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Many Bjj schools focus exclusively on sports jiu-jitsu training. The Gracie Barra Fundamentals program focuses a lot on techniques and strategies that are applicable to personal self defense situations.

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There is a debate as to whether sport jiu-jitsu applies to self defense situations, but one thing is for sure: training in self defense specific techniques is essential for all students to jiu-jitsu.

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One of the most neglected techniques is closing the distance and getting to the clinch and takedown against someone who is looking to punch you. Also, escaping from common street holds is very important.

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Let’s take a look at some Self Defense 101 techniques as taught by Gracie Barra instructors.

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If you want to clinch with your opponent and get the fight to the ground, your first skill is to close the distance and avoid getting hit with a punch.

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Prof. Marcio Feitosa shows more tips on how to keep the distance and avoid your opponent’s punches and get to the clinch. This is possibly THE best old school self defense take down – both simple and effective.

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Professor Philipe Della Monica teaching a headlock escape during the GB1 / Fundamentals Class.

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Learning how to control the distance and avoid strikes if you are on the bottom is a key skill set to learn. Prof. Flavio Almeida shows us how to avoid being hit when in the guard.

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If you watch any number of videos featuring street altercations, you will no doubt see combatants using the rear naked choke. Especially if there are multiple people involved and you can’t see the attacker coming from behind. This escape could save you from a very bad situation.

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What is YOUR favorite Self Defense technique?

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See also on Gracie Barra : Attacking From The Mount

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Credits: Mark Mullen

Gracie Barra Black belt based in Asia