Cross Training For Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

By Corey Kuropas, June 23, 2016

Cross Training For BJJ…

When it comes to grappling, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the best choices for someone to choose. Offering so much, BJJ gives a very flexible and interesting view on how to grapple for competition and self defense. While BJJ offers a lot and gives many different strengths, there are weaknesses. People still hold onto the style vs style idea, which is unfortunate. There are other grappling styles that make great supplements to Jiu Jitsu and can strengthen the weak parts of the style if you cross train them. Here are some great arts to make your whole grappling game more complete…

Judo –

Judo is the art that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu actually spawned from. There were two schools of Judo, the Kosen school which BJJ heavily drew from because of the ground techniques, and the Kodokan school, which is what many people know of Judo today. Judo makes a great supplement to BJJ due to the various throwing techniques. There are over 60 throwing techniques that work like magic in gi and can also be adapted to no gi. Your ground work will become much more effective after you toss someone onto their back from a beautifully executed Judo throw.

Wrestling –

Wrestling is a good ole American sport. It has been in the school system for quite some time. There are three styles of Wrestling. Collegiate, Freestyle and Greco Roman. All three work well with Jiu Jitsu due to the controlling of positions and the takedowns. All the takedowns are definitely transferable to BJJ. Some adaptations need to be made so you don’t put yourself in a position of being caught in a choke or submission, but they transfer easy. Never scoff at Wrestling as it is a fantastic partner to BJJ.

wrestling

Sambo –

Sambo is the often forgotten about cousin in the grappling world. With BJJ and Judo so big on the international level, Sambo sadly gets left out. But make no mistake, Sambo is a killer supplement for any Jiu Jitsu fighter. Sambo is a eloquent mix of ethnic wrestling styles and Judo, but has its own identity that will vary your game. Sambo has some high intensity throws and is also known for crushing leg locks. There are many different leg locks in the style which include ankle locks, toe holds, knee bars and calf slicers. Sambo can only make your mat game stronger and give you some unorthodox ways to submit your opponent.

sambo

Staying open minded is essential if you are going to succeed in the grappling world. Being shut off from new ideas will only harm your game and impede your knowledge. Being able to take concepts and techniques from other grappling styles will make you a complete fighter on the ground. Learn as much as you can to make your own style of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practical, strong and flexible.