Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) practitioners are known for their intense passion for the art. As a first-degree black belt myself, I share that enthusiasm. Jiu-Jitsu fosters a beautiful and fulfilling lifestyle. But when it comes to law enforcement, it’s important to acknowledge that BJJ may not be the most suitable defensive tactic on its own.
Before dismissing this perspective, I encourage officers to keep an open mind as they read on.
The legal and tactical limitations of BJJ in law enforcement
In many states, applying a BJJ “choke” during a use-of-force incident automatically escalates the encounter to a deadly force situation. Having personally used choke techniques hundreds of times without causing injury or permanent harm, I disagree with that legal interpretation. Nevertheless, it’s the reality in several jurisdictions — once you apply a choke, you’re potentially crossing into deadly force territory.
A better option, in my view, is the lateral vascular neck restraint. I’ve found it to be both safer and more effective for dealing with actively resistant or combative individuals. Still, many departments and state oversight agencies prohibit its use. Regardless of personal beliefs, officers must follow departmental policies and use-of-force guidelines.
Why a ground fight isn’t always the right fight
Another shortcoming of traditional BJJ training is its lack of emphasis on strikes and small joint manipulation. This can create training scars, such as developing comfort with being on the bottom. While most fights may end up on the ground, nearly all of them start on our feet. In my own use-of-force encounters, I’ve resolved several incidents quickly using standing joint locks that rely on mechanical advantage rather than pain compliance — keeping the fight off the ground and out of the emergency room.
Unfortunately, many BJJ instructors view their discipline as the one-size-fits-all solution. This mindset can be dangerous. Mixed martial arts history has shown that no single style is sufficient. Strikers struggled when taken to the ground, and BJJ practitioners often floundered when they couldn’t bring the fight to the mat — especially against skilled wrestlers.
Engaging a suspect on the ground is often the most dangerous situation, particularly when you’re carrying a firearm or other weapons. Being entangled on the ground with a suspect limits your mobility and compromises your ability to maintain a reactionary gap. The risk of the suspect gaining control of your weapon is significantly higher in these scenarios.
Building a balanced defensive tactics foundation
So what’s the solution?
Your defensive tactics program should be built on a modified Western wrestling or MMA base, with BJJ serving as a cornerstone — not the entire structure. I’m not suggesting ground combat should be excluded. Statistics show you’ll likely end up there at some point. But your focus should be on staying on your feet, and if you must go to the ground, maintaining a dominant top position.
Avoid developing habits like pulling guard or “butt scooting.” These tactics, while common in sport BJJ, are counterproductive and can put officers at greater risk. Under extreme stress, we revert to what we know best. If your training has conditioned you to go to your back, that’s exactly what you’ll do during a real fight.
A small mindset shift — training with the goal of achieving and maintaining top position — can dramatically improve both your effectiveness and survivability. Supplement your training with basic striking techniques that can serve as distractions or entry points, and give priority to takedowns and wrestling skills.
Jiu-Jitsu is an excellent tool for developing body awareness and control, and when used correctly, it can be incredibly effective. Any training is better than none, and officers who invest their own time and money into training deserve recognition. I applaud those efforts.
But I also encourage all officers to reflect critically on what — and how—they’re training. Make sure your tactics align with the realities of your profession.
Stay safe, stay sharp and keep serving with dedication.
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