Rickson: 'If you don't know self-defense, you don't know jiujitsu'

What makes a true jiujitsu teacher, one capable of changing their students' lives forever, and so forth?

It was in 2013 that Master Rickson Gracie realized what a true instructor needed to know in order for the art to never lose its character. 

It was during a dinner with old friends and students that Rickson exposed what he was realizing. The reunion, in Redondo Beach, is recounted in the book Breathe, and ended with a memorable speech by the master. He said:

"This notable system known as jiujitsu was designed for the weak to defend themselves against the strong. Pretty medals and extravagant somersaults have no relation with real life. If you don't know self-defense, you don't know jiujitsu. It's necessary to be ready to defend against a punch, a rear naked choke or an aggressive bear hug given by a stranger. If you don't know that, you're just a tough guy with cauliflower ears, who depends on his physique and the strength of his grip to have success."

To become a jiujitsu teacher who preserves the effectiveness of your art, start studying basic self-defense seriously. 

This is an excerpt from the Self Defense Unit course, which is included with the Rickson.Academy subscription. Click Here for the full class.