What to Expect

The main idea behind Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is to use technique to overcome a larger and stronger opponent. We focus on proven techniques.

Our goal is to make you a better grappler regardless of what your skill level is; we have seasoned grapplers and folks that have never been on the mat training with us. Techniques are explained clearly, demonstrated and then coached.

A typical class begins with a thorough warm up followed by instruction and practice of a specific technique. The latter half of class consists of "rounds" or free style grappling - this is where you get to practice what you have learned.

Competition Curriculum

The competition curriculum includes a combination of wrestling and judo takedowns to get the competition student familiar with both styles of standup fighting. Competition training is held every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening from 7:30 until 8:30 with Monday evening being dedicated to Judo.

What to Bring

Class is performed with gis (judo or jiu jitsu uniforms) on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Saturday is "no gi" training and we wear board shorts and a T-shirt. Wear a gi if you have one or just show up in comfortable clothing such as sweat pants or shorts and a T-shirt.

You will want and need a gi if you start coming regularly. You can get good quality jiu jitsu gis through the instructor and you can also order Judo and Jiu Jitsu gis online if you wish. The instructor can recommend several reputable outlets.

Background

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was developed by Helio Gracie prior to World War II in Rio De Janeiro. He incorporated traditional Japanese Ju Jitsu with a great number of joint locks relying on leverage rather than strength and speed in order to give a smaller person an advantage. The system proved very effective an ultimately spread to the United States.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gained world wide notice in the 1990s when Royce Gracie, one of Helio's sons, fought numerous matches in the first UFCs, generally against much larger opponents.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a very effective self defense art and is considered by many to be the best form of ground fighting.

Instructors/Affiliates

• Mike Downing: Mike is the Oregon Pound Program Director and head instructor for the BJJ class.
• Wayne Sniffen: Wayne Sniffen is an assistant instructor and is a Judo black belt in addition to holding a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
• Scott King: Scott King is an assistant instructor and also has a Judo background in addition to holding a two stripe blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
• Pedro Sauer: Pedro grew up in Brazil and learned Jiu Jitsu under Helio Gracie. He holds a 6th Degree Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and is currently based in Virginia. Pedro Sauer is considered by many to be the best Jiu Jitsu instructor in the world.

  While not a regular instructor, Pedro Sauer typically visits twice a year to provide instruction. Oregon Pound is proud to be an affiliate of Pedro Sauer.