What benefits will I receive from studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? (top)

· Creative Expression
· Increased Muscle Tone
· Rapidly Reduce Bodyfat
· Intense Abdominal Workout
· Increased Self Confidence
· Excellent Cardiovascular Conditioning
· Supreme Stress Reducer

What does "Jiu-Jitsu" mean? (top)

Jiu-Jitsu translates as, "the gentle art." Jiu Jitsu is the gentle art because of the control an individual has through learning its techniques and their correct application.

By using submission techniques (chokes, wrist locks, arm locks, leg locks etc.) Jiu Jitsu has a greater degree of control than a person who tries to control other through striking methods. In addition, Jiu Jitsu utilizes leverage and balance rather than force and strength.

Why train at Fusion Academy? (top)

Fusion Academy teaches Self Defense, Jiu Jitsu, Wrestling and No Holds Barred training. Learning practical Self Defense at Fusion Academy is our highest goal. Our Self Defense curriculum teaches real life, results oriented approaches specifically tailored to law enforcement, women's rape prevention and general self defense techniques that are simple to learn and use.

Fusion Academy also offers a full Olympic Weight Center featuring HammerStrength, and Life Fitness equipment, a huge assortment of free weights, full Cardio Center featuring Life Fitness and Tectrix equipment.

In addition we are equipped with a Full Kitchen, Showers, Locker Room, Washer and Dryer and Lounge area with Thai TV. Just bring bedding, and anything else that you require. Also on site is a full service coffee shop.

Why do you wear a Gi/Kimono? (top)

At Fusion Academy we train Gi and No-Gi. Using the Gi allows three advantages.

1. Wearing the Gi slows down the grappling game. This provides individuals who grapple with larger opponents an equalizer and safety buffer to execute techniques and better their grappling game without risk of serious injury.

2. The Gi is also a teaching tool to assist in the development of refined technical prowess. As Jiu Jitsu is based on leverage, balance and positioning, the Gi is an ideal platform to cultivate these principles and progress in the art of Jiu Jitsu.

3. The Gi also allows an instructor to teach the proper procedure to for choke techniques. People wear thick sweatshirts, jackets, coats etc. These types of clothing are ideal to use for effective choke submissions.

In contrast, Jiu Jitsu without the Gi gives more freedom of movement and motion.

What do I wear to my introductory lesson? (top)

Shorts and a T-shirt is fine to wear to your first class. And when we have our no-gi training, you can still wear your shorts and a T-shirt.

Do I need to be very big or very strong? (top)

No. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches individuals despite strength or size to utilize principles of leverage that will assist them in defending against or defeating a larger opponent. In addition, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu's techniques were refined and modernized by Master Helio Gracie who weighed no more than 145 lbs. In fact, stronger people generally have the hardest time learning Jiu Jitsu because it's philosophy is far more technically oriented with less emphasis on muscle and brute force as foundational aspects of the art. And the results for focusing on technique is the feeling of grappling "water." This is Jiu Jitsu at it's highest level.

Today because of Professor Helio Gracie's introduction of Gracie Jiu Jitsu and it's supreme techniques, his grappling method is world renowned and appreciated by thousands of students all over the world.

Can I learn Jiu Jitsu from books and instructional videos/DVD's? (top)

Instructionals cannot offer the individual attention or technical correction a teacher or qualified instructor provides through personal instruction. Nontheless, instructionals will give students technical building blocks to better their skill level. In the same vein one cannot properly learn how to swim in the sand; Neither can a student learn the subtle nuances, basic application or receive the personal attention and coaching through a DVD or video. Jiu Jitsu is learned through doing. Just Train!

What if I've never done Jiu-Jitsu Before? (top)

We encourage people from all cultures and backgrounds to experience Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Jiu Jitsu has already been taught and embraced by many people from many different nationalities around the globe. Jiu-Jitsu has people of all physical abilities and sizes who love learning this extremely effective martial art. In addition, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the fastest growing martial arts in the world.

How long does it take to earn my black belt? (top)

Usually between 6-9 years.

Why does Jiu-Jitsu focus on ground fighting? (top)

Jiu Jitsu does not focus solely on ground fighting. This myth was perpetuated by the popular Ultimate Fighting Championship in the early 1990's when people saw Royce Gracie defeating people using ground submission techniques. But, this is only one aspect of Jiu Jitsu.

Historically, Jiu Jitsu's inception is said to have begun in Japan around the twelfth centry AD. It's outstanding self defense arsenal includes weapons retention, escapes from bear hugs, lapel grabs, wrist grabs, defense against kicks, defense against chokes etc. Also, Jiu Jitsu always prepares its fighters for a physically superior opponent, someone much bigger and stronger.Engaging in stand-up striking with a larger, stronger opponent is very dangerous even if the smaller opponent has greater technical skill. But a ground fighting situation is the absolute equalizer. It offers a physically weaker opponent who has superior technique and leverage skills a much stronger likelihood of defeating the larger opponent despite the strength difference.

It has been proven time and again that if you don't have ground submission skills or general ground fighting familiarity, your fighting arsenal is deficient

Is Jiu Jitsu the best martial art? (top)

There isn't any one "Superior" martial art. Each art has diffent aspects that appeal to different people. Yet, Jiu Jitsu has proven itself to be a very popular martial art that men, women and children can enjoy learning and use in real-life situations.

Jiu Jitsu is an effective martial art for ground situations and it's many competitors have done well in MMA (mixed martial arts) matches and no-rules challenge matches. Overall Jiu Jitsu provides control to it's users through control/submission techniques. Jiu Jitsu's techniques are now being used throughout the world in the military, law enforcement, kid safe courses and corporate wellness programs.

What is the belt system in Jiu-Jitsu? (top)

Jiu Jitsu belt system: white, blue, purple, brown, black.

What are some of the physical benefits of training Jiu-Jitsu? (top)

Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best overall workouts one can do. Aerobic In addition it improves balance, coordination, cardio vascular capacity, and muscular endurance.

What will I learn in Jiu Jitsu? (top)

In a historical sense Jiu Jitsu comprised all forms of self defense. Today, Jiu Jitsu honors it's historical legacy. Our curriculum includes street aspects, sport, full contact fighting, and kids training.

Is Jiu-Jitsu good for Cross-Training? (top)

Absolutely. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers tremendous cross-training benefits emphasizing aerobic and anaerobic conditioning. The Result: An enjoyable workout for women, men and children regardless of athletic ability.