As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy, we see first hand every day the benefits that BJJ brings to kids over other martial arts.

Here are 5 great reasons many parents prefer their children to train Jiu-Jitsu over other martial arts: 

1. As Jiu-Jitsu is not a striking sport, the risk of injury or harm is lower. A child will not be thrown to the ground repeatedly, struck by limbs/objects or attempt to break through wooden planks. 

2. Jiu-Jitsu is grounded in self defence. As the goal is to control an opponent rather than hurt or overpower through violence, threatening situations are more likely to be dissolved than escalated. This is particularly important in the school playground, as through Jiu-Jitsu, they will first learn how to minimise the risk of being bullied, and secondly, will have the tools to physically defend themselves by controlling the bullies advances. 

3. As Jiu-Jitsu involves 1:1 training and wrestling with other kids, it’s not only great for being comfortable in other people’s spaces (and therefore not intimidated by close contact and confrontation) great for meeting and making new friends outside their circle of friends at school.

4. Kids of all shapes and sizes can excel at Jiu-Jitsu. All kids develop at different rates. In martial arts like boxing, muay thai, the physically bigger and stronger kids will dominate due to their physical advantage. In Jiu-Jitsu, it’s a more even playing field. Kids who rely on size and strength will quickly be outwitted and out performed by those who listen and apply the techniques - it’s not uncommon for girls to dominate the boys, and smaller kids to outwit and outlast the bigger ones. 

5. Jiu-Jitsu is often recommended by Occupational Therapists (OTs) and paediatricians for the improvement of gross motors skills and proprioception. Our Kids Program challenges children to move their body in different ways, which is especially important given the volume of time spent sitting and on devices these day. Through repetition, they’ll create better subconscious movement patterns and body awareness, helping to reduce injury and improve coordination.

These are just 5 of the top reasons we see every day, but there are so many more. Learn more about our Kids Program here and come visit us at our friendly local Academy in Cromer to try Jiu-Jitsu for free.