I want to Compete in BJJ But I’m Overweight and Ashamed

Does your physical appearance bother you at all when you're doing Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, either in the gym or in competition?
Our friend, who wished to remain nameless, is having this issue. He isn't comfortable with his physical appearance right now and it's getting in his way with competing.
He says that he's lost over 50lbs since starting BJJ. But he still isn't comfortable. And he's wanting to compete in bigger BJJ tournaments. But the big tournaments don't allow people to wear rash guards or t shirts under their gi.
In this video I share experiences from my childhood when I was a fat chubby kid who had man boobs. And I had little to no confidence. My insecurity was so bad at one point that I developed a stutter.
I was in the same boat as Bob in regards to being overweight abd ashamed of my physical appearance.
Then I started wrestling, eating better food and lifting more effectively. By the time I got into BJJ. I was a successful wrestler and even had abdominal muscles showing. But. . . I still felt awkward with my shirt off in front of people.
So in the video I try to share how I overcame my awkward, insecure feelings with my clothing off and hopefully it will help Bob on his desire to compete at bigger BJJ competitions and BJJ tournaments.
Thanks!
-Chewy
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[@papabear328]

many of you will never know how much this video means to some of us. a genuine thank you Chewy.

[@LucasKingPiano]

Hope he goes and wins gold and overcomes this all in the same day. I'm rooting for him.

[@bpjvideo]

Didn't expect to see you here haha. Love your music!

[@faisal1814]

you are seriously one of my favorite youtubers

[@Chewjitsu]

Glad to hear it! Thanks. :)

[@Lazerbeam323ci]

Chewjitsu your students are lucky to have you as a coach. And thank you for being an awesome contributor on KZbin

[@Chewjitsu]

And I'm lucky to have them. They're super cool students!

[@TWRX_Chuck]

I legit used to hate playing shirts vs. skins as a kid. Coaches always made it a thing and I desperately pleaded to be put on the shirts team. Still scarred from that experience.

[@TheDrewManGroup]

I feel you on that brother

[@joshc007]

I know the feels.... Soccer ruined that for me

[@prometheusprometheus3747]

I’m feeling it at this moment. Lucky though, my coach realized my issue always crossing my arms. From them he made me shirts.

[@JChamps211]

My high school gym teach was sus, he always had the chubby kids skins, I think he has a fetish 😂

[@ethanspencer1691]

'Some serious hooters' Chewie 2017

[@Chewjitsu]

Haha.

[@joeschmoe9154]

It's really crazy that someone who has the guts to train BJJ AND compete has to go through this type of inner struggle because of his body type. Thanks for sharing your story Chewy, it was amazing.

[@nathanr5629]

When I started BJJ, I weighed 270 pounds. I was 6 feet tall at 16, so I was pretty big. I was very embarrassed when my shirt would come up for anything, so no one saw me without a shirt for months. I started training BJJ, and fell in love. I started doing the workouts with some of the other teenagers who were in great shape, and was insanely sore. But I kept at it. And now, at 245 pounds while training for 10 months, I changed shirts in the middle of the living room with family around for the first time in over a year. It was awesome. My goal for 2019, get down to 225 pounds. I've started working out on my own, and now I have very noticeable triceps and deltoids. But, I'm just warming up. With all the support that I have been getting from my coach and teammates, it really pushes me to train harder. And guess what? I'm testing for my second white belt stripe tomorrow! I'm so scared.

[@the_real_ch3]

"I used to run laps for fun" Dude what is wrong with you

[@timblizzard4226]

Chewy you are a legitimately rad dude man, I dont think guys talk about body issues enough. I'm 6'1 and 105kgs (230lbs), pretty muscular but a bit chubby (I surf 3 to 5 times a week so im in decent shape). I get shit from family members, especially growing up, about being fat, especially when I used to be 30 pounds heavier. I don't think they know how much it can fuck with you. I NEVER show my body to other people, even though I know its not that bad. Worse thing is, some of those family members are not exactly skinny. Hearing this means a lot coming from someone most of us want to be - your a bad motherfucker, Black belt and MMA fighter, with an awesome body, and even you have issues with body image. Thanks for the honesty, its appreciated.

