Judo

Judo comes to us from the fighting system of feudal Japan. Founded in 1882 by Dr. Jigoro Kano, Judo is a refinement of the ancient martial art of jiu jitsu. Dr. Kano studied these ancient forms and integrated what he considered to be the best of their techniques into what is now the modern sport of Judo.

Judo was introduced into the Olympic Games in 1964 and is practiced by millions of people throughout the world today. It is best known for its spectacular throwing techniques but also involves considerable grappling on the ground utilizing specialized pins, control holds, arm locks, and Judo choking techniques. Judo emphasizes safety, and full physical activity for top conditioning.

Judo develops self-discipline and respect for oneself and others and provides the means for learning self-confidence, concentration, and leadership skills, as well as physical coordination, power, and flexibility.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) emphasizes ground fighting techniques and submission holds involving joint locks and choke holds. It promotes the principle that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend themselves against a bigger, stronger opponent using leverage and proper technique. BJJ focuses on taking the fight to the ground. Once the opponent is on the ground, a number of manoeuvres (and counter manoeuvres) are available to manipulate the opponent into a suitable position for the application of a submission technique.

The constant countering and re-countering of positions gives BJJ its free-flowing form. Achieving a dominant position on the ground is one of the primary strategies of the bjj style, and includes effective use of guard position to defend oneself from the bottom. Submissions are typically broken down into two types, joint-locks and chokeholds.