Ju jitsu is a practical martial art suitable for persons of any age, shape or size. It generally focuses on self defence in modern situations such as on the street, but also embraces more traditional aspects such as kata and weapons. It is a great way of getting and keeping fit, as well as providing you with the skills you need to defend yourself.

Ju jitsu can be applied in many situations that may occur in today's world such as muggings, robbings or rape. Ju jitsu shows you how you can use your body to greatest effect in order to defend yourself against the majority of assailants, with 'minimum effort for maximum effect'.

Strength and fitness are not the most important aspects, although they do help, (the fitter you are, the easier you will find the training) as using blocking, locking and throwing techniques plus knowing how to strike effectively, means you can use your opponent's strength against them, allowing you to fight back and win.

The confidence you gain from being able to defend yourself shows through, and potential attackers are likely to look for an easier and weaker target, not unlike predatory animals.

OEL, based in Essex, runs clubs in Ongar, Epping and Loughton; and are currently run by Senseis Lee Bywater and Tony Park ['Sensei' means 'teacher']. Details below:

OEL Ju Jitsu is part of Jikishin Ju Jitsu Association and the British Ju Jitsu Association. It is also ClubSX Accredited [Gold Award].

As well as regular classes on Fridays, Mondays and Sundays, there are many other events such as gradings, courses, competitions, parties and fun days-out. These are open to anyone who trains at OEL, though many events require a Budo Pass - a Ju Jitsu Licence, which is essential for all ju jitsu training; however you are welcome to train for a few weeks before deciding to take out a licence and continue training.

So if you would like to come along to any of our clubs and start out with some of the basics of self defence then please, you are more than welcome.