Jiu jitsu is the martial art of subduing opponents with superior leverage and positioning, rather than brute strength. It is a sport for all ages and abilities, as well as those interested in self defence or competition. It requires intense physical training that builds confidence, body-dexterity, and a deep understanding of the human body and mind. It is also a great way to stay fit, relieve stress, and meet like-minded people.
NMMA is a family-run school, under the guidance of Head Instructor and Sensei Matt Tonkin Dan 3rd degree in BJJ. We offer classes for all ages in Freestyle Ju-Jitsu, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu BJJ and Muay Thai Kickboxing. Our goal is to help students achieve their full potential both physically and mentally by training hard, having fun and building a strong community of jiu jitsu Epping.
We train with a real opponent from your first class, and the techniques you learn are tested against resistance from the start. This differs from other martial arts, which typically demonstrate techniques with a rubber dummy. This practice ensures that you are confident in the technique you are learning, and it also develops your ability to quickly problem-solve under pressure.
Unlike most forms of fighting, jiu jitsu Epping focuses on getting an opponent to the ground where they can neutralize any size or strength advantage through grappling techniques and submission holds such as chokeholds. It is a very efficient, effective and respectful form of fighting that many consider to be a ‘gentle art’ because it prioritizes control over power and violence.
The origin of jiu jitsu is debated, with some believing that it was developed by Buddhist monks in ancient India who used the art to protect themselves while travelling. Others claim that it was developed by samurai warriors to use in the event that they were disarmed and afoot, or that it was derived from judo and was adapted for ground combat by the Gracie family.
Regardless of its origin, jiu jitsu is now the world’s most popular and dominant martial art, both as a sport and for practical self-defense. As a sport, it is conducted in tournaments and matches, as well as being practiced in gyms with partners. Many practitioners of jiu jitsu also engage in striking, kicking and throwing arts, as well as grappling, to create a more diverse fighting style. It is considered to be the most complete and efficient system of unarmed combat. The Gracie family has had the most impact on contemporary jiu jitsu, although there are other families that have promoted and developed their own styles of the art.