[@huh4963]

As someone who is overweight (woman) in jiu jitsu, it is very overwhelming at first but once you do it more; it’s amazing. Don’t let your weight hold you back, instead, you it to your advantage 😊

[@ToolFan68]

I have watched and downloaded at least 100 of your videos and this one was one of the most important and beautiful of them all. This one was about empathy and vision along with acceptance. Thank you for this amazing video and for all you do man.

[@Chewjitsu]

I appreciate your kind comments as well, and I'm glad the videos have been useful or at least entertaining to you in some way. Thanks again for your kind words.

[@michaelm8138]

I hope you feel beautiful because all women are.

[@errcoche]

One of the things I have enjoyed about jiu-jitsu is the non judgement and acceptance of whoever shows up at the dojo. I wouldn't stay at a place where it wasn't that way. It doesn't matter and we all know that whatever shape you are in, if you keep coming it's going to improve. It feels good to work with guys and help them get into shape. As for competition, looking a little soft is likely to make opponents underestimate you.

[@coleharless2018]

Have experienced the same situation except being "skinny" but I started taking jiu jitsu and mma and feel more confident every single day. Love the vids chewy your students are lucky to have you!

[@MichaelShulski]

I started bjj 3 years ago and I'm a blue belt now. I lost a ton of weight, but gained much of it back as a result of some time off and quitting smoking. For me, the big thing is just showing up. I'll get back down in time. I have faith, and it's based on experience now.

[@HotrunVideo]

Just wanted to say thanks for posting this video buddy. I started mma training exactly a year ago now and it took real balls to step in there with all those healthy people when I was in real bad shape myself. They've all been great about it - those people respect the effort we put in, our attitude to training, and they've all seen the transformation I've gone through over the past 12 months. It's truly the best thing I ever did, and even when I could barely walk down the stairs in the morning full of bruises, I don't regret a second of it. If you're still thinking about it, don't. Just do it. Step through the door. Someday you'll wonder why u waited for so long. Thanks again buddy, you're an inspirational dude.

[@Ivanofkoshinkaisokanryu]

am a big guy I use to way 400 but now am at 300 I wanted to be good at martial arts so yeah that's what made me lose weight training is more important then how you look

[@kestermyronsoldmcmanager1273]

the new phat dragon how’s your progress?

[@juulfiend2103]

Chuck Jones he stopped

[@jtpowerlifting8452]

Happy to see this video. I’m currently 331lbs and started BJJ three weeks ago. It’s definitely a workout but I enjoy it. So far I suck at rolling but happy that I’m getting side control, mount, and 1 time so far an Americana. Little by little I’m getting there.

[@matthewspencer1077]

You're the man chew, keep it up. You have no idea who you're helping.

[@michaelm8138]

I hope you feel beautiful because all women are.

[@jamesmcgrath849]

Chewy, man, you just made my day. Thanks for the inspiring and informative videos. I was sharing Bob's feelings at the beginning and feel much better remembering that I'm a different, better and more healthy person. Thanks so much for every small detail I've picked up, they've all helped me improve myself or my game. -Jay

[@richardlancelot3829]

This is so relatable to me. I'm not in bad shape or even slightly fat, but rather pretty skinny... But I have the exact same fear, of people judging me, looking at me funny or thinking about my appearance. It's all mental, I want to have a better body than I do, but for the longest time I've been super-insecure about it. Especially my small arms, to the point where I almost NEVER ever wear a T-shirt or go to the beach/pool or anywhere where people can see and judge my body. Whenever I'm in the changing room, I change super-fast. This had probably helped make me a more insecure person as a whole, and I hate that.

[@tye3ow]

I love your videos, you're always so confident in talking about the things that make you uncomfortable. this is one of those areas where jits principles apply to life: make yourself uncomfortable to get comfortable. like learning a new position, or new escape, or simply unlearning old bad habits.

[@nolanorvold4442]

I personally train in judo just started recently was a choice between bjj and judo went with judo because I love the throws and quick pace but there is not a lot of content on judo vs bjj on KZbin. That being said I love your channel I love your outlook and just love listening to you talk. I've always had weight and confidence issues self doubts and I can honestly say you make me personally feel at ease and just happy to be in the dojo. People don't judge on the mat it's a community i am glad there are people out there like you Chewie willing to share their stories to the world.

