Site Logotype

Grappling / BJJ

Grappling Brisbane

What is Grappling?

Grappling is a broad term used by Progressive Martial Arts Academy to categorise the close-range arts taught here. More specifically, grappling at our Brisbane-based martial arts academy refers to a form of hand-to-hand close-quarters combat where opponents use various techniques to gain a physical advantage over their opponent without relying on striking. The use of grappling techniques is determined by the combat situation already being at close range or by the desire of the practitioner to fight at close range. The term ‘close range’ implies a number of different positions or situations, and the combination of situation and desired outcome then determines which techniques are employed. The primary objective in grappling is to control, immobilise, or submit an opponent using locks, holds, and throws rather than hitting or kicking.

Types of Grappling

The grappling arts are primarily drawn from three sources: the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu of the Machado Brothers, the grappling blend of Guro Dan Inosanto (including Filipino Dumog), and Larry Hartsell’s Jun Fan Grappling. Shoot Wrestling and Erik Paulson’s Combat Submission Wrestling techniques and skills further complement these arts. We’ll explore them below.

Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

If you’re interested in martial arts as a form of physical activity or as a method of self-defence, you may have asked yourself, ‘What exactly is Brazilian Jiu Jitisu?’ and ‘How does it differ from other martial arts?’ Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place, as we’re here to answer all of your burning BJJ-related queries!

The Machado Brothers‘ BJJ style is a popular martial art and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting and grappling. The primary goal is to gain a dominant position and employ techniques like takedowns and sweeps to force an opponent into a nonviolent submission.

Unlike other forms of martial arts, BJJ emphasises the principles of leverage, technique, timing, and pressure over physicality and brute strength to subdue an opponent. This means that, with BJJ, you don’t have to be the strongest or the largest person in the room to come out on top. Instead, it’s all about using your body strategically and efficiently to control and submit your opponent.

Grappling Blend

Jun Fan (also known as Jeet Kune Do) is a grappling blend initially developed and taught by the legendary Bruce Lee. With Wing Chun at the core of the martial art style, Jun Fan integrates techniques from other martial arts to create a practical and adaptive combat system. The nature of the hybrid martial art is efficient and streamlined, encouraging movements that are swift and directly in the line of attack.

Before he died, Lee made obvious the evolving nature of Jun Fan. He emphasised that it should be free from the restraints of traditional styles and should incorporate whatever methods were most effective for modern combat. Guro Dan Inosanto was appointed to teach at one of the three Jun Fan Gung Fu institutes beneath Bruce Lee and, following his death, became a proponent of Lee’s teachings. Today, Inosanto’s grappling blend continues to evolve, incorporating weapons and modern techniques from Filipino martial arts (also known as Kali) and Muay Thai.

Jun Fan Integrated Grappling

Another influential practitioner of Lee’s teachings was Larry Hartsell, whom Inosanto once called “one of the premier Jeet Kune Do fighters of our time.” Having trained under Lee between 1967 and 1970, Hartsell later became one of the greatest exponents of Jun Fan. Embracing Lee’s belief, under Hartsell’s guidance, this specific style of Jun Fan evolved to incorporate techniques from a combination of grappling arts, including BJJ and Judo.

Today, Hartsell’s hybrid of Jun Fan places a strong emphasis on technique and strategy over strength and power, using leverage to submit opponents. The art continues evolving and remains practical in modern combat sports and self-defence scenarios.

Shoot Wrestling & Combat Submission Wrestling

Further complementing the martial arts above are the techniques and skills of Shooto Wrestling and Erik Paulson’s Combat Submission Wrestling. The predecessor to modern-day UFC, Shooto is a popular martial art and combative sport in Japan. Shooto was founded by Sousai Satoru Sayama and brought to the US by former Shoot Wrestling champion and highest-ranking instructor under Sousai Sayama, “Shootist” Yorinaga Nakamura.

Shoot Wrestling, also called “Shooto”, “Shoot Fighting”, or “Shooting”, is a unique blend of Russian Sambo, Judo, Jujitsu, Catch-As-Catch-Can Wrestling, and Thai Boxing. Shoot Wrestling is a truly combative martial art that utilises long-range kicking, punching, kneeing, evasion, and footwork. Practitioners are allowed to throw, tackle, take down, or sweep the opponent and continue ground fighting, where practitioners can engage in submission and locking.

