{"id":1854,"date":"2021-07-21T09:39:15","date_gmt":"2021-07-21T09:39:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/onmartialarts.com\/?p=936"},"modified":"2021-10-03T07:34:57","modified_gmt":"2021-10-03T07:34:57","slug":"is-height-an-advantage-in-bjj","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craftofmanhood.com\/is-height-an-advantage-in-bjj\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Height An Advantage In BJJ?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu differs from traditional Jiu-Jitsu in that it is utilized as a form of sport, as opposed to real-life combat situations. So in a more focused sport focused on grappling and technique, will height play to your advantage?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those who are taller, and resultantly have longer limbs, are thought to have an advantage over their shorter opponents. This is mainly because they can get their counterparts into submissions in ways that are difficult for those with shorter limbs.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n When we look at the general reasoning behind this, we will find that longer appendages equate to greater leverage. However, we also need to consider that there are times when greater experience and proper technique may play in favor of the smaller person.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The fact of the matter is that BJJ is a form of martial arts which focuses on taking the fight to the ground. So we are not concentrating on stand-up fighting with punches and kicks (where a taller opponent would always have greater reach). Still, rather we are looking to utilize momentum, technique, and leverage to subdue our opponent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n So yes, it would be easier for a taller, and potentially bigger, practitioner to gain a hold on their counterpart and take them down, but just because they have greater reach does not mean that once the fight goes to the ground, it will work in their favor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Like all others, this form of martial arts becomes a game of strategy when practiced at a high level. The fighter who has the coolest head and can bide their time and make strategic moves is generally the one who will score more points or ultimately submit their opponent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The nature of BJJ is also an energy-efficient martial arts style that relies less on pure power and strength but rather focuses on fitness, technique, and strategizing. Bearing this in mind, it is therefore theoretically correct to think that a shorter and potentially weaker opponent can defeat someone taller. However, there are many factors at play here. For instance, a person\u2019s age, level of experience, and general mastery of the sport come into play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n They most certainly can, and there are even techniques and maneuvers that can help them dominate their taller and bigger competitors, as seen in this Youtube clip. A shorter fighter may also choose to focus on specific submissions. For instance, instead of trying to utilize joint locks, where a taller competitor may counter them, a shorter individual may opt to use compression locks or chokes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Shorter people also have a lower center of gravity, so although taller fighters have better reach, they are easier to takedown. Shorter people must master the art of taking their opponents to the ground and gain the upper hand from the start. It will eliminate the reach advantage which the taller fighter will have. <\/p>\n\n\n\n A great tip for shorter fighters is to train with taller people as well, as you will need to compete with a variety of shapes and sizes. It is much easier to choose to train with individuals of a similar build, but this will not be to your benefit if you are ever faced with a taller and potentially larger opponent. It may be frustrating initially as the taller fighter tends to have advantages, but with time and dedication, one can learn how to take them on masterfully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also, instead of physically moving your larger opponent as you want, rather try to utilize their own motions and momentum against them, as this will help conserve energy and be more efficient. For instance, if they are coming in for a takedown, use that forward motion to your advantage and reverse it into an attack of your own.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Shorter individuals often tend to be more agile and mobile than their larger counterparts. If you happen to fall in this category, then it is in your best interest to add this to your fighter\u2019s \u2018toolbox.’ So instead of standing still and allowing the taller individual to get a hold of you, be sure to constantly be on the move until you are ready to make your attack. Side note: making the bigger fighter move around more is also a great way to tire them out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finally, what you want to also do is eliminate the advantages that your taller opponent has. Close the gap between you and them so that their reach is no longer something they can use against you. Also, consider trying to get their backs; a back mount or back attacks are your ideal way of eliminating that reach advantage even further.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A taller person tends to not only have longer legs but arms as well. One key advantage is that once a taller person has their hooks locked in, especially in a mounted position, it can be incredibly difficult for a shorter individual to worm their way out of there. Another definitive space where they have the upper hand is that their center of gravity is dispersed over a larger area and can be difficult to counter on the side mount.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, a position where height comes in handy is when one is in a guard (especially open) position as you can manipulate your opponent with greater ease and keep them at a comfortable distance, making it harder for your opponent to pass and gives you the time until you are ready to make a move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sweeps from guard are one example of a move that you should be able to excel in. Additionally, lengthy limbs also cater towards triangles and armbars. In the triangle choke, having longer legs allows the fighter to obtain the choke without raising their hips too high, making it harder for the opponent to get free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are not only tall but also flexible, then you can be very proficient at BJJ. The greater your level of flexibility, the easier it will be for you to maneuver around your opponent and ensnare them in your long limbs.<\/p>\n\n\n\nDoes One\u2019s Size Really Matter?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Can Short People Do Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Are The Benefits To Being Taller?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n