[@rastakind3]

Chewie, just had my first training in bjj after YEARS away from wrestling (wrestled from the time I was 8 years old until high school and also did freestyle and Greco Roman), have ALWAYS been a heavyweight (still am), am 42, 320 lbs., and can't BELIEVE I waited so long to get back on the mats (because of my insecurities). Thank you coach for giving me the courage to get back out there and learn an art I've been wanting to for a long time (but was afraid too because of my weight and serious man boobs...). Your KZbin channel is amazing....thanks again, sir...!

[@austink4596]

i've been bodybuilding for about 5 years now, and from personal experience, as a fit person if I see an overweight person working out in the gym I have more respect for that person than for another already fit person. There's no shame in being overweight and trying to better yourself, in fact it's the opposite. Most people who are in great shape know what it takes to get there and respect anyone walking down that road. The only people who would criticize you for your weight are assholes who's opinions shouldn't even matter to well adjusted adults. Keep getting it man, fitness is a journey and we all start somewhere.

[@UnAppropriately]

Wow, thank, I really need this. I went from weighing 400 lbs in January 2018 to 305 lbs present day 2019. I started doing Krav Maga two months ago and have now been doing Jiu-Jitsu for 3 weeks now. Though I don't have a problem with my self image in classes, I do have that fat brain mind set out in the world. And hearing this made me realize that and I am going to do something out of my comfort zone this week.

[@justinl6057]

Amen! That was a great video. I have had the same concerns myself. You get over it once you realize no one else cares.

[@derekcraig525]

I am now a subscriber after this one chewy.

[@midlifebeast9541]

Jesus that story about getting shamed as a teenager. That... hits home.

[@stevenm9223]

Thanks for posting this. It means a lot more than you think to us ‘before picture’ people

[@gregjennings9442]

I’m a slim framed guy, but during child raising years, I’d gained quite a bit of weight. When the kids graduated, I started BJJ. I looked like a snake that had swallowed a beach ball. And I didn’t have the strength or endurance that I’d always taken for granted. So, I got on My Fitness Pal. I ate better. I hit the elliptical at the Y in addition to BJJ. Yadda. But, my point here is that I *kept* at it. For many months. Brother, it takes time! As long as you are on a good trajectory, you are doing great and have *every* right to feel great about yourself. Go compete and have fun.

[@diarmuidring5546]

Dude, you're by far the best JJ KZbinr. As a big guy that's on the same journey & has gone through similar stuff growing up, thank you !

[@mizzdannful]

This is such an eye opening video. Not just for jiu-jitsu but life in general. Keep doing what you are doing kind sir. Oss !

[@eggr1ce374]

Chewy you’re the best! I swear all of these videos are made just for me. Thanks for all the awesome advice.

[@edwinrodriguez534]

Man I can't believe you went through the same issues that I am currently working on! Thank you for being inspiring to us larger or insecure folks

[@dancedancedance2458]

i am so grateful to hear about who you use to be, compared to who you are now. I feel martial art gyms force us to be more sociable, and more interactive.

[@Chewjitsu]

It can definitely help

[@wishing1513]

Wow. I've gone through similar pain. Except I was extremely unlucky and got assaulted by groups 5 times in my youth. I was a good kid and it destroyed me. I'm 35 now and still get flashbacks of the glee in their eyes as they stamped on my face. One time it was in the middle of a busy road and the cars drove around us on the pavement while I lay bloodied for about 10 min. Only once did someone stop to help. I was 13, there were 7 of them and ages 16+. I didn't have a cigarette for them.

[@Coldkill2001]

Man, thanks for this. I needed to hear this shit. I've been considering martial arts training for years, but I've never been confident with my weight

[@LeeJCander]

I went from 294lbs to 196lbs. I’m probably up to 220lbs at the moment as I’m a bit older. I was overweight for most of my life up until I was 20. The long term effects take ages to shake off as Chewie says here. But embrace it. Because by the time it takes you to get out of that shroud of anxiety you will be somebody that other people want to be, other people look up to. I started with kickboxing and now I typically train Muay Thai and my body still isn’t where I want it but, it works! I’m new into my BJJ journey and in my experience the guys are some of the most nurturing people I’ve met. Just. Keep. Going.

