How Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Builds Strength and Confidence
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial arts style that has seen a surge in popularity over the last few decades. Many people are drawn to BJJ for its dynamic movement, potential for competition and practical applications for self-defense. But did you know that in addition to those benefits, practicing BJJ can also help you build strength and confidence?
When you enter a typical BJJ class, whether online or in-person, you’ll find yourself among students from many walks of life. From young kids to professional athletes and everyone in between, everyone comes together as equals on the mat. Regardless of size or experience level, anyone can learn how to use leverage and technique instead of relying solely on brute strength. This allows someone with less physical power than their opponents to overcome them; it is an excellent way to bolster confidence since size doesn’t matter once skills are learned.
The mental challenge offered by BJJ encourages your growth by pushing your boundaries. You have the opportunity to step out of your comfort zone while still remaining safe thanks to instructors who constantly emphasize safety and respect during class. The euphoric feeling you get when grappling with opponents is due in large part to endorphins released during physical activity as well as mental stimulation.
On top of all that, one major benefit of regular practice of BJJ is improved overall strength and conditioning. Not only does rolling with other practitioners mimic real life scenarios that require physical exertion; the mechanics behind almost all the positions found in training encourage strengthening muscles even without the use of weights or other equipment generally associated with traditional workouts outside the dojo walls. No matter what your goals are—better joint health, more lean muscle mass or better cardio—you can achieve them through consistent practice of BJJ movements such as sweeps and escapes, guard passes and submissions holds such as armbars and guillotines!
In summary, there are countless reasons why people choose to study Brazilian Jiu Jitsu – self defense being a major factor – but one thing many students find after practicing regularly is increased strength and confidence both mentally and physically. It provides an outlet that encourages growth while promoting kindness, respect among peers no matter their size or experience level; plus it gets you into phenomenal shape which further increases self esteem. Who wouldn’t want all these amazing benefits? So what are you waiting for – lace up your Gi pants and head down to the mats!
