BJJ in Bangkok with Super Kick Gym

Equipment

Gi (Kimono)

A BJJ gi includes a jacket, pants, and a rank-indicating belt, usually crafted from cotton blends for grappling durability.

Select a robust weave — lightweight gis offer comfort, while heavier ones are durable and provide grip resistance.

Fit is crucial; it should be close-fitting yet flexible. Note that gis may shrink post-wash, affecting size choice.

Wash after every training session in cold water and air dry. Avoid using bleach and high heat.

Recommendations

Outshock GI

฿ 2,500

Buy

Fairtex GI

฿ 3,500

Buy

Rashguards and Spats

Rashguards and spats (leggings) are compression garments worn under the gi. They reduce friction, manage moisture, and prevent mat burns.

Look for breathable materials that wick away sweat, usually a blend of polyester and spandex.

Wash these garments after each use in cold water and air dry to maintain elasticity and color.

Similar to the GI, wash after each use. Use cold water and air dry to maintain the elasticity and color of the fabric.

Recommendations

Outshock Rashguard

฿ 800

Buy

Fairtex Rashguard

฿ 1,500

Buy

Mouthguard

A mouthguard is essential to protect your teeth and reduce the risk of concussion. Consider a boil-and-bite mouthguard you can mold at home or get one custom-made by a dental professional.

Rinse your mouthguard with water or mouthwash after each use, allow it to dry completely, and store it in a ventilated case.

Rinse your mouthguard with water or mouthwash after each use and allow it to dry completely. Store it in a ventilated case.

Recommendations

Boxing Mouthguard

฿ 220

Buy

Gel Mouthguard

฿ 550

Buy

Ear Protection (Optional)

Headgear can be worn during sparring to protect the ears and prevent "cauliflower ear" – a common injury where the ear becomes swollen and deformed due to trauma.

Look for headgear specifically designed for grappling arts like BJJ that covers and protects the ears. It should fit snugly but not restrict hearing or movement.

Headgear with ample ventilation is also preferable to prevent overheating.

Recommendations

Combat Sports Ear Guard

฿ 800

Buy

Adidas Ear Protector

฿ 990

Buy

Knee Pads (Optional)

Knee pads offer protection and support, which is particularly beneficial for athletes with previous knee injuries or those looking to prevent future knee problems.

Opt for knee pads with thick padding around the knee cap and lower thigh area to absorb impacts.

Sleeveless knee pads allow better flexibility compared to sleeved compression styles. The right knee pads can reduce mat burn and bruising while still allowing freedom of leg movement.

Recommendations

Cliff Keen Air Brace

฿ 1,941

Buy

Kipsta Knee Pads

฿ 500

Buy

Antiseptics and Hygiene

Always shower immediately after training using an antiseptic soap or body wash to eliminate bacteria. Keep your nails trimmed short and clean, and wash your training gear (GI, rashguard, etc.) after each session.

For any cuts or minor skin abrasions, clean the wound with a topical antiseptic containing chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine, then cover it with a sterile bandage until it heals to prevent infection.

Recommendations

Ethyl Alcohol

฿ 26

Buy

Chlorhexidine

฿ 220

Buy

Bruises and Muscle Soreness Treatment

BJJ often leads to bruises and muscle soreness.

Remedies include:

• Namman Muay liniment to warm muscles and reduce pain/bruising.

• Diclofenac anti-inflammatory gels/creams.

• Ice and compression to reduce swelling/soreness.

Consult a doctor before using any treatments.

Recommendations

Uniren Spray

฿ 175

Buy

Namman Muay

฿ 59

Buy

What to Expect On Your First Class

Attending your first Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) class can be an exciting and somewhat nerve-wracking experience.

Knowing what to expect can help ease any anxiety and prepare you for a positive introduction to the world of BJJ.

Here’s a rundown of what typically happens in a beginner's first BJJ class:

Introduction and Warm-Up

• Meet and Greet: You'll likely start by introducing yourself to the instructor and possibly some of the other students. It's a good opportunity to mention any injuries or concerns you have.

• Warm-Up: Classes usually start with a warm-up, which can include jogging, stretching, and BJJ-specific movements like shrimping, forward/backward rolls, and breakfalls to prepare your body for practice.

Technique Instruction

• Demonstration: The instructor will demonstrate a series of techniques, often starting from a fundamental position. As a beginner, you'll likely focus on basic positions, escapes, and possibly a simple submission.

