Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is renowned for its ground-centric approach, emphasizing submissions, sweeps, and positional dominance. Yet, one aspect often deemed elusive within the realm of BJJ is the scarcity of throws. Unlike its distant cousin Judo, where throws are a fundamental aspect, BJJ practitioners often find themselves wondering about the role and significance of throws in their martial art.
The Roots of the Ground Game:
To comprehend the scarcity of throws in BJJ, it's crucial to delve into the roots of the martial art. BJJ emerged as an adaptation of Judo, with a primary focus on ground fighting. The art was refined to empower a smaller, physically weaker individual to defend themselves effectively against a larger adversary. Consequently, BJJ's emphasis shifted toward groundwork, leading to the evolution of intricate guard systems, submissions, and positional control.
The Judo-BJJ Divergence:
While both Judo and BJJ share a common lineage, they have diverged in their primary
objectives. Judo places a strong emphasis on standing techniques and throws, with the goal of quickly subduing an opponent. In contrast, BJJ prioritizes ground control and submissions, encouraging practitioners to navigate intricate positions and submissions.
The Role of Pulling Guard:
One prevalent trend contributing to the lack of throws in BJJ is the common strategy of pulling guard. BJJ practitioners often opt to start a match from a seated or lying position, aiming to entice their opponent into their guard. This strategic choice minimizes the emphasis on throws and redirects the focus towards sweeps and submission setups.
Throwing in a Grounded World:
In the contemporary landscape of BJJ, throws might be overshadowed, but they are far from obsolete. Some BJJ practitioners incorporate Judo techniques, adapting throws to work seamlessly within the context of their ground-focused game. This blending of arts enriches the practitioner's arsenal, providing alternatives to traditional guard pulling.
The Benefits of Throws in BJJ:
Although throws may not be as ubiquitous in BJJ, their integration offers distinct advantages. Throws can lead to immediate point advantages, place the opponent in compromised positions, and set the stage for successful ground control. Additionally, a well-executed throw can be a powerful psychological tool, disrupting an opponent's rhythm and instilling a sense of control.
Conclusion:
In the tapestry of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, throws might occupy a smaller space, but their significance and potential impact remain undeniable. Understanding the roots, the evolution, and the strategic choices that led to this emphasis on groundwork enriches our appreciation for the nuanced dynamics of BJJ. As the art continues to evolve, practitioners have the opportunity to explore and integrate throws, adding depth and versatility to their grappling arsenal.
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The Mario Sperry Jiu-Jitsu of Ohio family remains dedicated to delivering old school Jiu Jitsu to the Boardman / Canfield / Youngstown Area. Our Canfield, OH facility is open to all newcomers of all ages. We look forward to training with you!
Michael Chiovitti
Head Trainer & Co-founder
Mario Sperry Jiu-Jitsu of Ohio
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