[@lmjr0419]

great video, brotha....this is going to help a lot of people...respect!

[@ronhali3164]

@chewy bro your "rambles" are philosophical medicine keep the rambles and continue to break chains off ppl 💪🏿💪🏿

[@bjjjudo7415]

This was a great video on so many levels. Thanks for posting it.

[@lumiii_-]

This is an awesome video! Although I'm not a heavy guy (quite the opposite, I could get blown away in a strong wind), I have anxiety issues and I have a really hard time socializing with people. BJJ is helping with that a lot! I'm only almost 2 weeks in and I've already started making a lot of friends and I've noticed that the awkwardness and fear I feel when talking to people face to face is decreasing rapidly. For anyone with any insecurity issues whatsoever, BJJ will help you overcome it all!

[@edstrickland8148]

Man, thanks so much for this. I've been really self conscious about doing no-gi but F that and I'm gonna do it.

[@pegasusofdark3768]

As always great topic and great video. I am also not where I want to be with my physical looks but the last tournament when I was told I can't wear rash guard I just took of my gi, my rash guard in front of everyone and I put gi back on. I wasn't ashamed doing it but I wasn't comfortable either. I just wanted to do the tournament and I didn't want to have that obstacle jeopardize that. Now, I only role without rash guard or a shirt. Gi only. F*uck looks, get the hooks ;)

[@kaboomcanuck2]

Very good advice... I have a port wine stain on my right arm (right arm all the way up to chest is dark red\purple). I was very self conscious about this due to bullying and what not throughout school. In my adulthood it took a lot of effort but I said f*** it, don't care what people think, wont affect my life. Used to also wear long sleeve shirts and similar things this video is saying about chubby people. Now life is much more enjoyable to just wear what I want, and do what I want - knowing that I can't do anything about it and that it doesn't matter what others think.

[@booksforprogress5307]

If you're getting into better shape and consistently training you are doing something the vast majority of people will never do. Keep up the good work

[@edwinrodriguez534]

Man thank you for being so awesome Chewy I hope one day I can travel and do a drop in session in the future!

[@JeffreyDavisChristianAuthor]

You seem like such a chill guy. It blows my mind that anyone would even want to hurt you.

[@Issahbb]

Chewy bruh u r the bjj intl mayor. Such a force n down to earth. Thank u:)

[@nickbarrera3918]

Thank you for this. I dealt with man boobs when I was younger....shit sucks. Great video!

[@Daluris]

This was seriously so eye opening and fantastic to hear sir, you are simply inspiring, motivational, insightful and super positive which is so great! Thank you Chewy for all you contribute to this sport and to the world via your channel. Much respect and continued success.

[@nonvalidOT]

Excellent advice chewy, and keep working bob, you are gonna make it bro.

[@MrMikehill30]

I know this is late but thanks for this. I've always had body image issues, even when I'm in good shape. I've recently gone through a lot of stuff and put on about 60 lbs, and I'm ashamed of people seeing me in a tight shirt or with my shirt off. And you are right, it's not just about getting in shape, but letting go of the need to feel like I look good.

[@PeartSkirtAndSpunky]

Straight up - overweight (lost a ton but still more to loose) short white belt at 5.4 227 # … No Gi is my internal battle- Super self-conscious! It can be distracting for me - but I suck it up and put on the rash guard and spats - Every day I’m in there I have anxiety over my stupid appearance- but the plan is to keep showing up till I don’t care anymore- Piece by piece it gets easier 🤷‍♀️ But I’m a baby white belt 3 weeks in… Honest first day in spats was the hardest day yet- almost walked out and drove home - almost… But when I’m rolling I don’t even think about it- Looking forward to that moment when I no longer have anxiety over my appearance… until then I’m gonna keep showing up👊 Thanks for this video 🙌

[@PeartSkirtAndSpunky]

This among other things is why I decided to get into jiu jitsu -

[@ProjeKtWEREWOLF]

Thanks for this Chewy. I think I needed to hear this too.

