We’re Crawley’s first and only Brazilian Jiu Jitsu club and this week ran our first kids grading this week with 10 of our next generation of martial artists passing the test.
Our Kids Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes are led by Black Belt and two time European Champion, Keith McKenzie.
Nicknamed “the gentle art” – Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has a focus on skill and technique over brute force and strength. With an emphasis on grappling and ground fighting BJJ teaches students how to throw, control and submit your opponent without punching or kicking.
A new martial art, BJJ was founded in the early 2oth century and has grown exponentially largely thanks to the Ultimate Fighting Championship and its practical nature. Like many martial arts it places an emphasis on discipline and respect while the sports element allows BJJ players to put their skill and physical fitness to the test in competition.
The grading is a first for Crawley and kids and teens were required to demonstrate techniques and their practical application during an hour of sparring with other classmates and adult assistants.
Using an internationally recognised grading system BJJ sets its standards high and only has give adult belts with the coveted Black Belt taking up to 10 years to earn and in May the team will travel to Birmingham to compete in the British Open.
The Kids Brazilian Jiu JItsu Team after Grading Success