The other day at open mat, we decided to add soft slaps while we rolled to simulate what it might feel like in a Combat Jiu-Jitsu match.
And honestly⦠it completely changed the way I look at Jiu-Jitsu.
As someone who competes and trains strictly Jiu-Jitsu, I understand the self-defense concepts my professor teaches, but if Iām being real, I donāt spend my weekends getting into fights. Itās not something that crosses my mind much as a grown man living a pretty normal life.
But once those slaps were added, everything changed.
I realized how many positions I was comfortable in that would be absolutely terrible if my opponent could strike.
That lazy posture in half guard? Not so great anymore.
Hanging out underneath mount waiting for the perfect escape? Definitely not ideal.
I started to understand things my professor has preached for years.
A hard bridge from mount forces your opponent to post their hands instead of striking.
When youāre working an underhook from half guard, keeping your head glued to their body isnāt just good technique it removes their striking distance entirely.
Suddenly, every inch of space mattered.
The experience didnāt make me want to fight. It made me appreciate the art even more.
Jiu-Jitsu isnāt just about submissions. Itās about controlling distance, eliminating danger, and creating safety for yourself.
If youāve never tried it, I encourage you to give it a shot with someone you trust. Use soft slaps, glove taps, or even just air punches. You might be surprised how much it changes your perspective on your game.
Have you ever trained with strikes involved? Did it change the way you view your Jiu-Jitsu?