When you think of Jiu-Jitsu, the word gentle doesn’t usually spring to mind. However, we caught up with the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, to find out exactly what the sport entails and where the description of “the gentle art” comes from.
Tell us a little bit about the Jiu-Jitsu Federation?
The Federation plays a leading role in supporting Jiu-Jitsu and contributing to building a strong generation of UAE athletes to excel at the local and international levels. The Federation’s role is to implement policies that develop the sport in collaboration with various government entities, educational institutions and other partners in order to advance the sport locally, regionally and globally.
What age groups do you cater for?
There is no age-bar to practice Jiu-Jitsu, but starting from four is norm set by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation training center located at the Zayed Sports City’s IPIC Arena.
Is it suitable for both boys and girls?
Yes indeed. Jiu-Jitsu is practiced by both boys and girls because of the physical, mental and social benefits it provides. However, we offer mixed classes for kids and separate classes for boys and girls.
What classes do you offer throughout the year?
During summer, the training classes are scheduled daily from Sunday to Thursday. For the kids, we have two sessions from 4.30pm to 5.30pm and 5.30pm to 6.30pm from Sunday to Wednesday while on Thursday the class is scheduled at 5pm. For the adults, the classes are from 5.30pm to 6.30pm.
How often should kids attend a class?
The classes are made available daily except on Friday and Saturday. A beginner should attend at least three classes a week.
What are the benefits of doing Jiu-jitsu?
There are many benefits. Some include:
Physical benefits:
Jiu-Jitsu promotes greater strength, flexibility, agility, stamina and weight-loss. It reduces cholesterol levels and builds a stronger heart. It provides greater control of muscular and cardio-vascular health and improves blood circulation and reduces blood pressure.
Mental and emotional benefits:
Jiu-Jitsu builds self-confidence and personality, and it teaches patience and composure. It enhances the ability to maintain concentration for long periods and promotes willpower, perseverance, hard work and commitment
Social benefits:
Jiu-Jitsu teaches respect for peers and adults and builds strong spirit of camaraderie and new friendships. It maintains sportsmanship and the spirit of fairness and increases cooperation, interaction and teamwork
Can beginners attend?
We do offer daily classes for beginners from different age groups and advanced classes for those who practice Jiu-Jitsu for at least one year at IPIC Arena at the Zayed Sports City.
Is it a dangerous sport?
Jiu-Jitsu is referred to as “the gentle art” hence one of the safest martial arts to practice.
UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, Classes held at various clubs across the city including; UAE JJF Training Centre, Aljazira Sport Club, Al Ain Sport Club, Biniyas Sport Club and Aldafra Sport Club. For info visit www.uaejjf.com. (02 333 6111).
