Get in Shape with BJJ!
There are several reasons why Brazilian jujitsu has become one of the most popular martial arts in the United States today. First of all, Brazilian jujitsu has been proven time and time again to be one of the most combat-effective martial arts. That’s why the military and professional fighters choose to train in the art.
However, did you know that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is an excellent recreational sport for physical fitness as well? In fact, people of all ages and with all body types use Brazilian Jiu Jitsu for increasing strength and cardiovascular health. BJJ is also excellent for flexibility, increasing lung capacity and burning excess body fat.
When you attend a typical Brazilian jujitsu class, you usually start out with stretching and a little bit of conditioning. Every Brazilian Jiu Jitsu school is different, but you may spend time at the beginning of the class running, performing isometric exercises or drilling basic techniques. All of these activities will help you improve your fitness.
After you’re warmed up, your instructor will teach the class new techniques and positions that are relevant to self-defense or competition. For example, you may learn various armlocks, chokeholds or other methods to defend yourself from a variety of attacks. You will practice these techniques with your partner a number of times until your instructor is confident that you have gained a basic understanding of the new technique.
Usually the last 30 minutes or so of a class will be spent sparring or “rolling” with your fellow training partners. Here you will have a chance to grapple and wrestle in a controlled environment with individuals of varying body types and skill levels.
Sparring burns calories, increases your strength and improves muscle tone. One of the best aspects of sparring in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes is the fact that you can see what it’s like to apply techniques when someone is resisting or defending.
Portland Jiu Jitsu Technique: BJJ Ab Training
You don’t have to be a world-class athlete or cage fighter to improve your fitness with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. In fact, the majority of the people you train with will likely be very similar to yourself. These are people who are interested in staying in shape and learning valuable techniques that can help protect them in a dangerous situation. Quite simply, BJJ is an exciting and challenging way to stay fit in a social environment.