#FITNESS

Learn 3 Self-Defence Techniques From A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Pro

The perfect introductory guide for those looking to pick up this martial arts variant.

By Sean Yee        5 June 2025

Thinking of picking up a martial arts sport in 2025? You’re in the right place! Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been around for close to 100 years, and is lauded for its accessibility and beginner-friendly moves. Anyone can pick up the sport easily, and it can be practised anywhere. It is mobile, powerful and most importantly, it is easily adaptable to our modern way of life.

But what exactly is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? 

Brazilian what?

Onyx MMA Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

It’s coined as a Brazilian sports type, but its country of origin is affixed with the Japanese noun, Jiu-Jitsu. What gives? 

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu really is a marriage between two very distinct Judo variants, a fusion that is more accessible and beginner-friendly for the masses. It is a modern interpretation of Judo, emphasising ground grappling fighting techniques. It found great success in the Judo community, with many embracing its more pragmatic and high impact move sets as a way of life. Many practitioners have also gravitated towards Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for its self-defence move sets. 

I just got attacked!

Onyx MMA Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

We are joined by our very own Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach from Onyx Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) at SAFRA Jurong to showcase three fundamental self-defence move sets that anyone, regardless of stature or experience, can try!

Technique 1: Wrist Grab Escape

In a scenario where someone grabs your wrist, it is crucial to remember that the weakest point of any grip is the thumb. Turn towards it and pull away! 

Technique 2: Rear Choke Defence

An attacker has just grabbed you from behind! 

First, tuck your chin to protect your airway and then grip their arms. Step to the side and pivot out using your hip. Leverage always beats raw strength! 

Technique 3: Ground Escape

Someone has pushed you, causing you to fall to the ground. While it is easy to indulge your instincts and fight back, you have to remind yourself of the primary goal here – to get back on your feet safely. 

Use your legs to create distance and push your assailant off his balance. After which, stand up with a technical recovery move (as shown in the video). 

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing and much more

With training studios at SAFRA Tampines, SAFRA Jurong and SAFRA Yishun at EnergyOne, you can easily find a community of impassioned fighters pushing themselves to their limit at Onyx Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). In addition to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, they also offer classes in Muay Thai, Boxing as well as Strength and Conditioning. They even have sessions personalised for kids! 

Whether you’re looking to try out the various martial arts or simply looking to get active and fit, Onyx MMA has you covered. You might even build some muscles and lose a couple of pounds along the way!

Visit safra.sg/onyx-mixed-martial-arts-(mma) for more information.


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