Fitness Formula Clubs Strikes with Martial Arts

PRLog (Press Release) - Jul 09, 2010 -
Fitness Formula Clubs Old Town (located at 1235 N LaSalle Blvd, Chicago, IL), has raised the bar in martial arts by taking the meaning of this sport to a whole new level with their renowned Carlson Gracie Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training, Muay Thai instruction, and its newest addition, Kids Martial Arts classes.

What is Jiu Jitsu? The difference between Jiu Jitsu and and other martial arts is plentiful; there is no kicking, chopping, or striking of any kind, the sport is referred to as ‘grappling’, and is closer to wrestling than any other martial art. The famous Gracie name speaks for itself, as it was the legendary Gracie brothers (Carlos & Helio) who founded Brazilian Jui Jitsu in the 1920s.  Carlson Gracie, Sr., Carlos' son, was known as the Grand Master, an excellent trainer and physical combat strategist. His son, Carlson Gracie, Jr., trained with his father until Carlson Sr.’s untimely death 3 years ago. Many of Carlson Gracie Jr’s students include police officers from special operation units in several cities, including Chicago.

The father and son team founded the Carlson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy at FFC Old Town in 1998.  FFC Old Town Fitness Director Natasha Tsoutsouris is an avid participant in Jiu Jitsu and holds a Grappling championship title herself. “Jiu Jitsu is fantastic for self defense and, if you’re emotionally involved, it’s a fantastically challenging spiritual journey,” says Tsoutsouris. “Jiu Jitsu is often called ‘mental chess’, as it uses a lot of strategy, problem solving, and leverage to overtake your opponent and not just by brute force.” Jiu Jitsu attracts both FFC Old Town Members and a large non-member base; many non-members are referred to classes through word of mouth and the internet.

In addition to Jiu Jitsu, FFC Old Town also offers another form of martial arts training called Muay Thai. Muay Thai is a form of kickboxing made famous in Thailand that has quickly spread in popularity throughout the U.S. Using kicks and punches with the feet, hands, knees, and elbows, this sport is perfect for those who want either a great workout and/or to learn self defense.

The Kids Martial Arts program at FFC Old Town is gaining momentum because it combines both kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu while teaching kids discipline and focus. They also have loads of fun while training with a certified martial arts trainer. If you are in the nearby suburb of Oak Park, FFC Oak Park (located at 1114 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL) has started a new Kids Taekwondo program running through August 19.  

For more information on any of the above classes, contact Regional Fitness Director Scott Lewandowski at sl@ffc.com.