The Benefits of Using Jiu Jitsu as Your Primary Workout

It's easy to get overwhelmed by all of the different workout programs available and ways to help keep you fit. You find yourself asking things like, "How do I lift weights AND train Jiu Jitsu?" Or, "How many days should I be training BJJ and how many days should I be lifting?" 

If you find yourself in this situation, we have good news; you can absolutely use Jiu Jitsu as your only workout and still gain strength, gain flexibility and improve your cardiovascular health, while also gaining control and defense skills for the street.

Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, offers lots of benefits beyond self-defense. In this article, we will discuss the the advantages of using Jiu Jitsu as your primary workout and how you can train BJJ on your own time, even without a gym.

Full-Body Workout 
By nature, Jiu Jitsu is a combat sport that engages your entire body, leading to a comprehensive and efficient workout. Whether you're working takedowns, practicing submissions, or just flow rolling, the intense physical demands of Jiu Jitsu work virtually every muscle group. This leads to increased strength, improved cardiovascular health, enhanced flexibility, and boosted endurance, all from one workout. Will it Jiu Jitsu make you look like a body builder? No. But always ask yourself what your primary goals are, then focus on that. For most of us, we'd rather be better at grappling than at bench pressing. 

Functional and Practical Control and Defense Skills
One of the primary draws of Jiu Jitsu is its practicality in real-life self-defense situations. It's one of the most realistic martial arts, which also allows you to train it against full resisting opponents with low risk of injury. 

Mental Health and Problem-Solving Skills
While Jiu Jitsu offers many physical benefits, its mental advantages are equally important. The intricate techniques and strategy required in Jiu Jitsu help improve mental sharpness, agility, and problem-solving skills. Sparring involves intense focus and the need to anticipate and react quickly enhance mental resilience, concentration, and the ability to think under pressure. It also teaches you how to be comfortable when you're uncomfortable. All of these things have carry over into your every day life, not just on the mats. 

Stress Relief and Mindfulness
Training Jiu Jitsu is a great stress reliever and a means of achieving mindfulness. Perfect for those who have stressful jobs such as Police Officers or other first responders. The physical intensity and mental engagement provide an outlet for releasing stress, frustrations, and negative energy. Additionally, Jiu Jitsu requires mindfulness and being in the moment, allowing you to tune out distractions and develop a heightened sense of awareness. Over time, this will have a significant, positive impact on your life.

Using Jiu Jitsu as your primary workout not only provides a physically demanding, fun and engaging way to stay in shape, but also offers a multitude of other benefits. From a full-body workout to practical self-defense skills, mental sharpness, stress relief, and a supportive community, Jiu Jitsu provides a holistic approach to fitness and personal development that you can't find anywhere else.

Want to Start Training Jiu Jitsu On Your Own Time? Download The Jiu Jitsu Five-O App 
In today's digital age, Jiu Jitsu apps and online classes have become valuable tools for practitioners. They offer a wide range of features such as video tutorials, technique breakdowns, classes and even direct access to high-level instructors. We created the Jiu Jitsu Five-O app to help practitioners of all levels enhance their BJJ skills, learn new techniques, and provide you with top-tier Jiu Jitsu training, even without a gym membership or access to a consistent training partner. Check it out in your favorite app store and see how we can help you on your Jiu Jitsu journey. Oss!