How Jiu Jitsu Training Can Change Your Life

If you ask any person who studies martial arts why they train, you will likely receive as many different responses as you have people being asked. And in the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, when you go a little bit deeper, and ask why people spend so much time, effort, and resources in such a pursuit is worth their investment, you will find that their responses generally follow a common thread. 

Strength/Health/Fitness 

This may sound too obvious, but this is perhaps the most immediate physical change and benefit from training in BJJ. You will find that you have become physically stronger, more agile, and with increased stamina and cardiovascular fitness. You may notice significant weight loss. You may find that the quality of your sleep improves. BJJ training is also an amazing stress reliever. 

Patience/Problem Solving Under Pressure

The pacing of a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu match is marked by bursts of physical activity interspersed with periods of subtle physical readjustments. The nature of the sport requires patience and planning under difficult circumstances. In certain scenarios, you will find yourself thinking moves ahead and planning to move your opponent for a choke or a submission. In other scenarios, you will find yourself in a defensive posture, and planning accordingly to prevent a submission, or simply keeping an aggressor locked up until you plan and execute a reversal. This type of learned-response thinking is invaluable in the real world. You will find yourself more able to respond to unexpected circumstances with clarity and find a focused response, rather than acting in haste. 

Ego Management/Humility

In any competition, there are winners and losers. Life often presents unexpected circumstances where “you don’t win ‘em all”. And it’s often the case when the largest and strongest person on the mat winds up losing to an opponent who may be physically smaller, but better prepared.  BJJ provides a healthy reinforcement of this concept in a controlled environment that provides an opportunity for growth by turning a loss into a learning opportunity. 

Confidence/Positivity

This is another “obvious” result of training in a combat sport, but BJJ training develops confidence in one’s abilities, and unlocks potential. Knowing that one possesses the ability to defend themselves adds a quiet confidence, and opens up additional possibilities. Find how training in BJJ in Newport News can help you with confidence and discipline by contacting Breakaway Jiu Jitsu.

Calm/Composure

In everyone there is a “fight or flight” response when exposed to perceived immediate physical danger. There is a difference in how people with direct experience with controlled personal physical violence handle that fight/flight response. An intimacy with physical contact in a combat sport relieves the panic response, and carries over into one’s personal and professional life. Stressful situations become opportunities rather than obstacles.  

Healthy Habits (are habit-forming!)

It’s been said that it takes between two and eight months for a behavior to become a habit. And healthy habits are worth forming. According to an article in Medical News Today, regular exercise is a source of endorphins, the “feel good” chemical reward produced by the brain. BJJ training is a source of a full-body workout that reinforces itself.

Social/Community

The Brazilian Jiu Jitsu community is supportive of training at all levels. From the beginner/white belt, to the instructor level, there is a community that supports your journey and provides fellowship on and off of the mat. Begin your journey with Breakaway Jiu Jitsu in Newport News. Call today 757-223-0373