I will start off with a story regarding Tiger Woods: It was said at one point in his golf career, he decided to make a change in his style of swing. He knew the new swing would make him better, but to learn this particular swing he knew he may have to lose a bit in the process. When he grasped the new swing fully he believed it would ultimately make him a better golfer for the long-term. For someone to take that risk at such a high level tells me he is a perfectionist regarding golf technique, and he sees technique as an integral part of his golf game.

Learning Jiu-Jitsu is like anything else in life: if you work hard and smart at it, then you will get good at it.

First and foremost, if you have an injury or medical condition I suggest you consult your doctor. Jiu-Jitsu is termed the gentle art, but it can be very brutal on your body. Most—if not all—of your body parts are engaged during many instances of BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU drilling and sparring. It is very naive to believe you can start something new such as BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU and expect to partake in sparring or even drilling with any type of serious injury. I am not saying an injury will completely stop you, but just take the necessary precautionary measures that your doctor advises you to take.

If you are injured but still want to learn BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU, you can certainly go to class and take notes. The only problem with this is that many want to train and do, and when they do they often aggravate their injury. Know your limits. Be smart. It is better to be safe and train for the long haul by holding off until your injury has fully healed.

Some of you may come in with certain advantageous attributes. Being a good athlete may help you have an edge on the rest of the beginners and often even some of the experienced people in your class. Obviously, athletic ability and functional strength will help you in many areas when it comes to sports. Being athletic and in shape can make you less injury prone and potentially give you more “wind.” Many also believe that having a strong grip can help you.

Don’t always choose to rely on your incoming strengths as your staple; if you do it can impede the process of learning BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU. Include what you have to start with, but let your mind and technical prowess lead the way.

Come down to Arashi Do and try out one of our great Brazilian programs like Fundamental BJJ, Women’s Only BJJ or Children’s BJJ for ages 4-7 and 8-14.  All those and you get a 30 DAY FREE TRIAL!  What are you waiting for?  Call or text us at 780-220-5425 or email us at myackulic@ArashiDo.com