• Drilling: After the demonstration, you'll partner up to practice (or "drill") the techniques. This is done in a controlled manner, allowing you to understand the mechanics and nuances of the movements.

Sparring (Rolling)

• Controlled Sparring: Depending on the gym's policy for beginners, you might participate in light sparring, often referred to as "rolling." This is a chance to apply techniques in a more dynamic setting but with a focus on learning rather than competition.

• Observation: If the instructor prefers, you might just observe sparring on your first day. This can be equally beneficial, as it gives you a sense of the flow and objectives of BJJ.

Q&A and Cool Down

• Questions: There will usually be time to ask questions about the techniques learned or about BJJ in general. Don't hesitate to ask; it's a great way to deepen your understanding.

• Cool Down: The class might end with a cool-down session, which could include light stretching or breathing exercises to help your body recover.

BJJ and Its Benefits

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu transcends being merely a fighting style; it is a path of profound self-exploration, cultivating mental fortitude, and an endless cycle of self-refinement.

Originating from Japan and later refined in Brazil, BJJ has become a global phenomenon, cherished for its effectiveness in self-defense and as a core component of mixed martial arts (MMA).

At its heart, BJJ concentrates on grappling and ground fighting, with the principle that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant using leverage and proper technique.

The Essence of BJJ

"Jiu-Jitsu is like a philosophy. It helps me learn how to face life." - Helio Gracie

This fighting style conveys that by exercising patience, persevering, and employing proper techniques, one can overcome difficulties, reflecting the challenges we encounter in our everyday lives.

It is not merely about physical strength; it is a mental discipline that hones the mind and cultivates resilience.

Combat sports for travelers and expats

We understand that BJJ is more than just a martial art; it's a global community that transcends borders, languages, and cultures.

Here's how we cater to travelers and expats, ensuring they have a fulfilling and enriching experience at our gym:

Creating a Welcoming Environment

• Open-Door Policy: Our gym operates with an open-door policy, inviting practitioners of all levels from around the world to train with us, whether they're passing through or settling in as new residents.

• Multilingual Instruction: Recognizing the diverse backgrounds of our members, we offer instruction in multiple languages or have staff and instructors who can bridge language barriers, ensuring everyone feels included and can learn effectively.

Smooth Integration

• Introduction to Local BJJ Culture: We provide an orientation to newcomers about the local BJJ scene, our gym's culture, and the general etiquette to help them integrate smoothly into our community.

• Community Events: Regular social events, open mats, and seminars are organized to foster camaraderie and allow travelers and expats to connect with local practitioners, forming bonds beyond the mats.

Flexible Membership Options

• Drop-In Rates and Short-Term Memberships: Understanding the transient nature of travel, we offer flexible membership options, including drop-in rates for visitors and short-term memberships for those staying longer.

Support for Expats

• Relocation Assistance: For expats moving to the area, we provide guidance and support, helping them navigate the challenges of settling in a new country, from finding accommodation to understanding local customs.

• Networking Opportunities: Our gym serves as a networking hub, connecting expats with local professionals and community resources, aiding in their professional and personal adjustment.

Training and Development

• Diverse Training Partners: Our gym boasts a diverse roster of practitioners, offering travelers and expats a unique opportunity to roll with partners of various styles, techniques, and backgrounds, enriching their BJJ journey.

• Specialized Workshops and Seminars: We regularly host workshops and seminars led by renowned athletes and instructors from around the world, providing access to high-level BJJ instruction and the latest techniques.

Our goal is to make every practitioner's journey, whether they're a local, traveler, or expat, as rewarding as possible.

We believe in the power of BJJ to bring people together, fostering a sense of global community and mutual respect.

Our doors are always open to those looking to explore BJJ and immerse themselves in new cultures.

Mental Health Benefits of Martial Arts

Training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu offers profound mental health benefits, making it a holistic practice that nurtures the mind just as much as it does the body.

“It helps you learn to deal with your fears and to stay calm under pressure, to be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.”

— Rener Gracie, black belt instructor, coach, and inventor.

Engaging in this martial art can lead to significant improvements in mental well-being, resilience, and overall life satisfaction.

Stress Reduction

The physical exertion involved acts as a powerful stress reliever.

Focusing on techniques and sparring (rolling) requires concentration and mindfulness, drawing attention away from daily worries and redirecting it to the present moment.

