Do I have to be fit to start BJJ & Wrestling?
The simple answer is no, you don’t have to be fit to start Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) & Wrestling. Just come as you are and you will see progress within weeks!
A Common Misconception
Many believe that they must “get in shape” first before starting BJJ and Wrestling classes. Unlike other martial arts like Karate and Taekwondo which heavily rely on your flexibility, agility and strength, BJJ and Wrestling are grappling-based martial arts which allow you to neutralise and control your opponent through takedowns, choke holds and joint locks, regardless of your fitness level & body size.
Are BJJ & Wrestling effective in a street fight?
BJJ is often more effective than other martial arts in a street fight. It allows a smaller practitioner to overcome a much bigger opponent through the use of techniques. On the streets, it is more likely that one will be approached by a much bigger aggressor.
With the merge of both wrestling & BJJ, a practitioner is well equipped for both stand-up and on the ground. Many people wouldn’t have a clue how to fight on the ground, thus giving you the advantage of controlling and pinning them down.
Fitness on the Mats
BJJ & Wrestling is an excellent workout that works the entire body, from your legs all the way to your neck. One session of BJJ would activate all muscle groups, and one Wrestling class would tremendously improve your cardio.
As you have fun on the mats, you simultaneously work out all body parts. Unlike weightlifting, jogging and swimming, you will get to learn practical techniques at a BJJ & Wrestling class, giving your workout an extra edge.
To start doing BJJ & Wrestling, you don’t have to be an athlete nor do you have to be super fit or super strong. BJJ is suitable for people of all sizes, body types, heights, age and gender. All you need is to walk into a gym and attend classes as often as you can and results will come, notably.
The First Month
The first month is possibly the toughest on you physically & mentally. You will be challenged in many ways from your physique to your mindset. It’s more common than you think that you will find it hard to retain the cardio you once had even as an elite athlete as BJJ & Wrestling work out a different kind of cardio & fitness. I know some Muay Thai fighters with incredible cardio capacity who had trouble adjusting their training in BJJ & Wrestling in their first month.
You might stumble upon some different situations or techniques that you can’t quite get a grasp of. That’s totally okay! Just reach out to your coaches and they will be happy to answer and clarify the questions that you have. It is always to clarify any doubts you have rather than assuming the technique as you might hurt your partner in the process.
BJJ & Wrestling aren’t easy to master. It may take 10 years to get your black belt but the learning never stops. Every BJJ black belt I’ve talked to said, “This feels like the beginning of understanding Jiu Jitsu” upon receiving their black belt.
The process is lengthy but that is part of the journey. Teach your body to cope with the pressure, intensity and challenge. You will find it incredibly rewarding the moment you find that “click”. This click is the first realisation of what each technique is for and how to utilise it to your advantage.
Don’t let your fitness hold you back from trying out both Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Wrestling. If you live around Auburn, Lidcombe and Bankstown area, come to Sydney Wrestling Academy and try it out yourself.
Try your first class for free!