Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu (also known as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, or BJJ) is a martial art, combat sport, and a self-defense system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. It is widely regarded as the world’s most effective grappling art.
Jiu Jitsu promotes the principle that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend himself or herself against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique—most notably by applying joint-locks and chokeholds to defeat the other person. Jiu Jitsu can be trained for sport grappling tournaments (both gi and no-gi) and mixed martial arts (MMA) competition or self-defense. Once a student has sufficient experience, sparring (commonly referred to as “rolling”) and live drilling play a major role in training.
The best thing about BJJ is that it is really for everybody … regardless of size, age, strength, fitness level, and so on, everybody can train BJJ. Please click on each of the class options to learn a little more about what to expect in each one. We look forward to having you join us on the mats!
Industrial Strength is proud to be Portland’s affiliate of Impact Jiu Jitsu, one of the largest and most respected Jiu Jitsu academies in the Pacific Northwest. Impact Jiu Jitsu was established in 1998 and has has over a dozen Impact affiliates in Oregon (and more recent additions in Hawaii, New Mexico, and Arizona), you are sure to be welcomed with open arms wherever your travels take you!
* Our BJJ & kickboxing program is available to ages sixteen (16) and up *
Jiu Jitsu Fundamentals
We recognize that many people feel both excited and also nervous at the idea of starting Jiu Jitsu; it is with that in mind that we are happy to offer the Jiu Jitsu Fundamentals class as the perfect way to get started. This beginner-friendly class emphasizes specific movements essential to your development in Jiu Jitsu. Students learn to move efficiently and safely both on the ground as well as on their feet, transitions from standing grappling to ground work, fundamental grappling concepts, self defense skills, and basic BJJ techniques. Wearing a gi is optional in this class – so please do not let your wardrobe be a barrier to your participation.
Jiu Jitsu
In our Jiu Jitsu classes students learn how to execute and defend takedowns, escape undesirable bottom positions, perform sweeps and reversals from the bottom, advance position along the “positional hierarchy” and apply various submission holds. Sparring (often referred as “rolling”) is a major component of most classes. A gi is required for this class.
No Gi
Traditionally in BJJ training a “gi” or “kimono” is worn, however it is common to spend time training without the gi as well, hence “no gi” Jiu Jitsu. All the same principles apply, but the environment and some of the details are a bit different due to having less friction and no grips. It is highly encouraged for students to participate in both traditional gi and No Gi classes.
Jiu Jitsu Drilling
“Drilling” is a term used to describe training in a cooperative environment with the goal being to practice many repetitions of a particular technique and eventually commit it to muscle memory. During a typical drilling class the instructor will show only a small number of techniques, allowing the students lots of time to practice them. The class is usually run at a tempo that also delivers a nice aerobic fitness workout. This class is beginner friendly, however a gi is required to participate.
Kickboxing
Our kickboxing class gives students a blend of both sport martial arts and self-defense applications, plus an overall awesome workout. With a strong emphasis on the basics and building proper technique, students of all levels can participate comfortably and know they will be improving their skills and also getting into great shape. Please note that we have a couple pairs of “loaner” boxing gloves available for new students to borrow at first, however students are encouraged to get their own gloves and hand wraps as soon as possible.