Youngsters are learning important life skills that will serve them well in the future, while adults are picking up valuable tips about self protection at a local fitness club.

And it’s all thanks to Brazilian jiu jitsu classes hosted by Fitness Unlimited in Washington.

“What we’re trying to do is teach kids how to deal with bullies, how to stand up for themselves,” said jiu jitsu instructor and personal trainer Aaron Edwards. “We teach them very specific steps to follow when they deal with bullies, like trying to avoid fighting at all costs. But if they are physically attacked, we want them to know how to defend themselves.”

The children’s camps at Fitness Unlimited do not advocate fighting and physical violence, Edwards was quick to point out.

“We’re actually trying to avoid that,” he said. “The more confidence they have in themselves the less likely they are to get into something.”

The kids camps, which run for three weeks, are open to youngsters between 7 and 12 years of age. Another camp is planned for July. Meanwhile, adult classes began last fall and continue to be held two nights each week on an ongoing basis.

Annette Cutler was so inspired by her jiu jitsu experience in the adult classes that she signed up her 10-year-old son Trey for June’s kids camp.

“It has given me a sense of empowerment,” said Cutler, a teacher at Washington High School. “It helps me problem solve and it relieves a lot of stress. I love it, and it’s a great workout, too.”

The adult classes are much more physically demanding compared to sessions designed for the younger students, according to Edwards.

“Jiu jitsu is very realistic,” he said. “You know what it feels like. It’s one of the most realistic of the martial arts.”

The first class for any interested adult or child student is offered free of charge, Edwards added. While adults must be members of Fitness Unlimited to qualify, there is no such requirement for children and anyone youngster in the community is welcome to register for kids camp.

For more information about Brazilian jiu jitsu classes, call Fitness Unlimited at 252-975-7400 or email Edwards at edwardsab545@gmail.com.