Hello everyone! Its been a little while since I created this site. The goal now is to post engaging content and spark fun, open and honest discussions about different topics in the world of Grappling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. I’m excited to share a little bit of my Bjj Journey, hopefully people that read these posts find some value, even if its entertainment value.
Getting Started in BJJ
In 2011, I officially began my journey in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). Prior to that, I had been training with friends, sharing experiences, and calling it MMA. It was a fun time with great people, leading up to the point where I found my coach and the team I would spend the next 11 years training with.
Before BJJ, I had a background in wrestling from high school and college. After my wrestling days, it was natural for me to transition into MMA training during college. The popularity of the UFC, with stars like Anderson Silva and GSP, made it an exciting time to be involved in the sport.
At that time in Michigan, it was relatively easy to participate in fights as the state did not have an athletic commission to regulate amateur MMA matches. It was a wild and thrilling period. Although I was unsure about stepping into the cage, the challenge intrigued me. After a year of training, I witnessed many talented fighters come and go, some getting seriously injured. This made me shift my focus from rushing into fighting to learning about the intricacies of the sport.
I spent my first year honing my striking skills, learning from anyone in the room who had knowledge to share. Thankfully, a good friend and mentor, who had a background in martial arts and had fought before we met, played a significant role in my development.
The Decision to Commit to BJJ
They say, “Good training isn’t free, and free training isn’t good.” This statement perfectly encapsulates why I made the decision to train BJJ officially. After winning my first fight with a quick KO, I went on to secure three more victories by TKO or submission. However, in my fifth fight for a title, I experienced a draw and suffered my first cut. This made me realize the importance of taking things more seriously.
Through my connections, I was introduced to my coach and got a positive vibe about joining my first BJJ school. Looking back, I can’t help but appreciate how far we’ve come as a team. We started in a small space, with thin mats on top of a cement floor, sharing facilities with a successful gymnastics program. Today, we have upgraded to proper mats, wall mats, logos, and equipment. It’s amazing to witness the transformation that can occur in a decade.
Reaching the Black Belt
In 2021, I achieved the rank of black belt, becoming the first person in my school to start as a white belt and progress all the way to black belt. This is an accomplishment that doesn’t seem like a big deal but I am truly proud of. As anyone who trains in any discipline can understand, it’s challenging to stay committed to something for over a decade, especially in one place. Honestly, I never thought I would receive a black belt. Initially, I believed I might reach purple belt and then life would take me in a different direction as I got older. But I pleasantly discovered that the BJJ lifestyle perfectly complemented my ever-evolving life.
The Impact of BJJ
I hope to use this platform to discuss BJJ as a whole, including trends, techniques, and the journey we all undertake with its ups and downs. I started BJJ because I didn’t want to give up wrestling, but I continued because it has helped me grow in so many ways. It has given me confidence in interacting with people, speaking publicly, and has even influenced my career outside of the gym. BJJ has led me to become a teacher, something I never thought I would be. It has made me a better person by instilling the “leave your ego at the door” mentality and enhancing my problem-solving abilities, enabling me to stay calm amidst chaos in various aspects of life.
Conclusion
Looking back on my journey, I can confidently recommend anyone to try BJJ. The impact it has had on my life is immeasurable. Whether you’re seeking personal growth, physical fitness, or a new challenge, BJJ offers it all. So, if you’re thinking about starting or have just begun your own BJJ journey, my advice is simple: Just show up! It’s amazing what can happen when you commit yourself to something truly transformative.
Thank you for taking the time to read this post, and I look forward to sharing more insights, experiences, and discussions about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the future! Please comment and let me know what you think.
Brian
