1. Introduction
In the world we live in today, it’s hard to find time to relax and de-stress. We are constantly bombarded with news, social media, and work. It’s important to find an outlet to release your built-up stress. For many women, men, and children in the Clarksville, Tennessee area that outlet has become Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
A form of martial arts that focuses on grappling and ground fighting, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a great way to get a full body workout while also learning self-defense. For many, the best part about Jiu-Jitsu is the mental aspect of it.
In a world that never seems to stop swiftly moving, Jiu-Jitsu forces you to be present in the moment and to think about what you are doing. It is a great way to clear your mind and to focus on the task at hand. Jiu-Jitsu can help you to be more present in your everyday life and to be less stressed.
2. What is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or BJJ for short, is a form of martial arts that focuses on grappling and ground fighting. BJJ is most popularly known for its uniqueness in allowing a smaller, weaker person to successfully defend themselves against a larger, stronger opponent. The technique used in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu enables the practitioner to utilize leverage and proper technique to defend themselves, rather than relying on strength or size. Because BJJ helps teach often smaller stature individuals how to properly use their leverage against larger opponents or attackers it has become a powerful tool for victims of domestic violence and bullying.
Beyond the self-defense advantages provided, BJJ is also an enjoyable and effective form of exercise. It is a full-body workout, as it requires you to use your entire body to apply the various techniques taught in BJJ. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, you will be working up a sweat and improving your physical strength and cardio.
Another overall benefit of BJJ is to the mind. Jiu-jitsu offers an escape of sorts, as it requires practitioners to stay present and concentrate intensely on their movements and techniques. This can be an excellent way to de-stress after a long day. Jiu-jitsu also offers an opportunity to practice self-discipline, as practitioners must be focused and controlled in order to perform the techniques provided.
3. The benefits of stress management through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
The benefit of stress management through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are obvious and numerous. BJJ offers an opportunity to step back from the hectic lives that many of us lead and take the time to concentrate on something productive. An hour or two of rolling around on the ground can help put your life into perspective and help you gain a sense of clarity.
When we are in stressful situations, it is often difficult to stay in control and think rationally. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a great way to teach you how to maintain self-control and stay calm but focused. BJJ teaches you to think on your feet, assess the situation, and respond to it in a calm and measured manner.
Furthermore, one of the main concepts of BJJ is using leverage to overcome size or strength differences. This helps to build autonomy and self-confidence. Practicing BJJ requires a lot of focus and attention to detail, allowing you to learn new techniques and sharpen your skills.
In summary, the benefits of stress management through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are clear to see. It allows you to step back from your daily hustle and bustle and focus on yourself. It teaches you self-discipline and control, while building your strength and confidence.
4. How to get started with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
If you are interested in practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, here are some tips for getting started.
1. Find a local school.
The best way to get started on any martial art is to find a local school. Research for a reputable school with experienced coaches and a good atmosphere. Local to the Clarksville area, Renzo Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and combat sports boasts over 9 different Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructors, a large youth program, growing female team, and a decorated competition team. Additionally, their membership packages include a free membership program enhancement add-on. Choose from judo, boxing and muay thai, wrestling, or fitness and conditioning. Sign up for a three-class free trial at renzogracieclarksville.com.
2. Start with classroom instruction.
Before jumping into sparring, attend a few classes to learn the basics and understand the fundamentals of the art. This will ensure that you gain the most out of your Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training sessions and give you the confidence to spar in the future. Each Friday a free-to-the-public ‘Introduction to BJJ’ class is offered at Renzo Gracie Clarksville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Combat Sports. Many other schools offer similar programs. Learn more at renzogracieclarksville.com.
3. Observe a few sessions.
After you have familiarized yourself with the basics and techniques, the next step is to try out a few guided sparring sessions or, simply observe a few sparring sessions. This will help you to understand the flow of a match and put the techniques into practice.
4. Sign up for private lessons.
Once you are familiar with the fundamentals of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, you can start to practice your techniques. Take advantage of private sessions with experienced coaches to fine-tune your technique and develop your overall game.
5. Join open mats and competitions.
As you become more and more proficient in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, join open mats and competitions to further test your skills and learn from others. We highly recommend Clarksville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Combat Sports for their weekend open mat sessions on Saturday and Sunday. Not only are they completely free, often members from outside gyms join in making it a great opportunity to learn from people across the middle Tennessee BJJ community.
5. Conclusion
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an incredible martial art which can help you manage stress, build self-confidence, and hone your technical skills. For those interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, the steps for getting started are straightforward. You should first research for a reputable school with experienced coaches and then attend classes to learn the fundamentals of BJJ. If you are in the Clarksville, TN area consider visiting Renzo Gracie Clarksville Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Combat Sports. They even offer a free Intro to BJJ class and an additional three class free trial. After familiarizing yourself with the basics, you can start to observe sessions and then move on to private lessons to fine-tune your technique and develop your overall game. Finally, you can join open mats and competitions to further test your skills and learn from others.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can become a great source of mental, physical and spiritual health. By regularly joining classes, participating in open mats and rolling with a variety of people, you can master this beautiful art and reap the rewards of a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. So, if you’re looking to reduce stress while still enjoying an enjoyable physical activity, why not give Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu a try?
