KnuckleUP BJJ Head Coach Ricardo Murgel talks about Omni Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Logo Knuckle Up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Can you explain why you developed the Omni Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Curriculum for your classes here at KnuckleUp Fitness?

The martial art that is today known as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is based on Gracie Jiu Jitsu as developed by the Great Grand Master Helio Gracie. Originally Gracie Jiu Jitsu was for Self Protection and was focused on real life situations. It emphasized techniques and tactics that are most effective at extreme close distance, hand to hand combat, with also some defenses against edged weapons and firearms. The sporting element came much later.  So, among other things, Omni Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will reclaim this original heritage of Jiu Jitsu as conceived in the early days in Brazil. To put it another way, we’re going back to the founding principles of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and rescuing its essence while also updating it for the modern world.

How will Omni Jiu Jitsu achieve this?

By featuring a variety of classes designed to help anyone who wants to learn, from the merely curious to high level competitors. Instead of a one size fits all approach to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Omni Brazilian Jiu Jitsu’s specialized approach will make sure that you get the most out of your class. Classes are always tailored to your specific needs and goals and everyone is welcome. We will have our normal sport oriented classes,which have produced so many Champions, for those who want to compete. Then also,a techniques only class, which will focus much more on specific techniques and offer NO Sparring.

Are classes with no sparring less effective than the ones with Sparring?

No, they are not less effective. It is the student’s choice and depends on what they are looking for.

If a student is older, out of shape, or not physically strong which of your classes will fit him or her?

Remember that, Brazilian, Jiu Jitsu in its essence is a way for a smaller, weaker person to overcome a larger, stronger person through the use of leverage and technique. So, if you are not strong, Jiu Jitsu will make you skillful and if you are not in shape you will get in shape through the training. It’s all geared towards you.  Additionally the environment is cooperative and friendly. We are like a family here at KnuckleUp and everybody roots everybody else on.

If I just practice the classes with no sparring, can I still progress in Belts over time?

 Absolutely. The difference is that the sparring and competition students will have their evaluation more toward their performance on the mat, so to speak. While the students of the No Sparring classes only will be evaluated by tests of their knowledge of the techniques and drills required for each belt level.

 What if I can only train once or twice a week? Will it still be worthwhile for me to train Omni Jiu Jitsu?

In short: YES! Remember, Omni Jiu Jitsu will be here waiting for you.  You determine how much you will get and how much you will be able to commit, is solely up to you! Even if you’re just training from time to time you will still get many more benefits than if you don’t train at all. A little bit of our amazing martial art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, is by far better than none.