Something a Little Different

I've started this blog at least four times now, and I honestly can't think of how to start a blog about Brazilian Jiu-jitzu. Yeah... that's right. Today's pick for the 25 Days of Thanksgiving blog is a Martial Arts gym. Here's the thing: we already talked about the effect holidays have on our waistlines, but obviously vitamin supplements aren't enough... you have to incorporate physical activity. What better way to do that but by learning self defense and disciplined martial arts? Cleveland Mixed Martial Arts Academy opened in Bradley Square about a month ago, and already they have large classes and full participation.

The gym offers Women's Muay Thai kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu for men, women and children at the basic and advanced levels. They also offer open mat times and private lessons.

Most people don't know what Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is, and I didn't before this gym came around. To clear up some confusion, Brazilian jiu-jitsu is a martial art and combat sport that emphasizes grappling and ground fighting. It promotes the idea that a smaller, weaker person can defend themselves against a larger person by applying joint-locks and chokeholds. Most of the submission holds feature against the joint pressure that allows a smaller person to obtain control, or disable a larger person based on positioning and manipulation of joints.

"It's all about leverage," says Jiu-jitsu instructor, Tommy Wales. Wales received a Black Belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under Renato Tavares and now teaches at the gym. He is the newest instructor and is also qualified to teach Muay Thai kickboxing and mixed martial arts. The gym invites anyone to come try a trial class for free. They are currently featuring a special introductory training rate at $60 a month for two classes a week, or unlimited training for $75 a month. Both of these offers include open gym and cardio training. Private lessons in Brazilian jiu-jitsu are $75 an hour with a Black Belt instructor.

I was a little concerned about exactly what this mixed martial arts thing was, and I wanted to get some hands-on experience to better inform the public about this martial art form. What better way to do that, but to actually DO it? Check out the video below of me learning some basic defense moves. It's not as hard as I make it look! I promise!