Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (also known as BJJ) is a sophisticated grappling system that includes throws, takedowns and submissions. It can be practiced recreationally or competitively and is a powerful system of self-defence.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu promotes the principle that a smaller weaker person can successfully defend themselves against more aggressive opponents.
People can start training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu at any age. Regular practice will encourage a high level of fitness. It also improves balance, confidence, and coordination.
How BJJ started at Phoenix SMA
Phoenix SMA started offering a weekly class to its adult Freestyle TaeKwonDo members in mid 2017. It was in 2018 that classes opened up to new members. This also extended to a weekly children’s class towards the end of that year. Today our classes are more popular than ever. They are now available up to five times a week. We offer classes for children, adults, and mixed aged/family groups.
Our club is a member of Team Paraestra. Mr Marshall’s immediate Instructor is Head Coach and owner of Basingstoke BJJ, 2nd Degree Black Belt Kevin Hall. He also runs the YouTube Channel, “The Grapple Lab”. Click on this link to check it out!
The UK Branch of Paraestra is led by Jeff “Ippon” Lawson. He is a 3rd Degree Black Belt and run Ippon Gym in Bournemouth.
The UK Team is part of Japan based Paraestra Martial Arts Communication. It was founded by legendary Yuki Nakai Sensei. Yuki Nakai Sensei, like Jeff, has a similar background in BJJ & MMA.
Phoenix SMA’s BJJ team are also known as Paraestra Southampton.
TYPES OF CLASSES
At Paraestra Southampton, we offer classes from ages 5 and above. They are separated into 3 age groups: Juniors, Teens and Adults. Some classes include either 1, 2, all age groups.
Ladies Only Classes
Our ladies class is taught by Miss Abi King on Wednesday evenings. We have seen the ladies develop and progress significantly in this class.
BELT GRADING SYSTEM
Like many martial arts, BJJ has its own belt system. As with all other styles at Phoenix SMA, there is a Junior and an Adult Ranking System (see attachment below).
For each colour belt, there 4 stripes that are earned. These are awarded during our Grading weeks.
Paraestra Southampton holds Grading Assessment weeks every 3 months for our junior members. Most that train twice per week can find themselves receiving a stripe at each Grading interval. Adults are Graded when Instructors deems them ready. Belt Promotions are generally conducted at a seminar or event.
