Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can be useful in certain self defence situations, but on its own it is not a complete solution for real world self defence. BJJ is highly effective in controlled one on one grappling scenarios, but real world situations often involve variables that BJJ is not designed to address.

Understanding where it fits and where it does not is important.

Why BJJ Is Often Recommended for Self Defence

BJJ teaches people how to:

• Control and escape from grabs
• Manage close range physical contact
• Remain calm while being pressured
• Deal with larger or stronger opponents

These skills are valuable, especially in situations where physical contact cannot be avoided.

Where BJJ Aligns with Real World Scenarios

BJJ is particularly useful when:

• An encounter goes to close range
• Someone is taken to the ground unexpectedly
• Controlling an individual is necessary
• Brute strength is not an option

The emphasis on leverage and positioning can give smaller individuals practical tools in specific circumstances.

Where BJJ Becomes Risky Outside the Gym

BJJ is primarily trained on the ground, under controlled conditions.

Outside the gym:

• Surfaces are hard and unpredictable
• Visibility is limited
• Multiple people may be present
• Weapons may be involved
• Staying on the ground increases vulnerability

What works safely on mats can be dangerous on concrete or in crowded environments.

The Assumption of One Opponent

Like many combat sports, BJJ assumes a single opponent who is engaged in the same activity.

In real world situations, focusing entirely on one person can expose you to:

• Interference from others
• Loss of situational awareness
• Inability to disengage quickly

Self defence prioritises awareness and mobility over prolonged control.

Why BJJ Alone Is Not a Self Defence System

BJJ does not focus on:

• Awareness and avoidance
• Managing escalation before contact
• Verbal de-escalation
• Legal responsibility around force
• Disengagement and escape strategies

These are critical components of personal safety that sit outside sport grappling.

How Arakan Integrates Grappling Into Self Defence

Arakan Martial Art recognises the value of close range skills but places them within a broader self defence framework.

Training emphasises:

• Avoiding the ground where possible
• Maintaining awareness of surroundings
• Simple responses that allow disengagement
• Control without prolonged entanglement
• Decision making under stress

Grappling exists as a tool, not a destination.

Choosing the Right Training for Your Goals

If your interest is grappling, control, or competition, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is an excellent discipline.

If your goal is personal safety in unpredictable environments, BJJ needs to be combined with self defence focused training that addresses awareness, avoidance, and broader context.

Understanding This Through Experience

The strengths and limitations of ground focused training become very clear when you experience self defence training that prioritises mobility and awareness.

A complimentary trial lesson allows you to feel how self defence focused training differs and whether it aligns with what you want to develop.