RhodyRaybo's blog

Those of you who know me know that I not only wrestle but have also been taking martial arts for the last couple years. The martial art I have been taking is a form of Russian self-defense called "Sytema". It does involve some aspects of wrestling and can very much be a good way to get your desire to "fight" out, though all too often, the drills can involve little or no wrestling-type of contact. So, it could be hit-or-miss in that aspect.

Well, recently I felt the need to move on from Systema. I still loved the concept and several of the guys who attended the class, but because of the way the class was being managed, I decided it would be best to see what else was out there. So I am writing this to those of you who may have been considering a martial arts class and let you know what I found in my search. And for those of you who merely view wrestling as foreplay, this blog may not be for you.

The first type of school I checked out was a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) about 10 minutes from my house. The class was regimented with lining up by rank and bowing and rituals regarding folding your belt similar to what they would do at my son's karate class all those years I had to drive him there. The warm-ups were do-able and the students were very welcoming. But when the drills began, I was told to go drill with the only young girl there, everyone else was guys from their 20's to 40's. I was also made to stay with her while everyone else changed partners. To say I felt uncomfortable with this is an understatement. Had the instructor let me partner up with one of the guys there, I probably would have signed up that night, but I politely informed him that I would "let him know" if I was coming back.

I also checked out another BJJ class and signed up for a free class. It too was somewhat regimented, though because of the size it was more "uniform" than ritualized. I knew I was in trouble when the instructor told us to warm up by running! Running is something I absolutely HATE doing. They after running he screamed to start tumbling, and because I had been running the tumbling brought on a muscle spasm. I had to tell him that I should probably just sit and watch. One lesson to learn, avoid schools where the "warm-ups" completely take everything out of you. The manager told me that I didn't need to do all the warmups and I could go at my own pace. But I didn't like the thought of sticking out like that. So I continued looking.

I also just observed a self defense class that sounded interesting. So I showed up and observed the class. There was a female teacher teaching six students, 3 guys, 3 gals, all looked like they were under the age of 25. I knew immediately this wasn't for me.

My next inquiry was with a Wing Chun class. I wasn't sure what to expect but the teacher was very laid back and looked like a big tough guy. So that alone had me interested. But I soon learned Wing Chun is done entirely on your feet. It's all about swinging your arms. I liked the instructor and didn't mind the class, but I knew this wasn't what I wanted to commit to. Moving on....

Next I tried a Krav Maga class, which is an Israeli form of self defense. I purchased one of those 3 class deals for 19.99. I must admit, I was impressed. The warmups were intense, but doable. The self defense techniques were hit or miss for me, but was willing to inquire further. But what got me backing away from this place after the 3 classes were over was their method of nickel-and-diming you with their fees and purchasing their equipment. I told them I was hoping to try another BJJ class before I made my final decision.

This brings me to where I finally did sign up. I found a BJJ studio that has some warmups but nothing intense. The class was about 15 minutes from my work and had some early morning classes that I could take before work. Sweet! But the class itself is awesome! The instructor is very laid back and doesn't care about lineups or bowing or anything like that. Gi's are encouraged, but you can go buy whatever BJJ gi you want. I bought mine on Amazon for $40. And I tell you, it's mostly guys in the class. They are very friendly and very knowledgeable, and best of all THEY ARE A LOT OF FUN TO ROLL WITH in the drills. In the evening classes they even have "roll time" where you just grapple with different partners. How sweet is that? Also the monthly fee is somewhat lower than most of the other schools I looked at either on-line or in person. I knew after the first class that this one was what I was looking for.

So in summary, I strongly recommend BJJ as a martial art for those who can't wrestle too often because of lack of wrestlers in your area. For me it's a way to keep the grappling going without getting into too much trouble. I'm still wrestling the guys here, but keeping it at the guys I know will give me a good sweaty workout or that I am very comfortable with. When they can't rumble, then it's off to BJJ! Peace out everyone, and God bless!