Jiu jitsu is an excellent and fun way to improve your fitness, gain self-knowledge of your body and mind and train in a large group with like-minded people. It also helps build discipline, focus and confidence.
Despite its relatively low impact on the body, Jiu Jitsu can still be effective in self-defense situations. In fact, many law enforcement agencies have added jiu jitsu to their training requirements due to its high level of control and ability to eliminate the risk of injury while controlling an opponent.
Rules of engagement in competition are very important within the art of jiu jitsu. Athletes will always bow towards the mat before they enter, and once the referee signals a fight to begin, they will both slap and bump fists as a sign of respect.
Athletes should not grab or twist their opponent’s fingers during an escape. This can cause a finger sprain, and is not allowed at the highest level of tournaments.
Submissions are common in jiu jitsu and are a powerful way to end a fight. Chokes are particularly common and can quickly deprive the victim of consciousness.
The best jiu jitsu competitors are highly-trained and skilled. They have a deep understanding of the most effective techniques in their particular styles, and know which ones are most beneficial for gaining a submission hold. This is a key reason that many world champions have achieved their success at the top of the sport.