Unleash Your Missionary Spirit: 10 Months of Daily Hand-to-Hand Combat Training in the Jungle

Are you ready for an experience that will change your life? Picture this: You are standing in the heart of a vibrant jungle, surrounded by the energy of students eager to learn Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) and grow in their faith. Could this be the world's first ever BJJ Missionary? Could YOU be the worlds first and only BJJ Missionary? At the Jungle Discipleship School, you have the chance to become a missionary teacher of BJJ, where you will not only instruct students on martial arts but also mentor them spiritually. This journey is about more than just learning techniques; it is about building a community, developing resilience, and transforming lives.

The Mission Ahead

To become an effective missionary BJJ teacher, it’s essential to grasp the deeper meaning of your role. The mission is not merely to teach techniques but to create a supportive environment where students feel safe, confident, and motivated. As you roll around in the dirt grappling, you'll also be building relationships with our students where you can speak into their faith lives.

Over the ten months of JDS, you'll work with students, focusing on building relationships rooted in trust, compassion, and faith. Daily physical training sessions will instil values of discipline and perseverance that extend well beyond the mat. For instance, participating in one-on-one drills can enhance personal connections while showing students how to approach challenges both inside and outside the training times.

Why Burma and BJJ?

Burma, also known as Myanmar, has a rich history of martial arts, particularly in the form of traditional Burmese boxing, known as Lethwei. Lethwei, which translates to "the art of nine limbs," incorporates the use of punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes, making it a comprehensive striking art. This martial art has deep cultural roots, with its origins tracing back centuries, influenced by the region's history of warfare and self-defense techniques.

The practice of Lethwei is not just a physical discipline but also an important aspect of Burmese culture and identity. Historically, it was used by warriors to prepare for battle and has evolved into a popular sport, celebrated in local festivals and competitions. In recent years, Lethwei has gained international recognition, showcasing the unique techniques and traditions of Burmese boxing on a global stage.

At the Jungle Discipleship School, you will teach BJJ while weaving in the gospel behind it. A simple guard position can open the door to biblical lessons and teaching opportunities. These lessons will not only resonate on the mat but also in life.

Building Confidence Through Daily Hand-to-Hand Combat

Daily hand-to-hand combat training is a core component of your mission. Each time students step onto the mat, they learn crucial lessons about resilience. For example, when students spar against one another, they experience both victory and defeat. Statistics show that 84% of individuals learning BJJ report increased self-esteem and confidence after training regularly for just three months - imagine what you can accomplish with the students over 10 months?

Encourage your students to push through personal limitations and work through difficult emotions. As they practice, they will develop their instincts, learn to respond dynamically under pressure, and foster an unshakeable belief in themselves. Your role is to empower them with support and motivation at every step.We believe that learning BJJ will be a way for our students to grapple with the trauma of their past and provide a healthy outlet for it.

You will also be responsible to oversee all Physical Training (PT) sessions and mentor the junior staff as they lead PT sessions daily. The schedule will be adapted to allow recovery time from BJJ and work on other important exercise plans (i.e. hiking with a load to prepare for mission.) The goal is to instil physical fitness (stewarding ones body) as a important spiritual lesson and daily practice. It is not a punishment or torture time, it is developing a healthy practice and healthy body. You will help mentor and grow the junior staff and speak into their lives practically and spiritually.

The Spiritual Aspect of Training

Your primary duty is in discipleship and sharing the gospel. Your secondary work is teaching BJJ.

You will be expected help teach discipleship classes and participate in all things JDS. How you act and carry yourself within the community will teach the students far more than what you say in a classroom. Your personal, intimate relationship with Jesus should be of daily utmost importance.

Embrace the Challenge

The next ten months may present challenges—moments of doubt, fatigue, and uncertainty. Teaching cross-culturally is not for the faint of heart. However, view these trials as invaluable learning experiences. Every challenge will help you grow stronger, both physically and spiritually.

Understand that the journey includes navigating rough patches, but remember that these moments often lead to deeper connections and breakthroughs. Share your struggles openly with your students, as vulnerability can foster trust and inspire them on their own journeys.

The Journey Awaits

Becoming a missionary Brazilian Jiu Jitsu teacher at the Jungle Discipleship School is a deeply rewarding endeavor filled with purpose. For ten months, you will participate in daily hand-to-hand combat training while nurturing personal and spiritual growth within your students.

Ideal Candidate: A experienced BJJ instructor with a heart for Jesus and making disciples.

Are you ready to unleash your missionary spirit and embark on this adventure? Contact us today to start the journey.

JDS students using the boxing gloves to settle a disagreement