A Different Approach
At Zenyo, we take a different approach to Jiu Jitsu training.
We use the best ideas from continuously developing learning research to guide our practice. What you get is a fun, fast-paced class that brings out the best in each individual.
Zenyo means best. So that is the goal.
In movement science, the idea that one joint directs action and the rest of the body follows is called the leading joint hypothesis. It is being developed by Natalia Dounskaia.
Movements are directed by one joint; the rest support stability and balance, which are challenged by internal and external forces.
As we develop, our skill in managing these challenges gets better. Children fall all the time; adults rarely fall.
The ability to meet the dynamic needs of movement and balance — despite an infinite array of variables — has been called “the bliss of motor abundance.” The idea is being developed by Mark Latash.
Some describe this abundance as “noise,” and seek to remove it as a path to skillful action.
Learning, however, has been shown to be more effective in an environment where “noise” is orchestrated and amplified, rather than removed. This idea is being developed by Wolfgang Schollhorn and is called differential learning. Listen to Inside The Coaches’ Room Podcast with Wolfgang.
Elements Of Jiu Jitsu
The body, for our purposes in Jiu Jitsu training, is made of 11 primary joints that can be attacked in submissions.
The neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and ankles — the 11 joints — can be attacked in different ways, from different places and in different combinations. Once you can submit at each joint, you have a good starting point for Jiu Jitsu.
Looking at the joints of the body also gives you a way to understand movement.
One joint leads and the others follow. In movement science, this idea is called the leading joint hypothesis. The leading joint gives you a way to organize where and how to work for best result in Jiu Jitsu.
Movements are dictated by types of forces — muscle, gravity and ground-reaction. When you tap into these three forces for movement, you create a sum that is far greater than its parts.
To move a big object, you need a lot of force. (Force equals mass times acceleration.) Working against the leading joint lets you use your strength wisely instead of fighting against the greatest mass.
A smaller area creates more pressure. (Pressure equals mass dived by area.) Find a small spot for your pressure, through a leading joint, and you will be able to use less energy for greater effect.
These are the elements — joints, leads, forces — that are always present and never change.
Jiu Jitsu Training
We combine these ideas and elements in our Jiu Jitsu training at Zenyo.
The Leading Joint Hypothesis leads to fun ways to direct movement. Any joint can lead movement. Any joint can support balance.
The bliss of motor abundance leads to free expression in movement and balance. There is no one right way. There are many ways.
Differential Learning leads to training always being different and creative to better cope in a noisy environment.
Training Should Be Fun
We are told that repetition is the key to success. Through repetition you build muscle memory. Practice makes perfect.
In more than 15 years of coaching Jiu Jitsu, I’ve found this to be completely untrue. Research shows repetition-based instruction to be less effective than believed.
Your brain responds to fun and play. It responds best to creative movement, variety and differences.
Join us at Zenyo Jiu Jitsu to experience the difference.
Power Of Difference
How children develop their own unique ability through individualized training.
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