When you have a career in law enforcement, your life is put on the line every day, and the possibility of a situation turning into the worst case scenario is always present. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that many men and women in uniform are swapping gun belts and bulletproof vests for gis and hitting the mat to train the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
While most martial arts make the claim of being the ultimate form of self-defense, BJJ is one of the lonely few that can actually prove itself.
Time and time again, it has saved lives and empowered individuals in bad situations, when things have gone from bad to worse.
Arguably, Jiu Jitsu has had some of its greatest success in the realm of law enforcement.
Officers of all kinds, from Army Rangers and government agents, including state and local police officers, have begun to implement some form of the Gracie’s unique ground fighting system into the their regular combat training.
Takedowns, holds, chokes, and locks are all among the different techniques taught to these officers. But why is BJJ so useful?
There’s a reason it’s known as the “gentle art”. Through its different holds and body positions, officers are able to use Jiu Jitsu to restrain suspects or enemies without inflicting injury to either person. Many police departments that have adopted the Gracie combative systems have reported significant decreases in injuries for both officers and assailants.
BJJ also has a knack for being an equalizer. No matter how big or strong an enemy might be, through proper technique, officers are able to employ the techniques and maintain control over another person, despite any size or strength disadvantages. This attribute can quickly diffuse a situation and help keep things in check.
Of course, these are only a few short items on a long list of reasons why Jiu Jitsu is so invaluable to those who serve our nation and communities.
Like it has so many times before, BJJ continues to prove itself to be vital knowledge to anyone, officer or civilian, if they want to stay safe and protect themselves when things go wrong.
We continue to explore the use of the art in different law and military situations, if you or a friend are qualified and wish to share your stories where Jiu-Jitsu was of practical use, contact us.
