Grappling with Trauma: BJJ for First Responders
Official title: Grappling With Trauma: Evaluating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Trauma Symptom Reduction Among First Responders
Run by Sam Houston State University · NCT07783516 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This program tests whether eight weeks of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be tied to changes in trauma-related symptoms for first responders who prefer movement-based activities over traditional mental health services.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 8 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Sam Houston State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Conroe, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | May 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | May 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | August 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07783516 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Current first responders who are 18 or older, experiencing trauma-related stress, and able to attend BJJ classes twice weekly in or near Montgomery County, TX.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals who do not experience any change in trauma-related symptoms or who cannot reliably complete daily/weekly measures may not notice benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The study uses a single-case research design to follow each participant over eight weeks of beginner-level BJJ classes, with twice-weekly sessions and daily/weekly measures of mood, stress, and PTSD symptoms. Participants complete brief journals and a post-program interview to share experiences with emotional regulation and overall well-being. This is a non-clinical exploration to see if BJJ could offer supportive benefits for trauma-related distress among first responders, without diagnosing or treating PTSD. Data will describe symptom patterns and personal experiences, contributing to understanding non-traditional options for well-being in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved emotional regulation, reduced trauma-related distress, and greater overall well-being through a physical activity they already engage in.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research with veterans and law enforcement suggests BJJ can support emotional regulation and distress reduction, but studies in the broader first-responder group are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion 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
Where it's running
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Research Site
Conroe, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Lindsey D Taylor
- Email: ldt018@shsu.edu
- Phone: 713-444-8348
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.