Why Many Drop Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but Persist in the Journey

My quest to understand Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and why so many people start but eventually stop has led me to reflect on the journey and its inherent challenges. BJJ is not for everyone, and there are numerous reasons why individuals abandon this demanding martial art. However, for those who stay, it becomes a transformative experience. In this article, we will explore the common reasons people drop BJJ and the mental and physical strengths required to persevere.

Number One Reason: Lack of Enjoyment

What many fail to recognize is that if you enjoy BJJ, you will naturally find ways to continue training, even when it gets tough. Surprisingly, one of the primary reasons people stop training BJJ is that it is simply not enjoyable for them.

According to various studies and personal observations, BJJ has an abysmal retention rate, with around 75% of people who start ceasing their training due to this very reason. The martial art is demanding, and it requires a deep sense of enjoyment to keep pushing through the pain, discomfort, and challenges it presents.

Major Life Changes

Changes in one's personal or professional life can serve as significant derailers for BJJ practitioners. These changes, such as a new job, a move, a new relationship, or the birth of children, can significantly disrupt training schedules and dedication. Higher belts, in particular, face these challenges, as they have more invested time and energy in their training.

Sport Injuries

Another common reason for discontinuing BJJ training is sports injuries. The physical nature of BJJ, involving grappling on the ground, exposes practitioners to a range of injuries. These injuries can range from bruises and cuts to more severe ones such as sprains and fractures. Injuries can lead to prolonged periods away from the mat, often resulting in frustration and eventually, a decision to quit.

Minor Reasons

Money: Financial constraints can play a role in discontinuing BJJ training. The costs associated with training, uniforms, tournaments, and travel can be significant, and some practitioners may struggle to afford them.

Illness: Health issues can sideline practitioners, leading to a temporary or permanent halt in training. Chronic illnesses or recurring injuries can make it difficult to return to the mat. Bullying: Although less common, instances of bullying within the BJJ community can also deter practitioners from continuing their training. Time: Balancing BJJ training with work, family, and other commitments can be challenging, leading to burnout and eventually a decision to drop out. Burnout: It is not uncommon for practitioners to experience burnout, where the repetitive and rigorous nature of training becomes too much to handle over time. Peer Pressure: Social dynamics within the BJJ community can also influence a practitioner's decision to quit, especially if they feel they are not measuring up to their peers.

Understanding the Art: Comfort in Discomfort

One of the key factors that sets apart BJJ practitioners who continue from those who quit is their ability to embrace discomfort. The reality is that BJJ is often uncomfortable and painful. Many find the physical and mental challenges too much to handle. However, true BJJ practitioners understand that the journey is as important as the destination. You need to be comfortable being uncomfortable.

BJJ classes involve grappling on the ground, where your opponent can apply immense pressure on your face, solar plexus, and stomach. This pressure can be excruciating, testing your pain tolerance and ability to remain calm under pressure. Additionally, the explosive nature of BJJ cardio, often practiced in a hot room, requires endurance and resilience. If you cannot handle the discomfort, you are unlikely to succeed in BJJ.

Moreover, you are bound to get hurt. Bruises, cuts, and sometimes even injuries are part of the journey. This is a natural part of training and a badge of honor among BJJ practitioners. Learning to cope with these physical challenges is as important as mastering the techniques.

The Importance of Community

Mental strength and community support play a crucial role in persevering in BJJ. In BJJ, it is not about the belt but about the journey. The belt serves as a marker of progress, but it is not the goal. Instead, the focus should be on enjoying the art, learning to defend yourself, and having fun. It is important to remember that BJJ is a team sport, and support from fellow practitioners can make a significant difference.

BJJ also has its unique set of egos, but it is essential to be humble and understand that BJJ is about growth, not just achieving a higher rank. It is not uncommon for a white belt to be able to submit a purple belt or even a black belt. This is because BJJ recognizes that physical attributes such as size and strength can vary, and mental and technical skills are also crucial.

Ultimately, the decision to stay in BJJ or quit comes down to your personal commitment and mindset. If you are willing to be comfortable in the uncomfortable, embrace the community, and focus on the journey rather than the belt, BJJ can be a rewarding and transformative experience.

Key Takeaways:

Disenjoyment and discomfort are major reasons people stop BJJ.

Major life changes and injuries can significantly impact BJJ training.

Physical and mental resilience are essential for long-term success in BJJ.

Community support and a focus on the journey, not just the belt, are crucial.

BJJ is about growth, self-defense, and having fun, not just achieving higher ranks.