If your child is transitioning into wrestling season, you may be wondering how to keep their skills sharp and maintain their competitive edge. The good news is that Jiu Jitsu is not only a fantastic martial art on its own but also a perfect complement to wrestling. Here’s how Jiu Jitsu can elevate your child’s wrestling game.
1. Mastery of Ground Control
Wrestling emphasizes takedowns and maintaining control, especially on the mat. Jiu Jitsu takes this one step further by refining a wrestler’s ability to dominate on the ground. Wrestlers who also train Jiu Jitsu gain a deep understanding of how to stay balanced, escape tricky positions, and maintain control in any scenario.
2. Enhanced Submission Defense
In wrestling, the goal is to pin your opponent. In Jiu Jitsu, the goal often includes controlling and submitting your opponent. Training Jiu Jitsu gives wrestlers a unique edge in submission defense and allows them to understand their own vulnerabilities on the mat. Learning to avoid dangerous positions and maintaining composure when an opponent attacks becomes second nature.
3. Agility and Reaction Time
Wrestling demands quick reflexes, and so does Jiu Jitsu. The constant practice of transitioning between positions and reacting to opponents’ movements in Jiu Jitsu hones the same speed and agility needed in wrestling. This ability to respond quickly to a fast-paced match makes for a stronger, more resilient wrestler.
4. Mental Toughness and Strategy
Both sports require immense mental toughness, but Jiu Jitsu places an additional emphasis on strategy and patience. Wrestlers who practice Jiu Jitsu learn the importance of timing, positioning, and planning their moves in advance. This mental edge helps them outthink their opponents on the wrestling mat.
5. Year-Round Conditioning
While wrestling season is typically a few months long, Jiu Jitsu can be practiced all year. This means your child can stay in peak physical condition, continuously working on their endurance, strength, and flexibility even when wrestling season is over.
Famous Wrestlers Who Practice Jiu Jitsu
Some of the top wrestlers in the world use Jiu Jitsu to complement their wrestling skills. Ben Askren, a former Olympic wrestler and UFC fighter, is known for his ability to blend wrestling and Jiu Jitsu seamlessly. Chael Sonnen, a renowned MMA fighter and former collegiate wrestler, has also credited Jiu Jitsu with enhancing his wrestling game.
These athletes understand that mastering Jiu Jitsu alongside wrestling gives them a competitive edge—something your child can benefit from as well.
Why Choose Jiu Jitsu During Wrestling Season?
Instead of stepping away from Jiu Jitsu during wrestling season, consider how both sports complement each other. Jiu Jitsu will build on the foundational skills of wrestling while giving your child new tools to enhance their performance. Many top-level wrestlers use Jiu Jitsu to sharpen their skills, and it’s no surprise why!
At Soca BJJ San Diego, we offer training that’s perfectly suited to enhance wrestling skills. Our instructors are dedicated to helping kids and teens grow in both sports. If your child is competing in wrestling, keeping up with Jiu Jitsu can make all the difference when they step back onto the wrestling mat.
Interested in seeing how Jiu Jitsu can benefit your child’s wrestling? Schedule a trial class with us today and experience it firsthand!
