Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Grappling in Law Enforcement Training: Impacts on the Tactical Performance of the AT.-P.I. Unit of the Italian Guardia di Finanza

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Grappling are combat disciplines emphasizing takedowns, ground control, immobilization, and submission through dominant positional strategies, without strikes. Their technical principles focus on efficiency, precision, and the exploitation of an opponent’s force, making them highly relevant for law enforcement contexts that require graduated, controlled, and non-violent use of force. This study investigates the physiological and performance responses of specialized police trainees during a simulated use-of-force scenario and examines the potential benefits of integrating BJJ and Grappling into training programs. Thirty cadet officers of the Italian Guardia di Finanza of the speciality “Antiterrorismo e Pronto Impiego”, who received a use-of-force and personal defense training, which included techniques and tactics of BJJ and Grappling, participated in a longitudinal assessment. Measurements included heart rate, maximal isometric handgrip strength, RPE, task completion time, and general physical fitness parameters. Heart rate increased significantly from pre- to post-simulation (p < 0.001), indicating high cardiovascular response. The statistically significant reduction in grip strength after the simulation in both the dominant hand (p < 0.001) and the non-dominant hand (p < 0.002), reflected acute neuromuscular activation and fatigue. The mean simulation completion time was 11’54’’ ± 10’06’’, with a Borg CR-10 perceived exertion score of 7 ± 2. Physical fitness assessments showed mean VO₂max of 52 ± 3 ml·kg⁻¹·min⁻¹, 13 ± 3 pull-ups, 63 ± 13 push-ups, and 116 ± 49 sit-ups. These findings demonstrate the substantial physiological demands of use-of-force situations and support the inclusion of BJJ and Grappling in law enforcement training to enhance operational efficiency, controlled subject management, and minimize injury risk.