(Published December 27th, 2023)
Are you stuck in a fitness rut, repeating the same exercises day in and day out at the gym? Everyone knows it’s important to stay fit, but traditional gym workouts become repetitive and boring.
Sure, running on a treadmill or lifting weights can get you in shape, but let's be honest, they're not exactly fun. That’s why they're called workouts – because they feel like work! And no matter how you slice it, maintaining a regular workout regimen is tough. It starts with good intentions and motivation, but motivation is fickle. When it inevitably wanes, you're left relying on discipline enforced by willpower, a finite resource that's all too easy to exhaust before you even get your daily workout in. If only there was a more enjoyable way.
But what if there was a better way? One that appeals to your natural instincts.
When my boy was younger he loved roughhousing – he still does, to be honest. He’d do something mischievous to catch my attention, like standing in front of the TV or tossing a pillow at me. Then he’d stare at me defiantly with a big old grin on his face.
I would of course respond by holding him down and tickling him until he was overcome with laughter.
“Are you going to stop?” I’d ask.
“Yes, Daddy! I’ll stop!” he’d promise.
Then, moments later, he'd be back at it, full of giggles and energy. And he’d keep at like that for hours. The game required no discipline or willpower on his part, yet it was an incredible workout (for both of us)!
What if I told you there’s an adult equivalent to this game?
I’m talking of course about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). It’s essentially the same game. You aim to make your opponent give up, but instead of tickling, you use submission holds.
BJJ is a grappling-based martial art that emphasizes ground fighting and submission holds, leveraging technique over brute strength. This approach makes BJJ accessible and beneficial for people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels.
The physical benefits of BJJ are extensive, offering a full-body workout that blends cardio and strength training. It also offers benefits of joint mobility and flexibility. Each session presents new challenges as you learn and apply various techniques. This constant process of learning and application keeps both your mind engaged and your body active, leading to improved overall fitness.
Practicing BJJ means learning to stay calm under pressure, solve complex problems in real-time, think strategically, and face challenges head-on. This fosters patience, discipline, and resilience which extend far beyond the mats and into everyday life.
Furthermore, BJJ cultivates a profound sense of community. As a practitioner, you become part of a team. Training partners turn into a second family, bound by mutual respect and support. This community aspect is incredibly motivating and rewarding, providing a sense of belonging often absent in traditional gym settings.
If you’re tired of conventional workouts and ready for a change, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu might just be the alternative you're looking for.