# 10 Reasons to Start Training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Today If you ever had the idea to start BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) but always made excuses, don’t worry. People are curious about it but afraid of doing something, because they don’t know what the impact is going to be.” Maybe you think it’s just for fighters and super-athletic people, or maybe you’ve seen some matches on YouTube and said, “I’ll never be able to do that.” But really, BJJ is for all — of any age, size or athleticism. It’s one of the most rewarding pastimes you can engage in. So whether you’re trying to get in shape, learn how to defend yourself or looking to make new friends while stepping out of your comfort zone: there’s no better time than now. Well, here are 10 convincing reasons why you should begin training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu today. # It’s one of the best self defense systems on the planet When it comes to real life self defense, very few martial arts are as effective as Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. BJJ is a grappling art, in contrast with strike-based martial arts that use punches and kicks. That way, you learn how to defend yourself on the ground if a situation does end up there (which it often will in a real fight). And the best thing about BJJ is that it doesn’t require any brute power. It all comes down to technique, leverage and body positioning. The little guy can hold its own against larger and stronger enemies if they know how to use these leverages. At Piratebjj [Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym](https://www.piratebjj.com/), you’re learning how to remain calm and "breathe" control when in a bad situation and use the proper moves. Techniques such as escapes, submissions and sweeps will be drilled until they are second nature. The more you practice, the more that confidence will extend beyond the mat and into your life. It changes how you walk among them, knowing that should things go wrong, you can handle yourself. # You Will be in the Best Shape of Your Life No more boring hours on the treadmill or monotonous reps at the gym. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a full-body workout that never feels like one. It strengthens and flexes, withstands and coordinates all at the same time. You really use your core nonstop, work muscles you didn’t even know you had, and burn an insane amount of calories each class. Each session combines technique drills, live ro(l)ling (sparring), and conditioning too so you’re always moving. It’s tough, but it’s also fun — and you’ll see results fast. After a month of training, many people discover they are leaner, stronger and have more energy than ever before. And it’s far easier to stay the course when you actually like what you’re doing. The sense of community at places like Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym makes workouts feel more communal than obligatory. We all motivate each other and laugh and sweat together.” There is something motivating about learning new skills and getting better just a little bit. And finding that new challenge often requires hacking your fitness boredom factor aka the workout routine you’ve followed, really since anything has been on anyone’s radar screen. And perhaps BJJ will be your new favorite workout journey because it brings out the martial artist in you. # It Builds Unshakable Confidence There's something empowering about knowing that you can handle yourself under pressure. BJJ gives you more than physical skills- it builds mental toughness and confidence that bleed into every aspect of your life. You meet challenges every time you get on the mat. You win some, you lose some, you get tapped out by someone half your size. But each of those moments is a lesson. You come to understand that the only time you grow is when you push through discomfort. You will come away from classes feeling accomplished, even when you falter. Later, that stance carries over into work, school and life. You will not fear failure with timing on your side because you would have learned to recognize it as part of the process. At Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym, you will be with people who were once in your shoes — a little nervous at the beginning but growing more and more confident with each class. You will see how hard work and consistency pay off. Such an environment naturally boosts your self-esteem. Confidence isn’t about being over other people; it’s about having faith in yourself — and BJJ helps instill you with just that. # It’s a Fitness for Your Brain as Well as Your Body They call Brazilian Jiu Jitsu “human chess” for a reason. It’s a game about strategy, puzzle-solving and prediction. Your eyes are on your opponent, moving as he or she does as you step and plan your next move. Every roll (sparring session) is a combination of physical exertion and mental arithmetic. That’s because the more you practice, the sooner you’ll start thinking a few moves ahead. You will learn how to stay calm under pressure, flexibly adapt and make good decisions even when you are tired. And that mental acuteness extends into your personal life as well. You will find you are able to deal with tense work or home situations with cooler heads and clearer minds. Coaches at Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym frequently focus on the mental aspect of training as much as the physical. They will teach you not to panic, how to breathe through difficult places and where to look for a creative solution when something doesn’t work. It’s practice for your brain as much as your body — and it can be addictive once you start to get the hang of it. # You Will Be Part of a Community That’s Welcoming and Friendly Getting To Know Who You Train With One of the best things about training BJJ, or any other martial art, is the people that you will meet. The neighborhood is incredibly community-oriented and welcoming. We all remember being the new guy who couldn’t tell a sweep from a submission, so they help you along. Whether a coach is tweaking your grip or a training partner is cheering you through a tough roll, their goal is to make sure you always feel like one of the crew. You will feel like family the first time you enter our doors at Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym! They span all walks of life — students, professionals, parents — but they share a common enthusiasm for learning and getting better. It’s one of those places where respect