1. Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just about your physical health. Rather (and, perhaps, even more so), it’s about your mental health, too – which benefits a lot from the Gentle Art.
   World-famous actor Tom Hardy understands this well. As a purple belt who keeps winning Jiu-Jitsu tournaments, Hardy competes in front of the REORG team.

Here’s what Hardy had to say about the REORG charity in a recent Instagram post:

REORG is a global non-profit organization and community that encourages and enables veterans, active military, and first responders to use Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Physical Fitness Training as a form of therapy to overcome physical and mental challenges, strengthen social connection, and improve overall health and well-being.

Their work has changed and saved lives around the world by not only providing an effective, positive means for navigating and managing the challenging psychological aspects of military and first responder careers; but also has allowed many to find a renewed sense of purpose, identity, and community that’s often lost when transitioning to civilian life.

The topic of mental health is close to Hardy’s heart. And BJJ has been a great tool for it:

Addiction is difficult and complex stuff to navigate; as is mental health. Subjects which are both deeply personal for me and extremely close to my heart.
It is an honour to be able to represent the charity and my team REORG and the great work they do supporting the mental health and well-being of veterans of service, military and first responders through the therapeutic benefits of Jiu-Jitsu and fitness training.

Simple training, for me (as a hobby and a private love ) has been fundamentally key to further develop a deeper sense of inner resilience, calm and well being.
I can’t stress the importance it has had and the impact on my life and my fellow team mates.