Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Jiu-jitsu is all about overcoming raw power with leverage and technique. At Etobicoke Martial Arts we practice 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, a non-traditional, no-gi jiu-jitsu system developed by Eddie Bravo
Etobicoke Martial Arts is the premier destination for martial arts training in the Greater Toronto Area. Martial artists and athletes from all across the GTA or “the 6,” trust Etobicoke Martial Arts to deliver world-class training across all of the disciplines we specialize in. Whether you are a brand new student or a seasoned competitor, our friendly and knowledgeable staff are fully invested in helping you reach your potential.
At Etobicoke Martial Arts, we are thrilled to offer classes 7 days a week in our brand new 10,000 square foot facility. With over 3,000 square feet of mat space, a fully-equipped training area, and world-class instructors, we are more than ready to help you level up your martial arts skills and achieve your training goals.
Posted May 20th, 2025
When most people think of boxing, they picture fast punches, heavy bags, and high-intensity workouts. But behind the sweat and discipline, boxing offers something even more powerful: stress relief. If you’ve been wondering, “Does boxing relieve stress?” or “Is boxing a good stress reliever?”, the answer is a resounding yes—and today, we’ll show you why.
Boxing isn’t just great for your body; it’s also a proven outlet for mental health. The sweet science provides a unique combination of physical exertion, mental focus, and emotional release that few other workouts can match.
When you’re feeling stressed, your body holds onto that tension—often in your shoulders, neck, and jaw. Boxing gives you an active way to physically release that built-up pressure.
Punching drills, footwork, and bag work allow you to channel frustration in a safe, controlled environment. Instead of bottling emotions up, you get to move through them—and move past them.
Like any high-intensity exercise, boxing triggers the release of endorphins, your brain’s “feel-good” chemicals. After a few rounds on the bag or mitt work, you’ll often feel a post-training high—lighter, more energized, and mentally clearer. These natural mood elevators help reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and everyday stress.
During a boxing session, there’s no room for overthinking. You’re focused on your stance, your punches, your breathing, and your footwork. This mental engagement acts almost like meditation—quieting the noise in your mind and allowing you to be fully present in the moment.
If you’re new to the sport, you might wonder how often you should train to really feel the benefits. The good news? You don’t need to be in the gym every day to experience stress relief through boxing.
Here’s a simple starting point:
On your non-boxing days, consider doing light stretching or yoga to stay flexible and promote recovery.
You can start at home with simple gear—like hand wraps, gloves, and a heavy bag—but for the best experience, joining a gym is highly recommended.
At a gym, you’ll benefit from:
At Etobicoke Martial Arts, we believe boxing is more than just a physical workout—it’s a pathway to mental resilience and emotional well-being. Whether you’re looking to blow off steam, get fit, or build confidence, our boxing classes can help you transform stress into strength.
Our experienced coaches will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you learn real boxing techniques in a safe and supportive environment.
Ready to feel stronger, lighter, and more in control? Join us for a class and discover firsthand why boxing is one of the best stress relievers around!
Posted Apr 14th, 2025
MMA is one of the most effective full-body workouts for building strength, confidence, and mental focus. Even better? You don’t need a gym to get started. With a bit of space and consistency, you can begin training MMA at home and lay the foundation for long-term progress.
Here’s how to build a beginner-friendly MMA routine that works in any home setup.
Every MMA session should begin with a warm-up to get your blood flowing and your body ready to move. The goal is to increase mobility, loosen the joints, and elevate your heart rate.
Try this warm-up sequence:
This quick routine sets the tone and helps prevent injuries during your workout.
Striking is a major part of MMA—and shadowboxing is a great way to work on your form, footwork, and combos without any equipment. It sharpens your technique while keeping your body active and engaged.
Focus on simple drills like:
Try shadowboxing in front of a mirror to monitor your form and movement.
Conditioning is key for any MMA athlete. Home workouts can be incredibly effective with just your bodyweight.
Beginner MMA conditioning circuit (repeat 2–3 times):
These exercises mimic the pace and demand of a real MMA round, improving both cardio and muscular endurance.
You don’t need a partner to start learning grappling. There are solo drills you can practice to develop movement patterns and build muscle memory.
