Why every parent should put their children in jiu jitsu...

Every parent wants their child to be confident, disciplined, and capable of handling challenges. While all martial arts offer valuable lessons, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu provides a unique combination of self-defense, problem-solving, physical activity, and confidence building that makes it especially beneficial for children.

All smiles while training!

Our family has always supported all martial arts, from the time we were kids watching Bruce Lee with his Jeet Kune Do, to the emergence of UFC pitting the different styles together. That moment when Royce Gracie won the UFC 1 tournament in his traditional gi, forever changed the course of martial arts. This particular moment in time showed the essence of jiu jitsu, with the right knowledge a smaller person can not only defend themselves but beat well trained practitioners who were much bigger and stronger than them. In all three fights of UFC 1, Royce Gracie was outweighed by 20 to 40 lbs. Almost 40 years later, this fact has stood the test of time consistently, that this martial arts style can be successful for the smaller person.

One of our students perfecting his arm bar break on our head coach.

For children, in particular, this can be extremely beneficial. Children learn that leverage, timing, and technique can overcome size and strength differences. Smaller and/or less athletic kids can succeed at this sport which builds confidence.

A student uses a De La Riva sweep to take down a much larger opponent.

Plus, with live practice every class, they get to put these new skills to the test. Unlike many martial arts programs that emphasize forms and choreographed movements with limited contact with other students, jiu jitsu allows them to test their skills daily in a safe, controlled environment. They learn quickly which techniques work for them naturally and are able to problem solve to fix the techniques that might not work right away. They can apply this immediately in their rolls to further rep and develop their skill.

There are a plethora of other skills they learn as well!

• Kids learn problem solving in real time. Every class requires them to think, adapt, and solve the problems presented. This develops critical thinking and decision making skills.

• Effective self defense without striking. They learn how to control and defend themselves. They learn restraint and how to de-escalate situations.

• Learn humility and respect. Every practitioner has success and set backs on the mats. Kids quickly learn that improvement comes from effort, consistency, and learning from mistakes.

• Physical activity and social interaction. In the days of AI, video games, screens everywhere and staying indoors, jiu jitsu gives a safe space to get out of the house for some much needed exercise and social interaction. This is so important for children to learn to build these social connections outside of the digital space.

Live rounds with the older students putting their skills to practice with the adults.

And what I love most about jiu jitsu....

Its inclusive for all kids!

• The smaller child who wants to feel confident.

• The kid who isn't naturally athletic.

• The child who struggles with self-confidence.

• The student who needs help with focus and discipline.

• The athlete looking for a new challenge.

Arts such as Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, Wrestling, and Muay Thai all offer tremendous benefits, and jiu jitsu might be the door that opens a love for all other martial arts as well. However, what sets Jiu-Jitsu apart is its combination of practical self-defense, live training, problem-solving, confidence building, and the ability for anyone—regardless of size or athletic ability—to be successful.

In Jiu-Jitsu, kids learn one of life's most important lessons: challenges aren't overcome by being the biggest or strongest—they're overcome by learning, adapting, and never giving up. 

If you're looking for an activity that teaches confidence, discipline, self-defense, and perseverance while helping your child stay active and build friendships, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu may be exactly what you're looking for.

We'd love to help your child begin their journey on the mats. Contact Berserkir Jiu-Jitsu to schedule a free trial class and see firsthand why so many families choose Jiu-Jitsu.