Empower Yourself with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art and a sport in its own right. It falls under the category of combat sport, but requires close contact with the opponent. Signature moves include grappling, locking, and ground wrestling.

Many people, especially UFC fans, enjoy watching BJJ matches. It looks thrilling from a distance. And when you see the fighter you're rooting for overpower his opponent, you cheer with the crowd.

While anyone can casually take on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for personal or fitness reasons, there is certainly more to this combat sport than meets the eye. Some people may have their own opinion and preconceived notions about it, but fighters, MMA gym goers, and MMA fans tell a different story.

Perhaps you'd be interested in mine.

Benefits of Learning BJJ

I am an MMA enthusiast. I don't personally practice the sport but I regularly go to an MMA gym in Melbourne. My forte is Muay Thai (kickboxing) since I tend to be sloppy when it comes to hand-to-hand combat.

On occasion, I attend BJJ classes just to access other aspects of fitness that Muay Thai couldn't address. It is little wonder why Judo and Jiu Jitsu are often taught at military schools. Both are designed for self-defence. And while Thai boxing enhances my "attacking" skills, BJJ makes me more equipped to defend myself.

Those who are prejudiced against this sport need to understand its real purpose. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not a tool for violence. Learning it can be beneficial as long as you learn it the right way from the right people.

That's the first take away.

Second, BJJ reinforces self-discipline. MMA, or any martial arts for that matter, can help you focus on a goal. Whether want to be fit, reduce weight, carve more muscles, know how to defend yourself, or become an ultimate fighter, BJJ's systematic learning process helps you put all your energies into achieving that goal. Without focus, learning would take some time and it's frustrating when you can't keep up with everyone else.

Motivation matters.

This is something I'd like to share with everyone. For you to be able to achieve your gym goals (whatever the underlying reasons may be), do not be too hard on yourself.

Although this sounds so contradictory, what I'm driving at is to embark on a fitness journey while maintaining a balanced mindset.

It's important to keep your focus but know your limits. Do not force yourself to be like other gym goers or aspiring fighters. Your capacity differs from them. There are some things you can do and something only they can do.

Moreover, you motivations may vary. Other BJJ learner may want to be fighters. Others may simply want to be fit and agile (like me). If you fully understand your reason for learning Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you'll be able to enjoy this martial art without any feelings of frustration.