Solo grappling drills to include:
If you have access to a grappling dummy or heavy bag, you can also explore:
If you’re new to MMA, you might be wondering how often you should train to see results. The good news? You don’t need to go all-in from the start. A few structured sessions each week can build a strong foundation.
Here’s a simple starting point:
You can train solo using online tutorials, mobile apps, or even a basic workout timer—but for long-term progress, nothing beats training with a coach.
You’ll get more out of your training in a professional environment with:
At Etobicoke Martial Arts, we understand that MMAis more than just a sport—it’s a form of therapy. Whether you’re looking to blow off steam, build your confidence, or simply improve your overall health, MMA gives you the tools to feel better, inside and out.
Our MMA classes are open to all levels and led by experienced coaches who will help you progress at your own pace. You’ll learn real skills, get an amazing workout, and leave every session feeling more in control of your body and mind.
Ready to turn stress into strength? Join us for a trial class and experience the difference for yourself.
Posted Mar 26th, 2025
If you’re stepping into the world of Muay Thai, one of the first things you’ll need to master is properly wrapping your hands. Whether you’re hitting the heavy bag, working on pads, or sparring with a partner, wrapping your hands correctly protects your knuckles, wrists, and small bones from injury.
Let’s go through a simple, step-by-step guide to wrapping your hands for Muay Thai to keep you safe and ready for action!
Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand why hand wraps are so crucial. Muay Thai involves a lot of striking, and without proper protection, the repetitive impact can lead to bruises, fractures, and even long-term damage.
Hand wraps provide:
Now that you know why hand wraps matter, let’s move on to wrapping techniques that will keep your hands protected.
All you need is a pair of Muay Thai hand wraps, usually 4.5 meters (180 inches) long. Longer wraps offer better coverage and support, making them ideal for beginners learning proper wrapping techniques.
You should wrap your hands every time you train Muay Thai, whether you’re hitting pads, sparring, or practicing combos. Consistency helps reduce the risk of injury and ensures longevity in your training journey.
At Etobicoke Martial Arts, we emphasize proper techniques to ensure our students stay safe and progress effectively. Our experienced instructors guide you through every aspect of Muay Thai, from hand wrapping to mastering striking techniques.
If you’re ready to take your Muay Thai training to the next level, visit us today to experience professional guidance in a supportive environment!
Posted Feb 25th, 2025
When it comes to self-defense, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has become an increasingly popular choice for individuals looking to gain confidence, improve their fitness, and learn practical techniques for real-life situations. Unlike traditional striking-based martial arts, BJJ focuses on grappling, ground control, and submissions, making it an effective system for neutralizing threats, especially against larger or stronger opponents.
So, is BJJ good for self-defense? Let’s break it down by exploring its real-life applications, advantages over other martial arts, and potential limitations.
One of the biggest advantages of BJJ for self-defense is its emphasis on technique over brute strength. Here’s how it prepares you to handle real-world confrontations:
BJJ offers several unique advantages that set it apart from striking-based martial arts like boxing or kickboxing:
While BJJ is an excellent self-defense system, it’s not without its limitations:
Overall, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu remains one of the most effective martial arts for self-defense, particularly for those looking to learn techniques that don’t rely on size or strength. Its focus on ground control, leverage, and submissions provides a practical way to neutralize threats safely and effectively. However, like any martial art, it’s important to recognize its limitations and consider cross-training with striking-based disciplines to ensure a well-rounded self-defense strategy.
If you’re ready to build confidence, develop practical self-defense skills, and improve your fitness, consider trying a BJJ class at Etobicoke Martial Arts. Our expert instructors will guide you through the fundamentals, ensuring that you feel empowered and prepared for real-life situations. Come train with us today!
Visit our website to learn more about our programs and how you can join our community here at Etobicoke Martial Arts. We look forward to welcoming you into our community!
Posted Jan 31st, 2025
MMA is a sport that requires unparalleled versatility. Fighters must combine striking, grappling, and endurance with strength and agility. Cross-training is essential to achieve this, and weight training plays a pivotal role in preparing fighters for the physical demands of the ring.
Let’s explore why weight training is crucial for MMA athletes, how to design a balanced training schedule, key exercises to include, and common mistakes to avoid.
