Photo by Daria Kochetkova Photography. IG: Tebezvonu.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is not just a sport, it is a way of life, a lifestyle. Once you have experienced one or two classes, I guarantee you will be hooked. Have you ever wanted to start a martial art but are worried about getting hit in the face? Well this is the perfect opportunity. It is a very effective way of defending yourself but can be brutal too. This sport focuses on dismantling your opponent by using momentum and leverage.

Many individuals have stated BJJ has helped them to feel more relaxed in stressful situations, as well as boosting confidence, and increasing self-esteem. Not to mention the fact that you get to have a second family! The people you meet on the mats become more than just friends. You share all sorts of memories and journeys together. I forgot to mention, you WILL share blood, sweat, tears and the odd hair in the mouth…literally. There will always be people you can turn to for advice or even to lend an ear. It will be your new safe haven!

We often hear stories about how bjj inspires people. Lifestyle change, confidence change and even body change is an everyday occurence once you start bjj. BJJ No Gi world champion Josh Hinger recently talked about how jiu jitsu specifically helped him get on his path and just how it changed him:

“From ages 14-18, I had wrestling. I started jiu-jitsu when I was 21. But from 18-21, I was a lost soul. My life consisted of parties, too much drinking, graveyard shifts for minimum wage, and community college (which I wasn’t very good at but I used to convince myself that I didn’t completely suck at life).

Just before my 21st birthday I was arrested for pubic intoxication and spent the night in the drunk tank. I remember sitting next to a guy who looked like the 20 year old version of Snoop Dogg. He was completely passed out but with his eyes half open. The next morning I was released and eventually got a $250 fine, a restricted drivers license, and a massive reality check.

About two months later, I stumbled upon jiu-jitsu and my life had purpose again. I had found something to be passionate about. I won’t say jiu-jitsu saved my life, but I have no desire to see what kind of circus my life would be had I never discovered it. Train hard, my friends… And appreciate the good days, as well as the bad, because even a bad day of jiu-jitsu is a good day of jiu-jitsu.”