Bravo Company 2 RAR has had the rare opportunity to receive Military Self Defence (MSD) training from some of the most highly acclaimed martial arts fighters in Australia.
The training week showcased coaching in Brazilian Ju-Jitsu from both Paulo Guimaraes (third Dan black belt holder and BJJ world champion teaching in Australia) and one of his students Thiago Braga (first Dan black belt holder and one of Australia’s top competitors). Both instructors are from the internationally franchised Roots Brazilian Jiu Jitsu club that also has a branch in Kirwan Townsville with Eric Lemoine.
After a days worth of introduction the tempo was advanced with more specialised methods to subdue your opponent being taught.
Members from around the Battalion were very keen to take advantage of the rare opportunity with even OC B Coy, MAJ Eccleston stepping onto the mat to be twisted into a pretzel.
On Tuesday morning the Bravo Company had the opportunity to repay the two instructors by inviting them along for a battle PT session consisting of a stores carry to the Lavarack pool for a swim session followed by some bayonet training on the Company parade ground.
“I had an excellent time both training and being trained by the soldiers from Bravo Company. It was a pleasure instructing these men as they were all very keen to learn and because they are Infantry soldiers already posses the necessary self discipline which underpin martial arts training. I also think it is very relevant to instruct soldiers in these skills as warfare is the origin of all martial arts.” Paulo Guimaraes.