So, you spent the pandemic trapped indoors watching Kobra Kai on Netflix and now that you’re ready to re-enter the world, you don’t want to stop the fun. Or maybe you put on a few pounds in quarantine that you would like to take off. Perhaps you’re a person who got so used to being at home alone that you’re now uncomfortable being out in the real world with strangers again. Being outside your home could make you anxious or afraid. Maybe you’re a young person who had their schooling interrupted by the pandemic and are having a hard time readjusting to social life after such a long break. If any of these sound like you, then this article is for you. Jiu Jitsu classes might be just the answer you’re looking for to all of these problems and more.
History
Jiu Jitsu is a form of martial art that was first developed in Japan in the seventeenth century to complement the sword fighting of trained warriors. Unlike other martial arts techniques, jiu jitsu is designed to use a few or no weapon at all hence, useful in a number of situations.
The name, roughly translated, means flexible art. That is because it is characterized by moves that turn an opponent’s force against them. This means that it is a skill that is available to all to learn, not just the strongest amongst us. Look here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jujutsu if you’re interested in finding out more.
The art form has traveled all across the world and has been the inspiration for several offshoots. One of the most popular is called MMA fighting, or mixed martial arts. There is also Brazilian jiu jitsu, judo, samba, and aikido.
You know that if something has lasted for hundreds of years, it has to be both useful and practical.
Below, we’ll take a look at 6 good reasons to attend jiu jitsu classes.
Self Defense
Probably the first thing you think of when you think of martial arts is self-defense. That’s why we’ve put it first on our list of reasons to attend jiu jitsu class. Learning locks, throws, leg sweeps, pins, chokeholds, and more, will help you in the real world. These are techniques that can be used at any place and any given time. Little to no extra equipment is needed, making it ideal if you find yourself in a dicey situation.
Hopefully, you’ll never find yourself in a compromising situation, but if you do, you’ll be ready.
Strength
This leads well into our next point. Practicing martial arts is a great form of exercise. Not only will it get your heart pumping, but it will also make you big and strong. You won’t end up with glamour muscles, these will be the real deal.
Unlike other forms of exercise, like weightlifting, learning martial arts will create all-over strength. That’s because you won’t be working one or two specific muscles but integrating them all into your moves.
Confidence
Number three on our list won’t come as any surprise if you’ve read the first two. It’s easy to understand that once you strengthen your muscles and gain the ability to defend yourself, you’re going to start moving about the world differently. It’s impossible not to be feeling yourself when you know the skills you have in your back pocket.
Community
Number four on our list is community. Attending a jiu jitsu class can be a great way to make friends. Many facilities offer classes for different ages and skill levels. Classes can be a great way for young children and teens to meet peers that share their interests. Adults can choose their skill level and possibly connect with new friends as well.
You’ll also develop a relationship with your instructor. They will be able to tailor things to your needs and give you the kind of individual pointers that you couldn’t get from videos or reading about martial arts online. That way, you’ll progress faster. And that will feel great!
Competition
The fifth reason on our list is competition. For those who thrive on pressure and enjoy pushing themselves to be the very best, Jiu Jitsu can be a great avenue for that.
You may already be familiar with the types of martial arts that are already Olympic events. These events are wrestling, taekwondo, judo, karate, boxing, and fencing. Starting in 2024, jiu jitsu will join that list. Taking Jiu Jitsu classes in Cape Town could be your first step on the road to Olympic gold!
But that isn’t the only avenue open to you if you decide to pursue Jiu Jitsu. Remember earlier when I mentioned that it is the basis for MMA fighting? Competitive MMA has become enormously popular all around the world. Learning one skill set provides a great basis for the other. Some gyms even offer training in both methods so you can build on both skills at once.
Fun!
The final item on our list, and the most important, is good old-fashioned fun. Why should exercise feel like a chore? When you find something you enjoy doing, research shows that you’re much more likely to stick with it. Ditch the long, lonely hours on the treadmill and take a Jiu Jitsu class, instead!
This can be a great way to introduce physical fitness early in a child’s life. Some gyms offer lessons for students as young as five years old. Finding an exercise your child enjoys – or, even better, one you both like to do together – can build a positive relationship between your child and their body that can last their whole lives long. Click here to read more about the importance of physical activity for children.
Exercise also helps boost mood and energy levels and can be a great way for an overactive child to get out their energy in a positive, appropriate environment.
No matter which reason resonated the most with you, you’ll be sure to find all these benefits and more waiting at your local Jiu Jitsu gym!
