[div class=”notice” class2=”icon”]The following is from an article on DstryrSG, part of the MiddleEasy Network.[/div]
So much has been said about the inherent connection between the strategy and mindset of the game of chess and the art of and sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (or submission grappling, in general, for that matter). Chess is a thinking man’s (or woman’s) game. It requires a tremendous amount of preparation and strategic thinking and action as it is played on a turn by turn basis progressing toward the win by checkmate (or forfeiture). Jiu Jitsu is similar in that the “players” or combatants, especially as they increase in their level of sophistication and skill, must plan and set-up their opponant as their fight progresses toward the end result of tapout or submission.
The truth is, if your rolling with or fighting me on the mat, it’s probably gonna look a lot more like a game of Stratego played between two 9-year olds (of average intelligence). But, in the end, I’ll take out your General and take your dumbass flag, no problem.
We’ve been friends with the Adisa Banjoko of Hip Hop Chess Federation, aka the The Master of Iron Hook Submission, for years now. He does a lot to raise awareness of the benefits of chess and Jiu Jitsu and the relationship between the two (along with hip hop, as well). Have a look at a killer video, the concept for which was created by Adisa mashing up the hip hop, chess and Jiu Jitsu. It was directed and edited by Mike Relm and features Henry Akins, Rener Gracie, Alan “Gumby” Marques, and Rakaa Iriscience. Alot went in to this and it, suffice it to say, it’s a beautiful thing.
