On any given week in North Virginia, theres always some young man or woman discovering the legacy of Bruce Lee. And, more often than not, this either leads to, or is connected with an interest in MMA. Fairfax, for instance, is a place where people are quickly discovering the benefits of taking up the sport, and in the process of learning, finding out exactly just how the legendary martial artist is tied into its history.

For Bruce Lee fans everywhere, his legacy has found a new venue with the rise of MMA. Fairfax fans in particular are happy, as renowned studios in the area allow them easier opportunities to study their idols martial art.

What's the Connection With Bruce Lee?

Bruce Lee is accepted as the founder of the modern martial art known as Jeet Kune Do or JKD. And for many Northern Virginia teachers of MMAFairfax instructors, Arlington trainers and coaches all over the state theres one martial art thats just as good and as effective as it looks in the movies: Bruce Lees Jeet Kune Do.

In fact, when it comes to training, some studios in the area offer Jeet Kune Do as preliminary training proof that many of the instructors agree on the fact that knowledge in the martial art specifically attributed to Bruce Lee definitely helps with the sport.

Whats So Great About Jeet Kune Do?

Fans all over the USA find this martial art a wonderful way not just to connect with the legend, but a way to keep his legacy alive as well. With its direct, straightforward and practical yet dynamic moves, Jeet Kune Do serves well as a primary discipline. Disciples of JKD often find the transition to Mixed Martial Arts easier than those of the more traditional forms.

Minimum Movement, Maximum Effect

Extreme speed, intercepting your opponent before he makes his move, and a smooth flow of various techniques characterize Bruce Lees moves, and these are extremely useful when fighting in MMA. Fairfax-based students dont need to go all the way to Asia to train, there are studios nearby to equip them with the different 'tools' needed for different situations. These include kicking, punching, trapping and grappling with minimal movement transitioning to the different styles needed for various situations.

This is made possible by the flexibility JKD affords. Bruce Lee himself referred to it as a "style without style", or "the art of fighting without fighting". Unlike more traditional martial arts, there are no fixed patterns or rigorous principles more than being in tune with ones body. In fact, the art of expressing the human body is perhaps what defines this martial arta reaction to traditional styles which Lee believed had become too stylistic, rigid and unrealistic for the needs of real combat, which is spontaneous and unpredictable.

The Perfect Beginning

While it is fairly obvious that JKD is not all that makes up MMA, Fairfaxs fans do find it a perfect way to start their foray into mixed martial arts. With its flexibility and adaptive nature, it is easier to transition into other disciplines for the truly rounded experience that characterizes the sport.