Brazilian Jiujitsu with Alastair
Introduce yourself.
I'm Alastair. I run the Brazilian Jiujitsu classes here, Beginners, All Levels, and private training.
What is Brazilian Jiujitsu?
Jiu-Jitsu is a form of grappling that emphasizes positional advantage and submission. You make the guy tap, nap, or snap.
Who do you think this discipline is for?
Anyone looking for a new competitive hobby, unable to afford therapy, and/or lacking physical contact in their lives 😂
What should a complete beginner expect in their first class with you?
A first class introduces you to the sport, with a few exercises to familiarize you with some of the basic skills you'll need to progress. No crazy moves, no crazy fitness level expected of you.
Any advice for someone nervous about trying their first class?
Relax. We're not trying to kill each other. It's just a game.
Which of your classes would you recommend for beginners?
I'd recommend Beginners or All Levels. If you're extra nervous, just stick with Beginners to start.
How did you discover it, and how long have you been doing this for?
Honestly? The internet. One YouTube rabbit hole led to another until I figured watching wasn't going to cut it, I had to actually get on the mats and try it myself.
Why do you keep doing it?
Because it's addictive, plain and simple. Every session is a new puzzle, a new way to get caught, a new way not to get caught next time. I don't have a deeper answer than that, and I don't think I need one.
What has the discipline taught you?
Flexibility, in more ways than one. On the mats, it's the literal kind, your hips end up moving places you didn't know they could. Off the mats, it's realizing nothing ever goes to plan, and you adapt or you tap.
What's your teaching approach?
I present common problems and help students understand how to solve them.
How do you train to get better?
Regularly. That's really the whole secret, there's no trick beyond showing up consistently and rolling with people better than you.
What do you think is special about Central MMA?
Honestly, I'm still pretty new here myself, so take this with a grain of salt. But even in a short time it's obvious there's no ego on these mats. Everyone's just here to get better, and that's rarer than it sounds.
Last question, not really martial arts related: what qualities do you admire the most and strive to practice or keep?
Patience, hands down. It's the one thing I'm actively working on, on the mats and everywhere else. Good things rarely happen fast, and I'd rather get there slow than not at all.