New LEJJ Program
ZenQuest recently added LEJJ or 'Law Enforcement Jiu-jitsu' to it's line up of programs. This was initiated by partnering with the Pittsfield Police Department to arrange to have a group of its officers train at ZenQuest on a regular basis. The pilot program will consist of positioning, escapes and restraints related to physical engagements in the line of duty. The program will utilize positioning and control strategies from Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, without the ‘submissions.’ The idea is to reduce risks in such situations for both officers and the people that they restrain when the need arises.
Chief Michael Wynn is a long time student at ZenQuest, going back to the days when we were still known as the Okinawan Karate School. For years Chief Wynn and other officers would have discussions with Senseis Connie and Mark about the benefits of Jiu-jitsu training for Law Enforcement Officers. After training for some time, it was obvious to them that Jiu-jitsu training is tremendously beneficial to anyone whose job requires them to engage with people physically at times.
The challenge in implementing a program like this for years was in getting approval for funding. However, in recent years there have been several Law Enforcement agencies that have done trial programs like this with great success. There is actual documented proof that this training helps to reduce injuries for both officers and detainees. There is also proof that this training results in fewer incidents of officers using the tools on their duty belts such as a baton, pepper spray, taser or firearm.
Aside from being better equipped with safe techniques to escape or restrain individuals, this type of training gives officers the ability to ‘scramble’ or move intelligently and maintain control of chaotic situations. Having the ability to control situations better also tends to reduce stress levels for officers, which makes them calmer and less likely to wind up in an escalated confrontation.
The program began on Monday, October 18th and is open to officers from other agencies. At present one class per week is designated specifically for Officer training. The participants are also encouraged to attend additional classes to supplement this. Special thanks to Chief Wynn for his part in launching the LEJJ program.
Chief Michael Wynn is a long time student at ZenQuest, going back to the days when we were still known as the Okinawan Karate School. For years Chief Wynn and other officers would have discussions with Senseis Connie and Mark about the benefits of Jiu-jitsu training for Law Enforcement Officers. After training for some time, it was obvious to them that Jiu-jitsu training is tremendously beneficial to anyone whose job requires them to engage with people physically at times.
The challenge in implementing a program like this for years was in getting approval for funding. However, in recent years there have been several Law Enforcement agencies that have done trial programs like this with great success. There is actual documented proof that this training helps to reduce injuries for both officers and detainees. There is also proof that this training results in fewer incidents of officers using the tools on their duty belts such as a baton, pepper spray, taser or firearm.
Aside from being better equipped with safe techniques to escape or restrain individuals, this type of training gives officers the ability to ‘scramble’ or move intelligently and maintain control of chaotic situations. Having the ability to control situations better also tends to reduce stress levels for officers, which makes them calmer and less likely to wind up in an escalated confrontation.
The program began on Monday, October 18th and is open to officers from other agencies. At present one class per week is designated specifically for Officer training. The participants are also encouraged to attend additional classes to supplement this. Special thanks to Chief Wynn for his part in launching the LEJJ program.
"I was participating in the Law Enforcement Jiu-jitsu (LEJJ) program at ZenQuest for about 3 weeks before finding myself in an altercation with a suspect. The strategies and techniques I learned in my short time at ZenQuest, enabled me to effectively and safely gain control of, and restrain the subject until back up arrived. The incident also resulted in no injuries to either of us. I believe that prior to starting LEJJ, most of the strategies and techniques I would have used to resolve that encounter, would have posed a higher risk of injury to myself and to the subject. 5/5 stars."
Nick S.
Nick S.
LEJJ Class
Monday: 5:15 - 6:00 PM
Participants may also attend ANY of the other Adult classes at ZenQuest
Note: LEOs and other first responders receive a significant discount on enrollment. For more information contact us at 413-637-0656, or email at train@zenquestmac.com.
Participants may also attend ANY of the other Adult classes at ZenQuest
Note: LEOs and other first responders receive a significant discount on enrollment. For more information contact us at 413-637-0656, or email at train@zenquestmac.com.
Some local news coverage . . .
