I'm a bit on the fence and like the approach of doing "simulated submissions" that I have seen at some tournaments. So the kids can set up the subs, but it's stopped when something is locked up but not applied. They get 4 points and they are stood back up. So kids get a lot of match experience, and still get to work on getting into position for subs.
The arguments for allowing subs are:
- kids like subs
- teaches them to be aware of them so they don't learn bad habits
- teaches them to be aware of subs for the future so they will know what's open when they are older
- it's part of jiu jitsu
- i'm not sure what else
- They are dangerous
- kids don't have as much control so they can hurt each other
- kids don't know when they are in trouble and might not tap when they should
- kids are still growing and getting an elbow hyper extended could have a horrible life long effect
- parents don't like seeing kids get hurt
- i'm sure there are others
So there are some good reasons on both sides of the coin and I can't say either side is completely wrong. Coming from a judo background, as kids only throws and hold downs were allowed until Juvenile, and then chokes and arm locks were allowed. I think since I was that young, it's changed and now, i think, it's tiered so under 15 some things are allowed and under 19 others are. I can't be sure, i'm way out of the loop.
I think, ideally, under 15 or so shouldn't be doing joint locks. Sure, kids are gumby and flexible and would probably be fine, but it only takes one back lock for a kids elbow or shoulder to be ruined for life. Chokes could be fine at a younger age, maybe 12 or 13, worse case scenario, the take a nap, very little damage is done, especially if the refs are on top of things and stop it quick. To me, young kids, 10 or so and younger, probably should be putting submissions on each other, maybe simulated subs, but not full on subs.
I've got friends with strong opinions on both sides of this argument, and would love to here their reasons for/against their opinions.
Do you teach kids subs at your school? Do you want them doing subs in a competition environment? what age do you think is good for kids to start doing subs?