Can An Armbar Help In Self Defense?

brazilian jiu jitsu portland

Brazilian jujitsu is known for several extremely effective self-defense techniques. BJJ techniques like triangle chokes, lapel chokes and sleeve chokes can all save your life. There is one technique, however, that is almost synonymous with Brazilian jujitsu: the armbar. The armbar is one of the most fundamental techniques of this BJJ. There are different ways… Read more »

The Cross: Your Power Punch

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Cross punches derive their name from the fact that you have to cross the striking hand from one side of your body to the other in order to strike. This is a strong striking technique, and it’s power is gained from the long wind up and the hip rotation, adding momentum and body weight to… Read more »

Why Compete in BJJ?

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5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Competition If you’ve been training Brazilian jujitsu for any extended period of time then you know how important it is to spar against other students. Sparring allows you to see what really works for you and what you might need to work on. Another great way… Read more »

The Backhand as a Surprise Move in Kickboxing

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The backhand is among one of my favorite light striking techniques. It’s speed is similar to that of a jab, but it’s novel angle of approach means it is hard to block. Even should an opponent manage to block your basic backhand, it leaves them wide open for a follow up attack. I’ll explain more… Read more »

5 BJJ Techniques for Self-Defense

Guillotine Choke

It’s no secret that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the most effective martial arts for self-defense that you will find. While other martial arts may offer plenty of value, we believe that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gives you the best opportunity to learn how to protect yourself from attackers. Here is a list of 5… Read more »

The Jab: Multi-Purpose

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The jab is a light striking technique, and is often used in conjunction with a follow up strong strike. Many light jabs can be used to probe an opponent’s defense, or to cause them to lower their guard in another area, making an opening for your next strike. Since it is a staple technique, let… Read more »

BJJ for Self-Defense

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Portland

4 Reasons Why You Should Consider Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for Self Defense Over the past 10 to 15 years, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has become one of the most popular martial arts in the United States and this is in no small part due to its use in popular mixed martial arts competitions. However, Brazilian Jiu… Read more »

Putting the “Boxing” in Kickboxing

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Hand strikes can take on many forms, including both open and closed hand techniques. The best strike is the one that works, and nothing works better for most fights than a classic punch. Kickboxing techniques derive many of their hand strikes from, you guessed it, boxing. It’s a great sport to be sure, but boxing… Read more »