Are you looking for a great way to stay in shape but get bored with traditional weightlifting? Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is the perfect way to get fit while learning self-defense techniques that can save your life. There are thousands of Brazilian Jiu-jitsu gyms across the U.S. in recent years, the sport has grown exponentially. People of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds have come to know and love the sport. Celebrities and athletes, including Kelly Slater and Ashton Kutcher, are avid practitioners. The late Paul Walker, star of The Fast and The Furious, was also one of the sport’s biggest enthusiasts.

This martial art is designed to give a smaller opponent the upper hand in self-defense against larger opponents. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu uses the larger individual’s weight and height as leverage against them. The beauty of jiu-jitsu is that the submission techniques generally keep both people from suffering serious injury. A simple choke or shoulder lock, which can be mastered by nearly anyone after a few months of training, is very effective and allows the attacker to suffer minimal injury yet leaves them subdued. Even a basic knowledge of various techniques can save your life in a dangerous situation.

Aside from the self-defense aspects of jiu-jitsu, there are many other benefits. When you join a jiu-jitsu gym, you are joining a family. You are guaranteed to make friends and have great teammates to push you to be the best you can be. The beauty of the sport is that it helps people gain confidence and build a work ethic reflected in their home lives, jobs, and academics. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is one of the truest sports, bringing diverse groups of people together and helping them collectively better one another.

Lastly, for those who love a good rush, there are nationwide tournaments. Competing is a great way to let some adrenaline loose and test your skills against jiu-jitsu practitioners worldwide. It is also a proven way to grow your game and improve faster.

Overall, if you need something to distract you from the everyday hustle and bustle, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu is a perfect way to get a great workout and learn lifesaving techniques. There are gyms in nearly every city and state, so find one near you and see if it can change your life the way it has for many others.