Jiu jitsu is an incredible martial art, that is both fun and challenging. It promotes the concept that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a larger and stronger assailant through the use of leverage and proper technique. It’s also an incredible physical workout and will develop your strength, flexibility, endurance, agility and coordination. But it’s the mental challenge that really makes jiu jitsu stand out as an elite combat sport. It trains you to think quickly “on your feet” and to remain calm and controlled when in a defensive situation.
Some of the most advanced jiu jitsu practitioners are able to control their opponents and submit them with chokes from their backs, side mount, or full mount positions. While these chokes are considered high risk, they can be very effective and often lead to unconsciousness within 3-5 seconds.
Other submissions include armlocks and guillotine chokes. These techniques put pressure on the carotid arteries in the neck and may also apply pressure to the nerve baroreceptors, which help regulate breathing. They can also cause serious damage if done incorrectly.
There are a few rules that competitors must follow to get points for their submissions in BJJ. For example, competitors can only score if they establish control for 3 seconds in the top position. Competitors are not allowed to grab their opponent’s fingers or toes as this is referred to as “malicious slamming”. Additionally, competitors cannot argue with the referee during the match or else they will receive negative points.