RECRUITING Not applicable ClinicalTrials.gov

Grappling With Trauma: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for First Responders

Sponsor: Sam Houston State University • ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT07783516

Registry updated: 2026-08-27

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Description

This study explores whether participating in an 8-week Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) program is linked to changes in trauma-related symptoms among first responders. Many first responders experience ongoing stress or exposure to traumatic events, and some prefer physical, movement-based activities rather than traditional clinical services to support their well-being. In this study, participants will attend BJJ classes one to two times per week for eight weeks. They will also complete short daily and weekly questionnaires about mood, stress, and well-being, write brief weekly reflections, and participate in a one-on-one interview after the program. The study aims to understand both symptom patterns and participants' personal experiences with emotional regulation and overall wellness during the program. This study does not provide mental health treatment and will not diagnose or treat PTSD. Instead, it examines whether BJJ, as a non-clinical physical activity, may offer supportive benefits for first responders.

Interventions

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Program (Behavioral)
Participants engage in an 8-week Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) program delivered in a community martial arts academy. The intervention consists of beginner-level, instructor-led classes that emphasize controlled movement, breath regulation, positional problem-solving, and partner-based training. All participants attend the same type of classes and may modify activities as needed for safety. The BJJ program is a non-clinical, movement-based activity intended to support somatic regulation, emotional regulation, and relational connection. Participants complete daily behavioral rating scales, weekly PTSD symptom measures (PCL-5), and weekly journal reflections throughout the intervention. The program is preceded by a baseline phase with no BJJ participation and followed by a 4-week post-intervention phase to observe maintenance or change in symptoms. No randomization or masking is used; all participants receive the same intervention.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria: * Current first responders (law enforcement, fire fighters, EMS, dispatch) * Adults (18+) * Experiencing trauma-related stress * Able/willing to attend BJJ classes twice per week * Able/willing to complete daily and weekly measures * Located in Montgomery County or nearby areas Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals younger that 18 years of age * Individuals who cannot safely participate in physical activity * Individuals who cannot complete daily/weekly measures * Individuals who are not current first responders * Individuals who need a higher level of care

Conditions

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Trauma and Stress Related Disorders Occupational Stress Emotional Regulation Difficulties Anger Problems Relational Problems Irritability

Locations

Research Site — Conroe, Texas, United States

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Official Source

Data sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov, a service of the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

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