Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling based martial art that involves ground fighting and submission holds. It is both a system of self-defense and a combat sport. Although founded in Brazil, it has its roots in the Japanese art of Judo.
As the popularity of martial arts has increased and MMA moves to the forefront of sports coverage, BJJ has become a widespread choice for learning a new skill. There are plenty of reasons to try BJJ, but what are some of the benefits of taking up the sport?
Physiological Improvements
Just 30 minutes of rolling can burn up to 500 calories. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu works every muscle in your body, challenging the cardiovascular system, building strength, and increasing flexibility and balance. A study published in Sports Medicine found that BJJ students ranging from beginner to elite had low body fat percentages, significant aerobic and anaerobic fitness, and muscle power and strength. Expect to get fitter, stronger, leaner, and more flexible due to joining BJJ classes.
Mental Wellbeing
In addition to physical benefits, BJJ also offers a host of mental benefits. Regular exercise is as effective at decreasing symptoms of depression and anxiety as medication. Martial arts, in particular, allow students to release pent-up feelings and help to reduce stress. Users also report higher self-confidence and self-esteem as a result of their training.
BJJ is a very technical sport and, as a result, requires a fair amount of focus and concentration. This not only improves your ability in these areas, but it also has a meditative effect. By being fully absorbed in your learning experience, you can relax and forget about any worries or obligations, at least for a little while.
Self-Defense
BJJ is one of the world’s most effective forms of self-defense. It is becoming increasingly common that law enforcement officers learn BJJ as a nonlethal way of de-escalating assailants. Submissions were purposefully designed so that even a smaller person can subdue a larger one, particularly in a way that is not permanently damaging to them.Â
Practice and sparring over time develop a keen sense of awareness of both self and surroundings. You will be built up to perform at near 100% capacity, which means you will be fully trained should you ever find yourself in a dangerous situation.
Community is an integral part of being human. Joining a BJJ gym opens you to a new group of people you share a common interest with. You will share many emotions with them: joy, success, frustration, anger; they become like a second family. Because it attracts a diverse range of backgrounds, you meet people from all walks of life. Martial arts is a lifelong journey, and your training partners will be there to support and witness your growth.
Comments