high level of aggression would certainly be involved.
With that said, the vast majority of people who train BJJ are just normal, well-adjusted adults and kids that just want a hardcore workout and to relieve stress. They want to learn a skill with their workout. For those people, the level of violence in BJJ training is almost non-existent. In fact, most of the training is fun, and you are surrounded by like-minded individuals who just want to help you get more skilled and reach your goals.
Even the fighters and competitors love to help out new members. They all know that it’s better to help new members get better. They understand the difference between training in the academy vs getting in the ring and fighting. In fact, they are often some of the best people to train with. This is because they have a high degree of confidence and little ego.
So, for most people, the real answer is , no! No, BJJ training is not violent. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. The training is challenging. It teaches you the discipline necessary to get better at things. It teaches you about yourself and is one of the best stress relievers. In fact, many BJJ practitioners often say it’s amazing and just good for the soul.
If you ever have the chance, make sure to stop into a BJJ academy and see what it’s all about. But be warned…It’s one of the most addictive “hobbies” you’ll ever undertake!
See you on the mats!
Bill Jones is the owner and head instructor of Top Level Martial Arts in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. They specialize in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Martial Arts in the Akron area, Ohio.
