So I've never trained BJJ but my work are offering free beginners sessions at our HQ Officer safety training unit on a Wednesday evening.
Given that I've studied karate for years, is this a good idea? I'm not interested in competition or anything like that but do think that a little grappling knowledge can do no harm?
Yes, it's a good idea.
I shall pop along and see what it's all about then
It depends I suppose....
As I understand, most fights tend to end in the ground eventually and knowing how to get out of that situation intelligently is definitely a skill Jiu-jitsu can teach you. Getting up on your feet after that? Not so much.
Go for the fun, keep what makes sense to you.
I have had a few BJJ lessons, and it's great for developing a skill set you get nowhere else--fighting on the ground.
Sport BJJ will not transfer 100% to self-defense applications because you can't strike and a lot of people just pull guard. But there will be a lot useful that you learn.
I think you'll find it interesting. If the teacher is good, it will probably be a very valuable addition to your practice. At the risk of stating the obvious: tap early and often when you are training, and be careful of any strains or pressures on your neck.
Also, many BJJ schools will absolutely teach you how to break contact and get back to your feet. If you want to try this as a sparring strategy, at least initially, it may be worth exploring.
Best of luck,
-J
I actually think anyone who has done Karate for years should take the time to study a grappling art if they can, there is so much it adds to your Karate.