Back to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

So I went back to jiu jitsu today as part of my larger goal in the martial arts.

Actually what I do (and have done for 15 years now) is more of a martial science than an art. I belong to a very small group, at least in the western world. There are less than 20 of us in the US and maybe 7 or 8 of those hold a black belt rank in any discipline we teach. I'm told there are hundreds or thousands more in other parts of the world but in America, we're it.

Of the 7 or 8 of us who hold black belt ranks, maybe 3 still practice daily.

Our system is what we call a "living" system, meaning that the techniques/knowledge can and does change to fit the black belt. This is opposed to "dead" systems that have set techniques that are taught and must be learned exactly as they've been taught for many years. We do have some set basics that everyone learns in all 9 of the disciplines we teach, but once you reach black belt level, you begin to shape the system around yourself. You go out and find skills you believe are useful and fit them into your training if possible.

Contrary to more mainstream systems, not all of our skills involve direct combat with another person. In strategy for example, there is a lot of study on military tactics, moving teams/planning operations in tabletop excercises, etc. Long term planning is taught including supply logistics for feeding/equipping armies, political maneuvering, finance planning, etc.

There is also a skill set for survival skills like tracking, hunting, navigation, medical knowledge etc. Personally, I know a bit of herbal medicines, which veterinary medications are safe for humans, advanced knowledge of certain medical procedures, etc.

All of our skills are looked at by our instructors who tally them up in a point system and belt ranks are awarded as point thresholds are met/exceeded. That's where jiu jitsu fits into the system. I'm gathering more skills/points to advance in my original system as well as BJJ.

Over the next several days, I'll be posting detailed information on some of the more useful skills I've gathered and hopefully imparting some of my knowledge to a few of my fellow Steemians. Stay tuned...