MMA isn’t just about mastering a single discipline—it’s about excelling in multiple areas. Cross-training helps fighters become well-rounded athletes. By incorporating weight training into their routine, fighters enhance their strength, power, and resilience, giving them an edge in the ring.
A well-rounded MMA training program balances skill development, weight training, and recovery. Overtraining can hinder progress and lead to injuries, so planning is essential.
Weight training for MMA focuses on functional strength—movements that translate directly into fight performance.
1. Compound Lifts:
2. Explosive Movements:
3. Bodyweight Exercises:
Weight training is an excellent tool, but it must be integrated thoughtfully. Avoid these common pitfalls to maximize your results:
When combined with skill training, weight training is a game-changer for MMA athletes. It builds the strength and explosiveness needed to dominate opponents while reducing the risk of injury. However, the key is finding the right balance: focusing on functional exercises, scheduling recovery time, and avoiding common mistakes.
At Etobicoke Martial Arts, we understand the demands of MMA and tailor training programs to help you build strength and skill efficiently. Whether stepping into the ring for the first time or looking to refine your performance, our coaches can guide you every step of the way.
Ready to take your training to the next level? Visit us and see how weight training can transform your MMA journey!
Posted Jan 6th, 2025
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is one of the world’s most dynamic and respected martial arts, with a history that blends ancient traditions with modern innovation. Over time, this martial art has evolved significantly, with new systems like 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu challenging traditional approaches. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and highlight how 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu sets itself apart.
The Roots of Jiu-Jitsu in Japan
BJJ’s origins trace back to the classical Japanese martial art of Jujutsu, which focused on grappling and joint manipulation. When Mitsuyo Maeda, a master of Jujutsu, travelled to Brazil in the early 20th century, he taught the art to Carlos Gracie, laying the foundation for what would become Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
The Gracie Influence
Carlos Gracie and his brother Hélio Gracie adapted traditional Jujutsu techniques to create a more practical and effective self-defence system, especially for smaller practitioners. The Gracie family’s innovations helped popularize BJJ worldwide. To learn more about the benefits of BJJ for all ages, check out this detailed guide on Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs.
What is the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu?
Founded by Eddie Bravo in the early 2000s, 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu is a no-gi system of BJJ that focuses on flexibility, unconventional techniques, and adaptability. Unlike traditional BJJ, which often emphasizes training in a gi (the traditional uniform), 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu operates entirely without it.
Key Differences Between Traditional and 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu
Aspect | Traditional BJJ | 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu |
---|---|---|
Uniform | Requires a gi | No-gi only |
Philosophy | Emphasizes fundamentals and gi grips | Focuses on creativity and flexibility |
Signature Techniques | Armbar, triangle choke, gi chokes | Rubber guard, lockdown, twister |
Training Approach | Structured and rooted in lineage | Innovative with open-minded techniques |
If you’re curious about trying out BJJ, look at this MMA training overview to understand what to expect from a typical session.
Adaptability in MMA
With the rise of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), many fighters seek grappling styles that translate well to real-world combat. Since 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu doesn’t rely on a gi, its techniques are ideal for MMA fighters. If you want to learn MMA or incorporate no-gi grappling into your training, visit the MMA training page.
Flexibility and Creativity
Unlike traditional systems, 10th Planet encourages experimentation and developing a personal style. This attracts practitioners who want to blend athleticism with innovative techniques.
Choosing the Right Martial Art for You
Whether you’re drawn to the discipline of traditional BJJ or the creativity of 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, the key is finding a training environment that suits your goals. If you’re located in Etobicoke and want to explore martial arts, Etobicoke Martial Arts offers a variety of programs, including BJJ, Muay Thai, and MMA. With expert instructors and a supportive community, it’s an ideal place to begin or continue your martial arts journey.
Conclusion: Tradition Meets Innovation
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has come a long way from its traditional roots, with systems like 10th Planet adding new dimensions to the art. Whether you prefer the structured approach of traditional BJJ or the free-flowing creativity of 10th Planet, there’s a style for everyone. Ready to start training? Check out the schedule at Etobicoke Martial Arts and take the first step toward mastering your craft.
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