Ground Fighting
in SBL

Ground fighting is the first phase of the SBL syllabus. It develops familiarity with low postures, body support and the transitions that connect positions.

Gelek and the four ground arts provide a framework for studying movement, control and application.

Gelek refers to twisting or coiling. It introduces a way to explore how the body changes orientation and connects postures.

Study the movement slowly enough to recognise where your weight is supported and how the next position becomes available.

Kucing introduces the Cat aspect of SBL ground practice. It provides a setting for exploring mobility, agility and changes of position.

Begin with the postures and pathways introduced by your instructor. Develop a controlled movement base before progressing to more demanding variations.

Footwork helps place you at an appropriate distance and angle. It also affects your ability to recover or continue after an action.

Give attention to how you arrive at a position. A familiar strike may need a different entry when the distance or direction changes.

Buaya introduces the Crocodile aspect of ground practice. It explores low movement and the connection between the upper and lower body.

Work with patience and attention to control. The quality of the transition matters more than the speed at which you complete it.

Kura-Kura introduces the Turtle aspect of the ground arts. It includes practice from the back and develops familiarity with movement from that position.

Learn how the postures relate to support, available space and the next action, using appropriate variations for your current ability.

Ground fighting requires a different understanding of balance, pressure and positioning.

Students learn how to move between positions and maintain connection while working with a partner.

Ground fighting connects naturally with other areas of SBL.

Standing movement can lead to takedowns.

Takedowns can lead to ground fighting.

Ground positions can create opportunities to transition back to standing.

The principles remain the same even when the environment changes.