This mindfulness aspect can be likened to moving meditation, offering a mental break, and reducing pressure levels.

Confidence and Self-Esteem

The process of studying and internalizing fresh techniques, realizing individualized aspirations, and climbing the hierarchical ladder breeds an innate amplification of self-belief and positive self-regard.

Overcoming challenges on the mat translates into a stronger belief in one's abilities off the mat, enhancing self-assurance in various life situations.

Social Connection

The community aspect of training provides a sense of belonging and support.

The shared experiences, challenges, and successes foster strong bonds between practitioners.

This social support network is crucial for mental health, and combating feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Psychological Fortitude

The sport teaches practitioners to remain calm and think clearly under pressure, enhancing psychological fortitude.

This ability to face challenges with a composed and determined mindset is invaluable, improving one's capacity to handle stress and adversity in everyday life.

Cognitive Benefits

The strategic nature of the art sharpens cognitive functions.

Practitioners constantly analyze positions, anticipate opponents' moves, and devise strategies, which can improve problem-solving skills, memory, and overall intellectual dexterity.

Emotional Regulation

Regular practice aids in emotional regulation, teaching individuals to manage frustration, anger, and disappointment constructively.

The discipline required to maintain focus and composure during training enhances emotional intelligence and self-control.

Sense of Achievement

The journey through the ranks, marked by the acquisition of colored belts, provides clear goals and a sense of achievement as each milestone is reached.

This progress, visible and tangible, is immensely gratifying and contributes to a positive mental outlook.

Enhanced Focus and Discipline

The demanding nature of the training instills a high level of focus and discipline.

This increased mental discipline can have far-reaching effects, improving productivity, and the ability to concentrate in other areas of life.

Real-World Applicability of BJJ

• Effective Self-Defense: techniques emphasize leverage and control, allowing practitioners to subdue opponents without relying solely on brute force. Ground fighting, joint locks, and chokes equip individuals with valuable tools for real-world self-defense scenarios.

• Close Quarters Combat: Unlike striking-based disciplines, jiu-jitsu remains highly effective in close quarters or against larger opponents, as it utilizes an aggressor's momentum and strength against them.

• Calm Under Pressure: Through rigorous sparring and drilling, practitioners cultivate the ability to remain calm and think critically in high-stress situations, enhancing decision-making capabilities during real-world confrontations.

• Law Enforcement and Security Applications: Grappling techniques provide a range of options for controlling and restraining individuals without causing excessive harm, making it valuable in law enforcement, military, and security contexts.

• De-escalation and Minimized Risk: The emphasis on control and leverage allows for effective de-escalation of potentially violent encounters while minimizing the risk of injury to all parties involved.

In essence, BJJ's real-world applicability stems from its practical techniques, emphasis on leverage and control, and the development of critical attributes like situational awareness and composure under pressure, making it a valuable asset for personal protection and professional applications.

Self-defense techniques and principles

The martial art in question offers a plethora of self-defense techniques and principles that can be applied to everyday life situations. Here are some valuable ones:

1. Awareness and Avoidance: Training teaches heightened situational awareness, allowing you to identify potential threats and avoid confrontations whenever possible. This mindset can help you stay vigilant and make safer decisions in your daily routine.

2. Leverage and Balance: The art's focus on using leverage and maintaining proper balance can be applied to physical altercations, but also to navigating challenging situations in life. You'll develop the ability to remain grounded and use your resources effectively.

3. Adaptability: The practice will cultivate your capacity to dynamically adjust your techniques and strategies in response to the unique opponent and scenario you confront. This adaptiveness honed on the mats holds relevance that extends beyond, empowering you to deftly navigate unforeseen situations or impediments that may manifest in daily life.

4. Perseverance and Resilience: The exercise itself cultivates perseverance and resilience, as you'll face setbacks and challenges that you must overcome. These qualities can help you navigate life's obstacles with determination and fortitude.

By incorporating it into your daily life, you'll not only be better prepared for physical confrontations but also develop valuable life skills that can enhance your overall well-being and ability to handle various situations effectively.

Self-Defense for Women

For women, this martial art offers a comprehensive approach to self-defense that goes beyond physical techniques. It cultivates:

• A mindset of empowerment

• Boundary-setting

• Assertiveness

Crucial skills for navigating uncomfortable situations and potentially avoiding altercations altogether.

