(Curated Article via: thesportsdaily.com – Ted Winters)
Taking jiu-jitsu classes is something that most people can really benefit from. Contrary to popular belief, jiu-jitsu is not just for athletic people or people who want to compete in it professionally. It does not have a particular group that should participate in it. A good jiu-jitsu class is tailored to fit the needs of the people in that class.
Here are five benefits of taking the class:
- It will help you lose some weight and get fit
In jiu-jitsu, it is quite easy to find yourself losing a lot of weight that you had previously struggled to lose while doing some other weight loss programs. Losing weight through jiu-jitsu is a lot easier because you will tend to focus less on the calories and the minutes you are spending on the exercise, and you focus more on the techniques and the opponent in front of you instead. Another reason jiu-jitsu is so good for weight loss is that it works out all the muscles in the body and not just certain areas.
- You will learn self-defense
Jiu-jitsu classes are good for anyone who is looking to learn self-defense techniques. Jiu-jitsu will teach you how to face off an opponent and get the upper hand. Self-defense skills are basic life skills that every individual needs to learn no matter your age. Jiu-jitsu is a great way to learn how to defend yourself and protect your loved ones using the jiu-jitsu techniques. Jiu-jitsu also helps you to develop the confidence and knowledge that you will need to protect yourself.
- It’s a great way to relieve stress
One of the best ways to relieve stress and let off some steam is by engaging in physical exercise. Jiu-jitsu offers a great avenue for stress relief as it gives a way to relieve pent-up pressure in an aggressive exercise in a controlled environment. Very many people take up jiu-jitsu to help them cope with the everyday pressures of life and to help them deal with stress. Jiu-jitsu can also help you deal with anger as you have something else to focus your anger and energy at in a safe environment.
- It teaches important life skills
In jiu-jitsu, strategy and problem solving are king. These two life skills are very important for everyday living. Whenever two people are facing off on the mat, they need to think critically and apply problem-solving skills quickly to gain the upper hand on their competitor. They also need to strategize on how to recapture their partner if they are down. This is why jiu-jitsu isn’t all about physical strength and agility it’s about mental strength too.
- It energizes
Jiu-jitsu like other physical exercise leaves your body feeling revitalized and full of energy instead of worn out. This fact is scientifically proven as regular exercise is said to increase the number of mitochondria in our cells. This is why it is a good idea to do your jiu-jitsu class in the morning if you can. You will face the day at school or work with more focus and energy than when you haven’t worked out.
Andy Gonzalez is a coach at Aces Jiu Jitsu Club. He has earned his BJJ Brown Belt under 2nd Degree Black Belt, Professor Mikal Abdullah. Follow Andy on Twitter at @GoGoGonzilla
Andy lives in Austin, Texas with his wife Amanda and their 3 beautiful children. Andy is also the father of a Marine who is honorably serving in the United States Marine Corps.