“Jiu-Jitsu Without Limitations” is an all-inclusive approach to self-defense training through the art of Jiu-Jitsu, designed for everyone from able-bodied individuals to those with independent limited mobility, including people with spinal cord injuries, amputations, certain levels of autism, and cerebral palsy.
In many academies, there’s uncertainty around adapting techniques for individuals with physical or cognitive limitations, with classes often focusing only on techniques suited to fully able-bodied practitioners. Our program changes that approach by focusing on the abilities of all students and creating a single, integrated class where everyone learns together. Instead of a separate program, we offer an inclusive environment where all students, regardless of ability, learn the same techniques simultaneously.
Our founder, Maximiliano Ullork, has been training with a spinal cord injury since 2012, utilizing only his upper body without core engagement. Having trained in Jiu-Jitsu for five years before his accident, he understands the art both with full-body mobility and with upper-body-only adjustments. This experience allowed him to develop a unique program where most students with independent mobility, regardless of physical limitations, train together, fostering a strong sense of equality, belonging, and teamwork.
How We Differ
Physics of Jiu Jitsu
The physics of Jiu-Jitsu is all about leveraging body mechanics, leverage, momentum, and force to control or submit an opponent. Here’s a breakdown of how physics applies to some key concepts in Jiu-Jitsu:
1. Leverage
• Jiu-Jitsu is known for allowing a smaller, weaker person to control or submit a larger, stronger opponent. This relies on maximizing leverage rather than brute strength.
• Leverage involves applying force at a point far from the fulcrum (or pivot point) to multiply force. For example, in an armbar, applying pressure near the wrist rather than the elbow maximizes the leverage, making it easier to hyperextend the joint.
2. Momentum
• Using an opponent’s momentum against them is a core principle. For instance, during a sweep or throw, if an opponent is moving forward, redirecting that movement off-balance can make them fall more easily.
• This is often seen in techniques like the scissor sweep or hip toss, where timing and angle are crucial in redirecting an opponent’s forward energy.
3. Center of Gravity and Balance
• Control of one’s own and the opponent’s center of gravity is crucial. A stable, low center of gravity (such as in guard positions) makes it harder to be moved or swept.
• Conversely, getting the opponent’s center of gravity off their base helps destabilize them, setting up for sweeps or submissions. For example, techniques like the hip bump sweep capitalize on moving the opponent’s center of gravity.
4. Pressure and Weight Distribution
• Skilled Jiu-Jitsu practitioners use pressure to control their opponent by maximizing force over a small area. Pressure passing in guard, for instance, involves placing weight on specific points to restrict movement and exhaust the opponent.
• Proper weight distribution also maximizes control, especially in dominant positions like side control or mount, making it harder for the opponent to escape.
5. Torque and Joint Locks
• Many submissions use torque to apply rotational force on joints, forcing the opponent to tap out. Joint locks, like the kimura or Americana, twist the shoulder or elbow, applying pressure in a direction the joint doesn’t naturally go.
• Understanding how to apply this rotational force efficiently helps maximize control without requiring excessive strength.
6. Angle of Attack
• Positioning at optimal angles reduces the opponent’s ability to resist or escape. By adjusting angles, you can minimize your energy expenditure while maximizing control. For example, moving to an angle in closed guard makes it easier to set up arm locks or chokes, limiting the opponent’s ability to defend effectively.