Martial Arts: Empowering Women To Stand Against Abuse

Can I start off with a serious question?

How empowered would you feel knowing that you can stand your own against someone double your size – regardless of their sex?

I bring this up because I came across a few alarming statistics. 

It can be a sensitive topic but it’s a widespread problem that needs to be brought to attention. 

A 2016 survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that a staggering 1 in 5 women since the age of 15, have experience sexual violence, 1 in 6 have experienced stalking, and 1 in 2 have been sexually harrassed (1).

Of course, violence against women is an extremely complex issue which requires a collective effort to change on a social, political and economic level – especially addressing beliefs and behaviours that reflect disrespect and gender inequality towards women. 
However, what Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) can offer is great confidence and empowerment to stand against abuse and victimisation. 

Discover New Capabilities and Shatter Women Stereotypes

What makes BJJ hugely applicable for women is that it shatters any preconceived ability and stereotype of ANY individual. 

No matter your age, gender, profession, body type or athleticism, BJJ creates an even foundation where anybody can beat anybody. 

Unlike striking martial arts, BJJ is all about ground fighting techniques to restrain, control and submit your opponent – so you don’t have to worry about getting hit in the face or getting accidentally knocked out. 

The techniques focus on body positioning, the use of leverage and strategic movements that allow a smaller but more knowledgeable person to effectively defend against a much larger opponent.

It’s not uncommon that a seemingly weaker and smaller person is able to out maneuver and control a larger opponent through technique alone. We see this happen everyday on the mats, and it’s been shown in high-level competitions time and time again. 

“Always assume that your opponent is going to be bigger, stronger and faster than you; so that you can rely on technique, timing and leverage rather than brute strength.” – Grand Master Helio Gracie (Co-founder of Gracie Jiu Jitsu) 

Learning the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu will give women the confidence and peace of mind that they possess a powerful tool to serve them in any situation if they need to stand up for themselves.  

Introductory 4 Week Women Empowerment Course

With the guidance of globally recognised legends, Xande and Saulo Ribeiro (Co-Founders of Ribeiro Jiu Jitsu), Sensei Davi (Head Coach of Ribeiro Jiu Jitsu Perth) has put together a 4 week women’s only introductory course that covers the “must-knows” to common self-defense situations. 

This program is the perfect starting point for mothers, daughters, sisters and friends of any fitness level and experience to begin their empowerment journey in a safe and supportive environment, under the guidance of experienced coaches. 

What to expect:

• 4 week introductory women’s only self-defense program covers how to defend against the most common and dangerous threats against women. 
• Based on Ribeiro Jiu Jitsu techniques that have been tested and perfected over decades
• Develop rock solid reflexes to defend against someone trying to subdue you, pin you to the ground and attacking you from the back. 
• Join a fun & supportive community, elevate each other, and build life-long friendships 
• Become a leader and strong female figure for other women, children and family members 

Not only will you be engaging in fun and practical movements that get you fit, the biggest asset you’ll gain is new found confidence. You’ll shatter any old beliefs you had about what you can and cannot do, and discover who you really are. 

All it takes is the courage to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. See you on the mats!