Why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Is Good For Weight Loss & Self Defense

What Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or simply BJJ, is a martial art that possibly dates as far back as Ancient Egypt. Rather than defeating your opponent through sheer strength, the point of BJJ is to subdue your opponent using a series of chokes and holds until they submit. It places high emphasis on using leverage to your advantage, even if your opponent is bigger or stronger than you.

How Difficult Is BJJ?

BJJ, like all martial arts, is extremely difficult to master. It takes years, maybe decades of dedication to truly consider oneself a master.

However, don’t let that deter you from adding BJJ to your fitness routine. Even if you’ve never stepped foot on a mat before, we all need to start somewhere.

In terms of calories burned, BJJ can be a highly effective weight-loss tool. Obviously, calorie expenditure is determined by a series of factors, such as a person’s weight, age, gender, the intensity of the workout session, etc., it is not out of the question to burn upwards of 1,000 calories in a full hour-long BJJ class that includes rolling. 

Rolling is the BJJ term for sparring. It’s the opportunity to practice the techniques you have learned against a live opponent who is actively resisting. 

Beginners are encouraged to participate, but make sure you are rolling against someone who is of a similar size and skill level to start. Once you begin to practice BJJ and master some techniques, you can graduate to tougher opposition. 

Is BJJ Good For Self Defense?

We’ve already established that a typical BJJ class is a great way to lose weight. 

While that in itself is great, the best part of learning BJJ is the actual martial art itself. Practicing BJJ will give you the tools necessary to defend yourself should an unfortunate situation arise.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is largely about control as we stated earlier. For self-defense, it is important to know how to control the other person during a physical altercation, especially if that person is larger than you. 

An advantage of BJJ over boxing is that boxing someone bigger than you puts the smaller person at a significant disadvantage. With BJJ however, you can overcome that disadvantage by using your opponent’s size against him. 

Of course, take this with a grain of salt. Taking a few BJJ classes doesn’t mean you can take down the biggest and baddest guys out there. But, continually practicing and mastering your technique will result in you becoming more capable of defending yourself. 

Where Can I Practice BJJ In Houston

O Athletik offers BJJ classes to all of our members as part of their membership. All BJJ classes are instructed by Metro Fight Club, a highly successful MMA gym that has recently partnered with O Athletik to teach our members various MMA forms. 

Our BJJ classes are offered in both No-Gi and Gi. If you’re confused on which one is right for you, contact us here or speak to a personal trainer at our facility. We’d be happy to steer you in the right direction. 

BJJ classes are offered at various times Monday-Saturday, so be sure to download the O Athletik app to see our official schedule!