The training emphasizes verbal de-escalation tactics, teaching women to:

• Project confidence and authority

• Set clear boundaries

• Diffuse confrontations through effective communication

This proactive approach can often prevent situations from escalating to physical violence.

Moreover, the art addresses the psychological and emotional aspects of self-defense. Through rigorous training, women develop mental resilience, enabling them to:

• Overcome trauma and psychological effects of an assault

• Aid in the healing process

• Reclaim a sense of control

When it comes to physical techniques, the art's focus on leverage and control is particularly empowering for women facing larger, stronger opponents. Techniques like:

• Joint locks

• Chokes

• Takedowns

Neutralize threats without solely relying on brute force, evening the playing field.

Ground fighting and positional control are also critical components, equipping women with the skills to defend themselves effectively if an altercation results in being taken to the ground. These techniques can create opportunities for:

• Escape

• Counter-attack

• Subduing the aggressor

Furthermore, many women's self-defense programs incorporate effective striking techniques, ensuring a well-rounded skillset for various attack scenarios, whether standing or on the ground.

Ultimately, this martial art empowers women not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally. It fosters:

• A sense of confidence

• Self-assurance

• The ability to trust one's instincts

Invaluable assets in navigating potentially dangerous situations and living life on one's terms.

Plans and goals

1. Expansion and Facility Upgrades: We aim to expand our facilities and enhance our training space to accommodate our growing community of athletes and provide an even better training experience for our students.

2. Instructor Development Program: We seek to invest in the professional development of our instructors through specialized training programs, certifications, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that they continue to deliver high-quality instruction to our students.

3. Competition Team Expansion: We aim to expand our competition team and provide more opportunities for our athletes to compete at local, national, and international levels, representing our gym with pride and excellence.

4. Advanced Training Seminars: We plan to organize advanced training seminars and workshops led by world-class athletes and experts in the field, offering our students the opportunity to learn from the best and take their skills to the next level.

5. Exchange Programs: We seek to establish exchange programs with other martial arts academies and organizations, fostering cultural exchange, collaboration, and friendship across mats.

Expanding the BJJ community

Embark on a journey with us to expand the vibrant and dynamic Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community in Bangkok!

Experience the thrill of mastering new techniques, forging lifelong friendships, and pushing your limits alongside fellow enthusiasts.

Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a curious newcomer, our gym offers a welcoming environment where everyone is encouraged to grow and thrive. Join us as we elevate our passion for martial arts and make a lasting impact on the BJJ scene in Bangkok.

Together, we can build something truly special. Are you ready to be a part of it?

Injury Prevention

Before stepping onto the mats, ensuring a thorough warm-up is not just a routine, but a critical aspect of injury prevention.

1. Dynamic Stretches: Engaging in dynamic stretching exercises helps to gradually increase the range of motion in your joints and muscles. Movements like leg swings, arm circles, and torso twists stimulate blood flow, improve flexibility, and prepare your body for the dynamic movements of techniques.

2. Mobility Drills: Incorporating mobility drills into your warm-up routine targets specific areas of the body used in BJJ, such as the hips, shoulders, and spine. Exercises like hip openers, shoulder rotations, and spinal twists enhance joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and optimize movement mechanics, reducing the risk of strains and sprains during training.

3. Light Cardio: Incorporating a brief session of exercises like running or doing jumping jacks into your warm-up regimen boosts your heart rate and enhances blood flow across your body. This improves the oxygen supply to your muscles, readies your heart and blood vessels, and mentally gears you up for the rigorous requirements of BJJ practice.

4. Injury Prevention Benefits: A thorough warm-up not only prepares your body physically but also mentally for the challenges ahead. By gradually ramping up the intensity of your warm-up, you can mentally focus on your training, sharpen your reflexes, and improve your reaction time, reducing the likelihood of accidents and injuries during sparring or drilling.

5. Consistency is Key: Making warm-up exercises a consistent part of your routine is crucial for long-term injury prevention and overall performance improvement. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, dedicating time to warm up properly sets the foundation for safe and effective training sessions, allowing you to maximize your potential on the mats.

Investing time in a comprehensive warm-up routine before BJJ rolls is a proactive approach to injury prevention and performance enhancement.

By incorporating dynamic stretches, mobility drills, and light cardio into your warm-up, you can prime your body for the physical demands of BJJ, reduce the risk of injuries, and optimize your overall exercising experience.