Why You Should Encourage Your Kid To Start Practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

There are many reasons why you should encourage your kid to start practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. From weight loss, discipline, and anger management, there are multiple advantages to this sport. It not only is a grueling workout for the mind but for the body as well. To make it through one tough class or competition can make anyone stronger in every aspect of their life. Not only does this sport keep kids in shape but it teaches them how to work with others, defend themselves in real-life situations, and how to set goals and accomplish them. The lessons taught in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu transcend into everyday life. Seeing children learn these lessons at such a young age makes them more prepared for the obstacles they will inevitably face as they grow older.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Can Be Practiced By Virtually Anyone

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a martial art that utilizes grappling and ground fighting techniques. A bit of history shared by folks at Find Your Gi is that BJJ is a relatively new form of martial arts that was developed in Brazil during the early 20th century. The name “jiu jitsu” is actually a Japanese term that means “gentle art”. This is in reference to the fact that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu focuses on using leverage and technique rather than strength and size to overcome an opponent.

BJJ has become increasingly popular in recent years because it is one of the few martial arts that can be practiced by people of all ages and body types. Unlike other sports, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioners compete with opponents who are close to their age and size so no one has an advantage over others. This can make it very appealing for kids who may feel discouraged by other sports where the competition is unfair.

BJJ Teaches Children Self-Defense

One of the many benefits of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is that it teaches kids how to defend themselves in real-life situations. The techniques learned in class can be used against bigger and stronger opponents, making your child less likely to become a victim of violence. In an age where bullying is such a common occurrence, it’s important for kids to have some sort of self-defense skills. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu provides that and so much more.

BJJ Teaches Children Responsibility

The discipline and focus that is required to practice Brazilian Jiu Jitsu on a regular basis carry over into every other aspect of a child’s life. When they learn how to set goals and achieve them through hard work and dedication, they become more focused and determined to accomplish anything. In the same way, the camaraderie found in a Jiu Jitsu gym can teach your child how to work with others instead of against them. At an early age, children will learn to take care of their equipment, manage the time for practice, study, play, and other things. 

BJJ is An Excellent Form of Exercise

Another great reason you should encourage your kid to start practicing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is that it’s one of the few sports where weight-loss comes as a benefit. When kids learn different techniques and movements, their bodies begin to change for the better. The challenges that come with these physical changes will only encourage them to keep going. The end result will be a better-looking, feeling body that they can be proud of.

The grueling workout involved in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can help kids lose as much as 10 pounds after each practice. It is often referred to as strength conditioning rather than just a workout because it gets the heart pumping, unlike any other exercise routine. The simple and complex movements involved in BJJ also help improve flexibility in children, which allows more freedom of movement and agility.

BJJ Teaches Children Self-Discipline and Respect

One of the most important goals we can instill in our kids is self-discipline and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the best ways to help accomplish that goal. Learning how to control their movements, breath under stress, and keep an eye on their form all come as benefits from this sport. Practicing Jiu Jitsu also helps teach kids how to meditate through breathing techniques which allows them to relax even when they’re facing challenges or obstacles at school or home.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu encourages respectful behavior both on and off the mats. The lessons learned at BJJ class are so much more than physical. They are mental, emotional, and spiritual as well which makes them all the more important. The intense workout leads to strength in both body and mind which enables students to push themselves harder than they thought imaginable.

 

If you are looking for a physical and mental challenge for your child, or if you want to give them some important life skills that they can use long after they stop practicing BJJ, then we encourage you to enroll them in a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class today. You won’t regret it!