Eastside Jiu Jitsu Values Part 2: Inclusivity
At Eastside Jiu-Jitsu, we truly believe the mantra that “Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone”. We’ve been training BJJ for over 15 years, at the Carlson Gracie Academy and in academies around the world and through that experience; we have come to understand that every person can find their place in Jiu Jitsu.
The inclusive nature of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is twofold. Firstly, it means that everyone can learn Jiu-Jitsu. Secondly, it asserts that everyone can learn through Jiu-Jitsu.
Everyone Can Learn Jiu-Jitsu
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there are no one-size-fits all techniques. While the philosophies and values of Jiu-Jitsu can be taught and used by all, no single technique will work for every person or at every time. Regardless of your weight, age or physical prowess you will need to go on a journey of learning what works for you. On the one hand, this realisation can be frustrating for new white belt. The moves you see your instructors or high-level training partners pull off may not be usable for you. However, on the other hand, this also gives light to Jiu-Jitsus true inclusivity. That being, its ability to adapt its techniques for everyone. Whether you are big or small, tall or short, young or old, flexible or stiff you can learn Jiu-Jitsu and make it your own.
Everyone can learn through Jiu-Jitsu
The lessons each person will learn through their practice or Jiu-Jitsu are even more individualised than the techniques themselves. The training philosophies of Jiu-Jiu, while on face value teach us how to move and operate in a fight; can serve to teach us much greater life lessons. For example, through learning how to escape a disadvantage position we learn how to keep calm under pressure, how to maximise our energy efficiently, how to feel comfortable in moments of distress and how to find an opening when it’s presented. The real life applications of these lessons are clear and expansive.
Each student’s ability to learn through Jiu-Jitsu gives further credence to its inclusivity. It means that even if you have no ambitions of becoming a world champion or never see yourself being a black belt Jiu-Jitsu is still for you.
At Eastside, inclusivity is one of our core-values. It pushes us to create a welcoming environment and compels us to teach the art of Jiu-Jitsu in a way that everyone can understand it, connect to it and learn through it.
