Taking fitness to the next level…yup, I’m learning Jiu-Jitsu. I decided to start on this journey because I believe that more women, especially in today’s society, should know how to defend themselves. Jiu-Jitsu is definitely very empowering and it truly builds confidence; which is the first step in self-defense. Knowing that you are not powerless and choices are available can make a world of difference in a situation where you may have to fight to live.
I love the video below. As I train in Jiu-Jitsu my eyes are being opened to an art that is much more than just a sport. It takes dedication and commitment to continue to practice the art and the benefits go far beyond self-defense. However, I find this video to be awesome because it's promoting self-awareness for women. I find that too many women and some men think of Jiu-Jitsu as a sport that is too touchy-feely. I never thought of self-defense as anything more than a tool for safety. Others may simply be intimidated...I know I was at first! Too those people, check this video out! Women back in the day, fully covered, defending themselves using Jiu-Jitsu techniques. Today, women in the UFC show the world that women are strong, in control and can be self-reliant when protecting themselves.
That is Shawn Bennett on the picture below. I’m lucky that Shawn is very enthusiastic about health & fitness. He is my trainer as well as my mentor and Jiu-Jitsu instructor now. We’ve been practicing all the basic self-defense techniques; just yesterday I was learning a straight armlock technique.
We like to record the training sessions and review the videos to discuss technique and form.
Shawn goes over goals, techniques, training schedules, and other related topics. I love that he keeps an open line of communication with us. I am currently the only woman in the team but I feel very comfortable with these guys. We all bring different energy to the studio so we all take turns rolling with eachother. They treat me with respect and often offer advice. They are very cool.
Beyond self-defense, Jiu-Jitsu to me is an art that tests the spirit, works the mind, and strengthens the body.
Funny side note - Many times after training I come home and practice on my husband. lol
Thanks for being such a great sport Pa!!! :)
TAP.