Balance and flexibility are both extremely important for people of all ages. They both help prevent injury and contribute to a better posture, muscular development and overall fitness. Here are some specific ways that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can help you improve these two vital traits:

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You learn how to use leverage when moving an opponent

By practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu you will learn how to use another person’s momentum to help you apply your techniques. This requires you to become more aware of your own sense of balance and leverage.

Stretching is of vital part of Brazilian jujitsu

You will stretch before every single class that you take in Brazilian jujitsu and these stretches are designed to help prevent injury and make it easier to apply various techniques. Over time you may see an improvement in your hamstrings, quadriceps, triceps, biceps, abdominal muscles and even the muscles in your feet!

 

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Practicing takedowns helps you develop your core and center of gravity

Takedowns are an important part of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and they are also extremely valuable for helping you improve your center. Understanding balance is essential to taking your opponent down in BJJ.

 

Portland Jiu Jitsu Technique: BJJ Choke from Crossbody

 

 

Sweeping your opponent on the ground teaches you how to become more balanced

In order to sweep your opponent from the guard or any other position, you must have an understanding of how to take your opponent off-balance. Many instructors use the “table” analogy to explain how you can sweep someone in BJJ. Removing two legs of a table on any side will cause it to topple over and many BJJ sweeps rely on you controlling “two legs of the table.”

All sorts of martial artists cross train in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to improve their balance and flexibility these days. From kickboxers to Karate black belts, everyone can benefit from studying BJJ. In fact, many of these martial arts don’t teach very much in terms of groundwork and this leaves a big vulnerability in their overall fighting strategy. But you don’t need to be a fighter to benefit from the art!

Anyone can enjoy BJJ, regardless of his or her background or experience. If you have ever attended a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class, then you will know that there are all skill levels and age groups that enjoy the sport. The bottom line: If you’d like to take your fitness to the next level, then you should definitely consider Jiu Jitsu.