Jay Bell and Rob Kahn training
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art, combat sport, and a self-defense system that focuses on grappling and especially ground fighting. This is our specialty. Owner and head instructor of Gracie Farmington Valley, Jay Bell, is a Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belt and has been training in this art for over 11 years. During this time he has had the opportunity to train with and learn from some of the most recognizable names in jiu-jitsu: Royce Gracie, Rodrigo Gracie, Rob Kahn, Marco Delima, John Burke, Marcus Aurelio, Marcio Stambosky, Ryron Gracie, and Rolker Gracie–just to name a few.
MMA
Mixed martial arts (MMA) is a full-contact combat sport that allows the use of striking and grappling techniques, both standing and on the ground, including boxing, wrestling, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Karate, Judo and other styles. The growing popularity of the UFC has lead many people to pursue training in the sport.
Bill Antonitis (right)
Also known as Uechi-Ryu, Shohei-Ryu karate is easily identified by circular blocks and focused strikes. Free of flashy moves, Uechi-Ryu/Shohei-Ryu karate relies on deflecting attacks and countering with efficient techniques. Bill Antonitis, head instructor, is a fifth-degree black belt with 25 years of training and teaching experience.
Boxing
Boxing is, in principle, a sport more than a martial art. Matches are heavily regulated, but, when it comes to punching technique and power, there are few martial arts that are as focused on fist strikes as boxing. Additionally, boxers rely heavily on footwork and the manipulation of angles to gain the upper hand over their opponents. When used conjunctively, these skills make the boxer very dangerous in a fight.
Photo by Dreier Carr
Wrestling is a form of grappling techniques such as clinch fighting, throws and takedowns, joint locks, pins and other holds. A wrestling bout is a physical competition between two competitors or sparring partners, who attempt to gain and maintain a superior position. Wrestling is one of the most important aspects of the MMA game today due to the experienced wrestler’s ability to dictate whether and/or when the fight will go to the ground.