[@oldcrow6752]

Same way. I don't even wear a rash guard because it hugs too tight and makes it more noticable. I've been t shirting it since day one. Good advice man

[@treroney4720]

I've always been really skinny and lean. Always been terrible at asserting myself. And I was super insecure. Martial arts and acting deeply improved my confidence and self view. Now I'm skinny and I love it!!

[@KennethBrownComics]

I swear every video I watch from this guy solid dude.... Keep up the good work keep rolling bro

[@JBrooksNYS]

I had man boobs from the time I was 13. Taking my shirt off in front of people was the worst thing that could possibly happen to me. I lost a ton of weight and they were still there. It was glandular tissue, not fat. It was on my mind every second of the day. So when I was 25, I got surgery and had them removed. BEST $8000 I EVER SPENT... but there still get a hint of that feeling taking my shirt off around people.

[@james1311na]

Surgery? That's sad. Painful.

[@damien3959]

@@james1311na it's surgery to remove something tissue in your chest that can't be lost any other way. U have a anime pfp don't talk weirdo.

[@kurtmschmitz]

This was so real. Hell yeah. This is why bjj is the best. No one cares your weight, your belt, nothing. Everyone is accepted.

[@kjuarez29]

I still have this problem but on another part of my body. Thanks for posting this Chewie.

[@raymanmemory]

Man, what a great video. Great advice and philosophy. You got my subscription!

[@Th3tank79]

Its extremely frustrating going through body transformation. I am just getting back into training and getting back into shape after a long hiatus. When I was training and competing/fighting was a heavyweight (always been a bigger guy). But going from working 10hrs a day then training at night to a desk job and no longer training i blew up fast, and its such a long journey getting it back off, I had to order a whole new gi because my old one no longer fit to well. It is a bit embarrassing showing up fat and out of shape and getting overwhelmed by younger lower belts because you wind out or dont move as fast as you once did. But hopefully this individual stuck with it, went to tournaments and got past their thoughts of self doubt. First day back i was tired, worn out and had to ring out my shirt but I hadn't smiled like that in a long time, felt like coming back home after a long time away.

[@parms4707]

Fucking hell man.. everything you have been saying has resonated with me in some real way. The small things like turning away before taking my top off even when I got jacked through gym work. Thanks man I really thought I was the only one who had this insecurity still in me even after losing weight.

[@justsomeguy8138]

Your awesome, not a lot people can open up to their problems but I’m dealing with same problem but this video helped me thank you so much

[@falchionwielder785]

Thanks for sharing this. I’m sure it was hard to share this and even harder to go through it.

[@Slamminbassplayer]

Thanks for sharing your own experience. You are a good guy.

[@BlackNoobie420]

Thanks this video truly helped me not care what people think of me.

[@treefitty6612]

I’ve been going through this since I stopped soccer in my freshman year, I graduated in 21 and am 19 I went from 260 down to 225 and hit a plateau and the bad thoughts came in, I still have those thoughts constantly and it’s hard, I’m addicted to food and I’m trying my best. thank you for all the advice my goal is 190 after 7 months slowly but surely. Wish me luck and again thank you

[@Muz710]

This is the best KZbin video I’ve seen all year

[@androthsatyr]

I have the same issue. Even though I started dropping weight a lot I'm still pretty fat (about 27-28% bfat @ 220-230 pounds) and even in training I wear rashguard under my gi, I just feel very awkward without it... Thanks for the video Chewy, great mindset and things to consider.

[@arifreyr2677]

Thank you so much for this Chewie.

[@ethangraves2890]

Bob, the heck with the nay sayers. They will always be out there talking their trash to feel better about themselves. Congrats on the weight loss. I look forward to hearing about your competition performance. Keep up the good work.

[@j0hncast33l]

i wish i could like this video 100 times....i've lost over 100lbs and still dealing with the mental hurdles.

[@fgregso2]

Thank you sir. I needed to hear this.

[@benclay4623]

Very awesome advice chewy.

[@isiwiw8169]

4:20 most relatable thing I’ve heard I’ve lost over 45+lbs now around 182lbs and I’ve been bullied for my appearance for a long time and cause of that I’ve been still insecure and probably will still be for a long time hopefully I will be able overcome I’m currently 16 and want to gain that confidence

[@raydavison4489]

i wish there were more coaches like you in the world.

