Roll With It: How to Grapple the Fear of Starting Jiu Jitsu Training
Live sparring in our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Gi Class. Three white belts and on Blur Belt.
There are countless benefits of learning a martial art. In addition to physical conditioning and coordination, the mental discipline you learn can greatly improve your life.
This is especially true with jiu jitsu.
Unfortunately, many people are often too intimidated to sign up for their first class. But, you'll have to take this dive if you want to begin honing your skills.
Not sure where to start? Don't worry, we got you covered.
Let's take a look at everything you need to know about conquering your fears and starting jiu jitsu.
You'll Be Safe
It's not uncommon for some people to have an irrational fear that they're going to attend a jiu jitsu class and end up leaving with a broken arm, dislocated shoulder, or knocked out teeth.
Well, that's exactly what it is-- an irrational fear!
In a professional jiu jitsu academy, instructors are there to make sure that the chance of injury for everyone involved is as small as possible. Common practices include:
Making sure everyone properly warms up their muscles and stretches
Pairs people of similar skill levels
Intervenes when someone is being too aggressive or making unsafe movements
Reinforces proper technique and prevents poor habits from recurring
As long as you listen to the people in charge, you'll be no worse for wear than when you first walked in the door.
We train as a team and everyone has a role to play, from the beginners up to the instructors. Everyone is important.
Nobody Is Judging You
Everyone starts somewhere, and experienced fighters all remember their first day of training.
Even still, thoughts like "I don't belong here" or "what if I'm bothering others because I have no skills" may creep into your mind. The fear of failure is real.
But,t here's nothing to be ashamed of. Every newcomer is going to lack the coordination, knowledge, and discipline that separates the pros from everyone else.
Academies aren't like gyms. At a gym, people train on their own or in their own groups and are more or less unconcerned with those around them.
At an academy, everyone is there to grow together regardless of skill level, meaning that you'll become a necessary part of the group. Besides, the best way to improve is to compete with others better than you!
Don't Compare yourself to Anyone Else
Not making progress as quickly as you'd like? It doesn't matter. Find yourself tapping out often against people your age and skill level? It still doesn't matter.
Of course, it's nice to win every now and again, but winning shouldn't be your only goal on the mats.
Unless you're planning on competing in a world tournament one day (and very, very few of us are), the end goal of jiu jitsu is to build confidence, discipline, and enjoy yourself.
Starting Jiu Jitsu Can Seem Difficult
But it doesn't have to be.
With the above information about starting jiu jitsu in mind, you'll be well on your way to overcoming your fears and changing your body and mind for the better.
Want to learn more about how jiu jitsu can benefit you? Feel free to get in touch with us today!