Combat Submission Wrestling is a modern form of grappling developed by Shooto champion Erik Paulson. It borrows techniques predominantly from Shooto, BJJ, and Judo but integrates striking elements from more dangerous styles like kickboxing and Muay Thai. Training in Shooto and Combat Submission Wrestling will develop attributes such as balance, speed, agility, coordination, endurance, and sensitivity.

Grappling Techniques and Skills

As conflicts often move to the ground, whether by choice or loss of balance, maintaining a degree of control and effectiveness in close-range and ground-based fighting is paramount. The variety of wrestling and blended arts that we provide here at PMA offers a wealth of techniques to apply while also refining the core skills and subtleties that hold true through all forms of grappling. The grappling techniques we focus on at our BJJ gym include:

  • Guard Passing
  • Guard Retention
  • Takedowns & Throws
  • Sweeps & Reversals
  • Submissions
  • Pinning
  • Escapes From Pins & Submissions

Benefits of Learning Grappling/BJJ

Now that you understand the different types of grappling and the different techniques and skills that are taught at our gym, you may be wondering why it’s growing so popular. The surge in interest can largely be attributed to its many benefits, both mental and physical. We’ll explore them more in depth below.

Enhanced Cardio Fitness & Full-Body Strength

Grappling is an exceptional workout that challenges your entire body and helps to improve both your cardiovascular endurance and muscle strength. The dynamic movements and constant need to engage your body keep your heart rate elevated, promoting cardiovascular health, while various techniques target multiple muscle groups, enhancing overall strength and conditioning.

Great Way to Learn Practical Self Defense Skills

One of the most compelling benefits of learning grappling/BJJ is its focus on practical self-defence. Unlike many martial arts emphasising striking, it teaches you how to neutralise opponents through control, leverage, and strategy. This makes it particularly effective for real-world self-defence situations, where controlling and subduing an attacker without relying on brute force is crucial.

Stress & Anxiety Reliever

Grappling requires significant concentration and focus to execute techniques effectively, drawing individuals into the present moment. This mindfulness technique helps to clear one’s mind of worries outside the dojo. Not to mention, the endorphins released during intense physical activity boost one’s mood and provide a natural way to combat stress.

Improved Personal Satisfaction & Self Fulfillment

There is nothing quite like the feeling of achieving personal goals and overcoming challenges. As you progress through our BJJ classes, you’ll set and reach new targets, improve your skills, refine your technique, and experience the satisfaction of personal growth and improvement. This sense of accomplishment is a key aspect of self-fulfilment that extends far beyond the mats.

Better Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving Skills

BJJ is often referred to as ‘human chess,’ and for good reason. It requires quick thinking, adaptation, and strategic planning. Regular practice can sharpen your mind, enhance your decision-making abilities under pressure, and boost your overall problem-solving skills.

Community & Relationship Building

When you sign up for a class at our Brisbane-based grappling and BJJ gym, you’re not just learning a martial art; you’re becoming part of a tight-knit community. At PMAA, you’ll be surrounded by a supportive network of like-minded peers and mentors who share your passion. The bonds formed here enhance the overall training experience and provide a strong sense of belonging and camaraderie that extends beyond the gym.

Grappling at Progressive Martial Arts Academy

The instructors at Progressive Martial Arts Academy work closely with and also regularly train with Master Jean Jacques Machado, Guro Dan Inosanto, and Shooto champion Erik Paulson, both here and overseas. This means you benefit from their advanced techniques and insights, ensuring you receive the most current and effective training available in martial arts and grappling.

In our Brisbane gym, we teach multiple forms of grappling, including Jun Fan, BJJ, and Combat Wrestling. You can check out our timetable for class times, types, and availability. AT PMAA, we welcome individuals of all ages and skill levels and aim to provide a supportive environment for everyone to grow and excel at their chosen martial art!

Unleash Your Inner Fighter

If you’re looking to learn grappling or BJJ in Brisbane in a fun and supportive environment, please don’t hesitate to contact us or check out our timetable for class times and availability.