By Lindsay LaChapelle
Skills that just might save your life…that’s what the newest business in the City of Greenwood is aimed at providing.
Owner Joshua Clemmer also operates the Wolf Pack Martial Arts Training Academy in Waldron. Clemmer shared how their methods can help kids overcome issues with bullying, dubbing it the “Bullyproof Program.”
The program developed at Gracie University is “helping kids learn how to deal with bullies, how to avoid a fight but also how to be prepared”. The program is focused on making sure that kids know the difference between self defense and fighting, utilizing the five “Rules of Engagement”:
Rule 1: Avoid the fight at all costs.
Rule 2: If physically attacked, defend yourself.
Rule 3: If verbally attacked, follow the “Three T-steps” (talk, tell, tackle).
Rule 4: Never punch or kick the bully, establish control and negotiate.
Rule 5: When applying submissions use minimal force and negotiate.
Clemmer pointed out that in following the “Three T’s,” tackle, does not mean retaliation on the person verbally attacking you, but rather, tackling the problem head on, not allowing a bully to make you feel as though you need to shy away if confronted. These methods are designed to increase self-confidence and responsibility.
Adult programs are also available to help both men and women increase their self-defense skills. The classes are designed to help those who lack confidence in strength by learning leverage moves and holds that will disable an assailant regardless of stature.
Clemmer concluded that all of the programs offer a free 10-day trial.
Gracie Jiu Jitsu is located at 716 Clinic Street Suite D in Greenwood. The Wolf Pack Martial Arts Academy in Waldron is located at 99 US Business Hwy 71. You can also reach them by phone: (479) 926-5384, and on Facebook.
