Roll With It: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu 101

·31 min·3 clips

How can a thin reed guy submit huge opponents in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

The episode begins with host Ahmad Fuad Rahmat introducing the show's new time slot and welcoming guest Eugene Lee, also known as Kenu from the Jiu-Jitsu Foundry. Rahmat asks Lee to explain grappling, which Lee describes as freestyle wrestling focused on submissions like chokes and joint locks on the ground. They contrast Jiu-Jitsu with striking martial arts like Muay Thai, noting its lower injury risk due to tapping out. Lee traces Jiu-Jitsu's popularity in Malaysia to UFC events in 1993 and Brazilian instructors teaching locally. He explains how smaller practitioners can defeat larger ones using leverage and ground control, comparing it to being stuck in quicksand. The growth of Jiu-Jitsu in Malaysia is linked to amateur MMA events like MIMA, which require ground skills. Lee clarifies the term 'Brazilian' Jiu-Jitsu stems from Japanese immigrants in Brazil evolving Judo into a more ground-based art. The belt system from white to black with stripes is discussed, with advancement based on performance rather than formal exams. Lee notes many practitioners are working adults training 2-3 times weekly, slowing progression. The episode highlights Jiu-Jitsu's inclusivity for different body types and genders, with skill overcoming strength differences. Rahmat shares personal experiences about building trust with training partners and the camaraderie in Lee's gym. They explore the mental toughness required to stay calm when pinned or choked, referencing Eddie Bravo's concept of comfort in discomfort. Lee advises beginners to come with an empty mind and focus on basics, emphasizing patience. The conversation touches on age inclusivity, with Lee starting at 36 and encouraging older practitioners to train at their own pace. Rahmat concludes by promoting the Jiu-Jitsu Foundry in Damansara Uptown and inviting listeners to explore the sport.

As heard by us

A grounded primer on grappling, training time, and the claims surrounding Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu is made unusually readable by starting with a simple problem: how to describe grappling when the action itself cannot be seen.

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Why you'd press play

Want grappling basics without buying the claim that BJJ is automatically the best? Press play.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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