COVID sparks interest in Jiu Jitsu
Brazillian Jiu Jitsu black belt Michael Pegg says COVID has forced people to reassess and pursue paths they’d always dreamed of doing
Nambour’s Garra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu head coach Michael Pegg knows how to get out of a tight spot. But the black belt needed all the fighting spirit he could muster after twin setbacks. Firstly, his previous premises were flooded last year. Then, this year, his relocated business was shut down because of COVID.
Despite it all, Michael said the forced relocation from Price to Currie Street turned out to be a blessing in disguise.
“I’m really happy with how everything turned out,” he said. “Now that the restrictions have lifted its been boom-town. We’ve experienced the highest level of intake since I started. I think it’s something to do with the new location. But more so, I think COVID has made individuals reassess their priorities. There’s nothing like having personal choice taken away for you to have a good hard look at what you should do, in terms of work-life balance.”
Michael described Brazilian Jiu Jitsu as “problem solving under duress”. “It’s about the application of structures and levers and doesn’t rely on strength and power. We attract lifestyle practitioners rather than people who are wanting to compete. “The beauty of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is you don’t have to have a particular physical attribute to be able to participate. “I also think it’s unique to other martial arts because you’re not getting repetitive trauma from punches and kicks to the head.”
He said the discipline was popular with women because it focused on neutralising strength or size advantages. “It’s great for women because it’s a great leveller. It’s not about brute strength, with the crucial element being the ability to navigate around your opponent on the ground.”
Michael said they also cater for children too “We’ve got equal boys to girls in the kids class. The girls love it just as much as the boys. And I think parents are keen to see their kids doing something that is active and meaningful.”
Michael said moving from Brisbane to Nambour a year ago with his young family was a wise move. “I’ve had nothing but support from the community. I feel like Nambour sometimes gets a bad rap but moving here with my wife and son was the best decision we’ve ever made.”
About Jiu Jitsu
Jiu Jitsu, originally a sport for the elite, became increasingly popular and now has a large following.
Rio de Janeiro is currently the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu capital of the world with the most number of schools and practitioners.
Garra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Currie Street offers multiple Adults and Kids classes each week.
The Gym caters for beginners through to advanced practitioners, with gi and no gi classes available. Phone Michael on 0405 230 933.