Integrated Ground Fighting Systems (IGS), established by Sifu Jeramiah Giehl, is a groundbreaking hybrid system that revolutionizes the world of grappling. Born out of the rich legacy of Bruce Lee's original student, Sifu Larry Hartsell, IGFS seamlessly combines elements from various grappling arts. This blog post aims to explore the essence of IGFS and its unique approach to ground fighting.
The Legacy of Sifu Larry Hartsell:
Sifu Larry Hartsell, renowned as a bodyguard to the stars, instructor, and an original student of Bruce Lee, played a pivotal role in the evolution of martial arts. His brainchild, the Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do Grappling Association, laid the foundation for IGFS. Drawing on decades of experience, Hartsell integrated techniques from Jeet Kune Do, Judo, Russian Sambo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Greco-Roman and Freestyle Wrestling, Japanese Shooto, Filipino Dumog, Indonesian Silat, and Catch As Catch Can Wrestling.
A Reality-Based System:
IGFS is not just a grappling system; it's a reality-based approach to fighting in the grappling range. Sifu Hartsell's vision was to create a no-nonsense system that could supplement any martial art style or stand alone as a complete means of self-defense. The system focuses on sensitivity, flowing with positioning, escapes, takedowns, throws, lockups, and ground fighting.
Influence of Paul Vunak's KinaMutai:
To enhance its effectiveness, IGFS incorporates Paul Vunak's KinaMutai asymmetrical grappling system. This integration further diversifies the skill set, providing a well-rounded approach to ground combat. Under the guidance of Sifu Jeramiah Giehl, an Associate Level Instructor in the Jun Fan Jeet Kune Do Grappling Association, IGFS is exclusively offered at Cali Combat Systems.
Curriculum and Training Approach:
IGFS emphasizes practicality and functionality in its curriculum. From takedowns and throws to counters, reversals, and strong yet tight positions, practitioners delve into the nuances of grappling. A special focus is placed on developing kinesthetic perception—feeling when to flow from position to position and preventing unfavorable situations.
Self-Defense Applications:
For self-defense, IGFS takes a unique approach. It acknowledges that size and strength become irrelevant with proper technique and constant practice. The system incorporates elements from South East Asian grappling methods, enhancing the practitioner's ability to control an opponent with minimal harm. Techniques involving pinching and biting pressure points, along with strikes using elbows, knees, and head-butts, are explored.
Versatility in Applications:
IGFS caters to various needs, from tournament preparation to practical self-defense scenarios. The curriculum covers submission drills, isolation wrestling, and the strategic use of strikes in different grappling positions. Understanding this system provides a profound perception of self-defense, especially for one-on-one situations and controlling aggressive individuals without causing harm.
Conclusion:
Integrated Ground Fighting Systems stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of martial arts. Born from the wisdom of Sifu Larry Hartsell and refined under the guidance of Sifu Jeramiah Giehl, IGFS offers a holistic and adaptive approach to grappling. It is not just a system; it is a philosophy that empowers practitioners to navigate the complexities of ground combat with finesse, control, and a deep understanding of the martial spectrum. Enroll in IGFS at Cali Combat Systems to embark on a journey of self-discovery and mastery in the realm of integrated ground fighting.
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