Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Total Body Fitness

by Joseph Decker
(Ohio)

I first started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu when I was 21 years old. I am now 31, and after 10 years of involvement in the martial art, I can truly say it is the best martial art for total body fitness.

Brazilian Jiu-jitsu or BJJ focuses on the major areas of fitness that most people want to improve. Strength, Flexibility, Tone and Endurance are all going to increase with this martial art as well as self-discipline, co-ordination and quick thinking.

BJJ is based on the theory of take-downs, joint manipulation, and grappling. Because BJJ utilizes the entire body, all the muscles are worked.

It is a very intense cardio workout because of the energy expended pushing and pulling against another body. The workouts involved with learning BJJ are focused on plyometric movements, stretching, and cardio.

My advice to anyone seeking to try this martial art is: Shop Around. Find a BJJ studio that is suited to your needs.

There are many BJJ studios that are focused on training Fighters and Competitors that are not suited to someone attempting to increase their fitness level. These studios should be avoided for anyone that does not plan to compete at a local or a national level.

Learning the way that the body can be manipulated and maneuvering against a static force is one of the best ways to increase strength. For those of us that do not want to lift weights or run for long periods to get the body that we want, BJJ is a great alternative.

Joseph

Note from Dr. Dan

Joseph,

This is an excellent example. There are so many different activities that a person can do. It doesn't have to be boring.

Dr. Dan