[@jahipalmer8782]

Thanks for the video. Some of us bigger guys understand.

[@williamwill5937]

Great advice, sweet video as always

[@Chewjitsu]

Appreciate the comment.

[@COACH_ANTHONY_MMA]

Great video I felt with the same issue between 4th and 6th grade.

[@TheThomEmpire]

@Chewjitsu absolutely feel this one... As a 40+ year old and overweight, I can't bring myself to do NoGi on how I look in a rash guard. I have a massive spare tyre around my gut and moobs (Man Boobs) and zero cardio. As a zero stripe white belt, I know it's going to take time and I'm trying to get there, but it'll take time

[@thrydwulf]

Great video, Chewy!

[@justinmarkow6117]

You are such a cool and inspirational guy!

[@Chewjitsu]

Appreciate that Justin.

[@chokillah]

you are wonderful. Thank you for your authenticity :)

[@theomen49]

I can relate to this, a lot... I got really chubby when I was like 10-15 years old. When I was 18 I lost 50 pounds by basically starving myself for 6 months, but just like you said it took years for my mind to catch up with my body. So, this is not Jujitsu related, but you said when you were young you got really nervous around other people, to the point that you couldn't talk to them easily. Did you have a hard time talking to girls? This is the thing that I am struggling with still. I've become fairly fit and healthy, I have good posture, I can talk and make friends (although people, especially strangers, still make me a bit nervous and shy), I'm even fairly good looking. I've been trying for years, embarrassing myself out in public asking out girls, but I just can't seem to break this thing.

[@ronhali3164]

I'm a skinny guy, been skinny all my life, been made self conscious from all the heavy set ppl in my young life , always thought I didn't weigh enough. Went to prison at 17, scared to take my shirt off because "I'm too skinny" well guess what nobody cared. Why, because right off the bat, you'll find yourself getting told by a guard to strip down , and squat and cough, 😳 at some point you have to shower with 100 ppl and at some point you'll realize that I'm skinny, he's 300 lbs, he's chubby, he's buff, and so on and so forth, I realize that it's all in my head. I when I got out I didn't have that bird chest anymore , and nobody cared lol spent a lot of time not being skinny and nobody cared lol it didn't make me any more money than being skinny did. I got my wife and she never married me because of my "size" or "weight" it was my confidence. So bro I'm still skinny, but will take my shirt faster than someone more muscles. I've got buddies who of 300 plus pounds and will easy take their shirt like there Mr. Olympic lol. So go win your tournament, and when you do, peel that shirt off and flex on em, cause they have no idea how far you came 💪🏿💪🏿💪🏿

[@brianbouchard1899]

Can you tell me this story again, but slower and in a more sultry voice?

[@Chewjitsu]

Haha. You're avatar made me read this in the voice of Quagmire.

[@michaelcarey396]

gigity

[@bakedbeard4203]

Love this channel

[@Thomas2877]

Glad he answered this question. Im overweight myself (alot) and have trouble moving around alot. I dont even know where to begin on how to lose weight. No idea how to start a diet. Ive been a big guy all my life and made fun of and bullied. Now that im alot older i just think i got a case of the fuck its but i know i have to do something soon just have no idea where to start.

[@MaharlikaAWA]

Remember guys. Martial arts are not about being a model or looking sexy. It is about being healthy, long life, and effective in combat or competition. Now having perfect abs. Abs don't win a fight. Skills do.

[@blibluaha8156]

Brother, you are inspiring.

[@matthewbennett1972]

Man you are speaking to my soul. I have a question I have an umbilical hernia should I start BJJ I need to do something but I feel limited by this injury

[@Jo-ym6id]

Kindness. Thanks

[@flashbang45]

Very inspirational story. Thanks.

[@Chewjitsu]

You're welcome.

[@ninjaraph]

That was excellent, excellent advice.

[@nightwaves6455]

Thanks for this video chewy

[@french.pineapple.express3871]

I love my 40 yo pudge when squashing a littler player that is doing the quick spin stuff...lol...All kidding aside, it's BJJ, we don't care who rolls as long as the mindset is right....Great vid Chewy!!!

[@ryanmartin4143]

I love this guy.