“Jiu-Jitsu puts you completely in the moment, where you must have a complete focus on finding a solution to the problem. This trains the mind to build that focus, to increase your awareness, and your capacity to solve problems,’’ says Rickson Gracie, a member of the family who originally formed the style of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. For those who don’t know what Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is, it is a form of martial arts focused on grappling and ground techniques. Sharpen Iron Academy, a school that teaches martial arts, says, “It promotes the concept that smaller and weaker people can successfully defend themselves against bigger, and stronger attackers”. It is beneficial for everyone to know self-defense, and therefore Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a great way to learn due to the multiple positive outcomes regarding confidence and technicalities.

Learning techniques from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provides development of “functional strength, cardiovascular endurance, and flexibility” according to Sharpen Iron. Apart from strengthening physical capabilities, BJJ improves mental focus, as individuals must provide focus on the details of the techniques. As claimed by the academy, “Successful techniques stimulate longer focus.” The skills learned throughout training involve strength in several different forms.

Not only do the techniques taught in Jiu-Jitsu provide the self-defense an individual needs to protect themselves, but also the confidence that is beneficial when standing up for yourself and in life in general. Sharpen Iron proudly states, “BJJ gives a child real confidence as they advance in ways to defend themselves… We teach mutual respect, and the confidence and leadership to defend those that cannot defend themselves”.

Besides confidence and self-defense, Jiu-Jitsu can be for anyone. Whether you’re shy or outgoing, the social environment on the mat is outstanding! You get to make new friends and meet new people from different cultures. “The staff and students in a martial arts gym are like a family, there’s nothing else like it,” says Orlando, student of Sharpen Iron. “… it’s more fun to work out with your friends!” Sharpen Iron beams.