and humility matter more than ego. You’ll cheer one another on, laugh at your missteps and perhaps even make friends for life. (Many people find that their are some of the best friends they’ll ever have. If you’re seeking a productive environment with motivated individuals, the BJJ world might be just what the doctor ordered. # You Learn to do Discipline and Regularity BJJ is not something you learn in a few weeks. It’s a lifelong pursuit and that is what makes it so rewarding. The belt system — white to black — denotes a journey through time, effort and development. Every class you take, every error you commit and every technique you perfect counts. It’s the hardest thing to learn but once learned gives discipline like no other. At Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym, You will learn that progress isn't about being the most talented person in the room. It is about showing up, doing the hard work and keeping an open mind. Some days it will feel amazing, and other days you’ll feel like you are starting from scratch. But every session develops mental toughness and grit. That same brand of discipline frequently extends to other areas of your life. You’re going to become more organized, more patient and more focused on long-term goals. BJJ teaches you that nothing good comes it tolerates time — and those are lessons worth learning on the mats and off. # Boosts Your Ability to Manage Stress and Anxiety Life can be a lot, and we could all use some kind of release. One of the most effective forms can be Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to clear one’s mind. Once you are on that mat, you can’t think about emails, bills or the concerns of everyday life. You are completely there for the person with you, attending just to what is right in front of your face. That kind of intellectual pause is not something we experience often in our fast-moving world. Endorphins are a byproduct of physical activity and BJJ gives you a lot of that. But it’s not only about the workout — it’s also about connection. Training with others, laughing after spazzing out when rolling too hard and sharing that post-class fatigue help us feel a part of something. You’ll leave class tired but mentally rested. At Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym, several of its members say the training has helped them de-stress, sleep better and even battle anxiety. Physical activity while being mindful and social all make a positive difference to your mental health. It’s therapy, but way more fun and active.” # You’ll Learn Humility and Respect It’s not possible to train BJJ and not get humbled — and that isn’t a bad thing. At least you’ll soon learn that there is always someone better, faster or more experienced than you. Getting tapped out is a lesson in itself, and it’s the tap that reminds you to remain patient and respectful. There is no faking it through BJJ. You receive it based on your time and effort. This mentality is further encouraged by training at Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym. Each other is a coach and team mate with a mutual respect for each other No matter what belt you have around your waste. And you appreciate the skill and hard work that goes into every move – even when it’s your opponent who’s pulling it off. Eventually, you’ll notice how that humility plays out in everyday life as well. You will be more empathetic and understanding toward challenges and people. Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons Humility It reigns in your ego and allows for growth, as a martial artist and as an individual. It’s one of the most unappreciated, yet powerful benefits to be gained from BJJ. # It Enhances Coordination and Body Awareness Not to mention a new most of us never experience. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu shows you the way in which your body moves, reacts and balances that most are totally unaware of. You will become more aware of your posture, breathing and coordination. Every one — from a basic guard pass to a triangle choke — requires timing, precision and control. You’ll begin to sense how subtle changes can have a big impact on both strength and leverage. And even if you’re not a sports person, you’ll become more athletic through BJJ. You will move more smoothly; react more quickly; become better attuned to your body’s mechanics. That knowledge can avert injuries, and also benefit your performance in other types of physical activities. Think at Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym we concentrate on teaching you to move effectively rather than with force. You will learn how to properly use your weight, control your breathing and conserve energy. Soon you’ll find your balance, flexibility and coordination increasing — on and off the mat. # It’s Just Plain Fun Last but not least — BJJ is a whole lot of fun for obvious reasons. There’s that addictive feel of learning something new, trying it out and seeing yourself get better. You’re able to push and challenge yourself both physically and mentally in a way that is never boring. No two classes are the same, and always something new to learn. The combination of problem-solving, physicality and camaraderie leads to a type of enjoyment that’s difficult to describe unless you experience it. You’ll cry, fight, sweat and win little battles every time you work out. Before you know it, you’ll be scheduling the rest of your week around class times. They come because they love being at Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym. The coaches foster an environment where people can learn and have fun no matter their skill level. Your face will hurt from smiling after each class — probably your arms too, but you’ll be glad every time. # Final Thoughts Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is much more than just a self defense class – it’s a way of life that can change the way you understand yourself, and how you fit into the world around you. The benefits extend well beyond the mats — from improved fitness and mental clarity to self-defense and community. So if you’ve been pondering giving it a whirl, stop second-guessing and dive in. Just step through the door and tie that white belt, and see where the next path with take you. Whether fitness is your goal, gaining new skills, or just an enjoyable way to stay healthy while having fun, Piratebjj Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gym has what you are looking for! You will be amazed how much you grow — not just as a martial artist, but as a human.