Article by: Capt Kyle Ho, RPOU(W) Operations Officer
Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Gagetown is recognized as the centre of excellence for the delivery of Army-specific training. CFB Gagetown trains soldiers in the infantry, armour, artillery, tactics, and engineering. In addition to offering individual and collective training, they also provide training in advanced leadership. Soldiers across Canada train at CFB Gagetown for career development and to establish networking with their peers. Besides building comradeship in the classroom and field, many soldiers are provided opportunities to test their minds and bodies through a combat sport hosted by Evolution Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gagetown. As a Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, Capt Kyle Ho, Real Property Operations Unit (West) (RPOU-W) Program Officer decided to attend Evolution Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) while on course in Gagetown. Capt Ho appreciates and respects the art of Jiu-Jitsu and the numerous benefits that it provides, “I visit local gyms while on course to enhance my skills and make new friends. It is a great outlet for stress relief while learning Real Property Management at CFSME. It is a truly an amazing gym with amazing people,
Evolution BJJ, a military affiliate gym, is led by the esteemed unarmed combat instructor, LCol Steven Burgess. With a black belt in Karate, Judo, and BJJ, LCol Burgess' military combative vision of training for combative principle with close, dominant, and finished approaches started to branch out from CFB Petawawa. Evolution BJJ Gagetown, one of the affiliate schools, upholds LCol Burgess's ideology and offers top-tier BJJ instruction under the PSP program. The program is led by a retired Royal Canadian Regiment soldier, Coach Blake, and a serving Combat Diver from the 4 Engineer Support Regiment, Coach Alex. Their expertise and dedication ensure soldiers improve their combat skills while building camaraderie with fellow service members. "It is not just about strength but strategy, leverage, and mental agility. You'll learn how to control opponents regardless of size or strength, giving you the confidence to handle any situation while on duty," Coach Alex explained.
Coach Blake understands the unique demands and challenges faced by military personnel during their time as infantry. Even after retirement, they are dedicated to providing specialized training that enhances physical and mental preparedness. This training is tailored to equip CAF soldiers with the skills needed for real-world self-defence and combat scenarios. Engaging in this type of training will not only provide technical expertise, but it also means becoming part of a supportive community united by a shared commitment to excellence. The gym focuses on lower-body attacks and a complex ankle lock system that is not commonly seen in other traditional BJJ gyms. Coach Blake and Coach Alex are committed to making the program available and safe for all CAF members in CFB Gagetown. "We train hard, but we train safe here. We welcome anyone at any skill level to join our club for the short and long term. Let's evolve and empower ourselves and extend our mission to all base’s from coast to coast." Coach Blake invited all CAF members visiting CFB Gagetown to try out their BJJ program. It is also free for all military members.
Training in BJJ fosters a strong sense of teamwork and discipline, essential qualities for any military unit. Visiting the gym isn't just about improving oneself; it's about strengthening the CAF's collective readiness and resilience as a force. Are you ready to take your skills to the next level? Start your journey at the Military BJJ Gym and unleash your full potential. Train hard, train smart, and defend with confidence! Further information can be obtained by searching for the “Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Gagetown”.
CHIMO!