Right: Abdullah Masood
“I would argue that the main reason to train BJJ is to build character. It is to build those skills of everyday life”
When asked “Why train BJJ”, many are quick to offer the numerous benefits such as building strength, flexibility, endurance, getting healthy, and to top it off, learning to defend oneself against an attacker if need be. While all these benefits are valid, I would argue that the main reason to train BJJ is to build character. It is to build those skills of everyday life that prepare us to face stress, stay calm in difficult situations, and to be humble. I train BJJ because my role as a future physician requires me to stay strong in difficult situations, be a life-long learner, and of course have a healthy work-life balance.
The everyday demands of a Medical student can be very stressful and time consuming. From mastering clinical competency to being a complete medical expert, I am required to spend countless hours at the clinic or studying. At its core, BJJ not only serves as a place for me to leave everything behind for a moment, but also reminds me to step back and take a deep breath. It reminds me to breathe whenever I am in a stressful situation, whether that is at the hospital or on the mats within the tight grips of a guillotine choke. Further, it lays the foundation for the development of qualities that make a good leader/physician. To name a few, BJJ builds the discipline and resilience required for Medical school.
I also train BJJ because I value my health, want to build strength, flexibility, and endurance, and of course, submit my opponents through superior skill and will. That being said, the holy grail of training BJJ for me is that it builds character, lifelong skills/qualities, and allows me to put the difficulties of medical school on the back burner while I train. Of course, every time I complete training, I am more than prepared to face the ups and downs of life.
That is why I train BJJ.