Some people might be intimidated by the idea of beginning to study martial arts later in life. Why should that not be the case?

Running coach and Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman is credited with the phrase, “If you have a body, you are an athlete.” Everyone who first steps into a martial arts class will have physical limits that they need to work around. A good teacher shows students how to connect with the material within their current fitness and understanding, and helps set goals for moving forward. There are many different options when it comes to learning martial arts. Even teachers of the same discipline all have their own approach. The sort of intimidation-based teaching style seen in the original Karate Kid movie is very rare. Anyone can find a martial art and a teacher that works for them.

What can someone expect when attending an introductory Brazilian jiujitsu class?

Jiujitsu is not MMA (mixed martial arts). You won’t be hitting anyone or being hit in your first class. I work hard to foster a welcoming and supportive environment in my training center. Everyone struggles in their first class, so try to leave your ego at the door. Jiujitsu involves very close contact with your training partner. You’ll find yourself in positions that would be awkward with your spouse. Almost nobody has a frame of reference for moving around on the ground, so your movements won’t feel smooth. You might feel winded sooner than you hoped. Just give it your best shot and remember, no matter what happens, you’ll only improve moving forward.

What are the physical benefits of studying martial arts like Brazilian jiujitsu?

Virtually any martial art can improve balance, coordination and muscular strength/endurance. Jiujitsu has the added benefit of not only moving your own body, but doing so against a resisting opponent. Jiujitsu movements are done first with little to no resistance, so each partner can understand what’s happening. Then resistance is increased, so every movement needs to be done against someone basically attempting the opposite at all times. This has great cardiovascular benefits.

What are the mental benefits?

Success in jiujitsu requires you to be mentally present. You have to set aside the stresses and distractions of the day and focus on the here and now. This is a great habit for anyone, not just martial artists or athletes. Jiujitsu constantly presents new problems to solve. You have to think creatively and overcome any frustration you might have. Everyone can gain something from practicing with anyone else, so it encourages you to keep an open mind.

As far as self-defense, can someone learn effective ways to protect themselves from violence in a short amount of time?

Being able to protect yourself shouldn’t require years of study. By far the more important consideration is how many hours you have spent practicing, not how many days have passed since you started. Someone can learn effective skills and strategies in a single session, but repetition is crucial. Those things need to be practiced under stress to develop confidence that they’ll work when it counts. The more time you’re able to commit to it, the more rapidly you’ll improve and the greater your skill will become.

To book a class with Jules Embry-Pelrine, visit nantucketmartialarts.com.