We have all heard the argument street vs sport right? This is one of the most debated ideas in the BJJ world and I would like to share my own opinions on the matter. First, let me say that I am, in fact a student of the old school self-defense first mindset and believe every student should learn the basic self-defense program. However, I am also an avid competitor and appreciate all of the sport Jiu-Jitsu techniques. In this article I am going to attempt to destroy the myth that “sport only guys” would get beat up in the street.
Myth 1.) What You Do In Competition; You will do in a fight- Honestly this is complete crap. No one is that dumb! We are not going to go out and pull spider or attempt a berimbolo in the street!! We will be going for a clinch and takedown or defending with the closed guard.
Myth 2.) Guard Pullers Can’t Defend themselves in the street- Are you kidding me ? First, it’s literally called guard and has been showcased in many events to be highly effective in fights even by the Gracies themselves. Second, just because we pull guard in BJJ doesn’t mean we will if we are attacked. Fact is that most people in the streets have no idea how to stop a takedown and are terribly uncoordinated.
Myth 3.) Sport techniques are not applicable in the street- While some of this may be true, in general there are a lot of sport techniques that are in fact street applicable. Even the classic cross collar choke (which seems to be ignored by the sport haters) can be used with even a tee shirt which I have actually seen and practiced(and it works!).
What other things do you hear people say about the sport BJJ guys?
