Jiu-Jitsu Over 40 (5 Rules to Roll Till 95)

[@johndaniels4125]

This is my first comment ever on a KZbin video. I am forty years old, I stopped training jiu-jitsu for exactly these reasons, especially #1 and #3, and before I even finished watching the video I called my professor and I am going back to training Tuesday morning. Thank you so much.

[@Bob-pk9jr]

John Daniels it’s been 3 years wassup

[@ChrisBird1]

hope he's still rolling @@Bob-pk9jr

[@Bob-pk9jr]

Chris Bird same

[@Squadfather33]

AWESOME !!

[@darrengray5045]

Tell us man! Did you keep on training?????? We need to know !

[@tonysuyetsugu3805]

I’m 71 almost 72 when I started BJJ. It’s been 5-6 months since I started. At the end of my first month I broke two ribs but continued training until August when I stared pissing blood and went for a CAT scan and found out I had two broken ribs. I stopped for a month at the recommendation of my doctor. In mid September I returned to class. I am so grateful to my coach and fellow students who treat me with respect. I tap every time I roll. At the end of class I am winded and so grateful I had a chance to roll with these young men and women. Train on and roll without an ego and I’m enjoying the twilight of my life

[@JAMMAJ-cq2bl]

❤👏👏👏💪

[@DennisDunham]

Pretty much exactly in that situation. One of the keys to me is to find a good group of BJJ students who are willing to work with you and understand your situation. Don’t try to hide your age they need to know. I’ve been treated with nothing but respect, although I will say the younger they are the more likely they are to avoid me. I think they just don’t know what to do. Before I signed up, I asked if I could observe, and I found out the personalities of the men and women there. I never had to look again.

[@SunnyBuoy1]

Legend..........'dont let the ole man in' !!!👍

[@RafaelSantana-n4c]

Nices 👍👏 am 56 i always like the marcial art i go an trie but wen younger guy make look bad i quit i be traing to do bjj but like i said the younger kid they done respet they use you like a somenthing to practive an i dont like thad somenthing the intructor always chear for the 1 the know an me the i dont know nothing how to respond 😐 somentime i whant to bite o do somenthing dirtay to get away and make then to respet . Now the differen to the Gracie jj is they no traing for Sport the traing for self defense an not to win thad is the problem to somen bjj school not respet 😔😡

[@michaelstrangis8742]

Wisdom been dropped ❤

[@Doberman144]

Am a purple belt at 60.. Been training now for 7.5 years.. Train jits 2x a week rolling for 2 hrs each session and train judo 2x a week now for 3 yrs and am brown belt .. I weight train 2x per week w/ cardio .. My point is all my buddies my age are falling apart w/ heart and health problems w/ a steady diet of prescription meds and high blood pressure .. I am completely drug free and and rolling strong .. Jiujitsu is part of my fountain of youth .. Train hard, train smart and live long .......

[@jamesram4869]

Doberman144 well... i would probably recommend running as a sport, not jiu jitsu, thats more of a mind exercise than body exercise

[@SciSciToys]

Doberman144 Wow you are an inspiration to me.

[@ludoka58leo]

I am a 61 year old bjj white belt (Judo Green belt) who trains bjj 2x per week...you sir, are an inspiration for us OG ("Old Grappler")

[@raymondlugo9960]

I'm 49, judo keeps me younger than I was in my 30s

[@tonyhew8482]

Thank you Brother. Your an inspiration

[@Jesse272m]

I always liked the Roman definition of a Master: A master is someone whose students' skills exceed their own.

[@spiritsplice]

That is irrational.

[@JoeHeine]

meaning The Master passed on knowledge and training methods so well, his students were able to build on the concepts and innovate. "Standing on the shoulders of giants" If you look at the last few decades jiujitsu evolution has occurred already, so this IS happening.

[@prybarknives]

@@spiritsplice if you teach people stuff, and none of them ever exceed you in skill... You aren't a very good teacher, right,?

[@ericnypome1195]

​@@spiritsplice NOT AT ALL..IT'S THE TRUE WAY OF A MASTER..TEACHING METHOD AND SYSTEM AND HAVE SO MUCH POWERFULL STUDENTS WHO EXCEED HIM AND DEVELOPPE MORE NEWS POSSIBILITIES. A MASTER WHO THINK HE IS THE BEST AND HAVE THE ETERNEL KNOWLRDGE IS AN EGOTRIPED GUY, EGO MANIAC.....A FRAUD !!

[@ericnypome1195]

​@@spiritsplice ​ Spirit Splice NOT AT ALL..IT'S THE TRUE WAY OF A MASTER..TEACHING METHOD AND SYSTEM AND HAVE SO MUCH POWERFULL STUDENTS WHO EXCEED HIM AND DEVELOPPE MORE NEWS POSSIBILITIES. A MASTER WHO THINK HE IS THE BEST AND HAVE THE ETERNEL KNOWLRDGE IS AN EGOTRIPED GUY, EGO MANIAC.....A FRAUD !! IN TIME HIS STUDENTS MUST EXCEED HIM

[@JiuJitus1210]

I'm a 52 year-old purple belt. I train with a lot of young guys. I am not shy about telling them if something hurts. I tap early and often to blue belts. I have no problem doing that. A few of these young guys, who started around the same time I did, have gotten their black belts. They worked hard to get them and they deserve them. The put in more time because they could. I need more time to recover. When I roll with white belts, I try to help them. Instead of feeding my ego, I try to pass on what I've been taught. I'm nice to the young guys so they'll be nice to me when they eventually pass me up in skill.

[@clayvision]

theres this guy at my gym who is the same way and hes my favorite guy to roll with as a white belt

[@dougieladd]

@Jiu Jitsu - I'm nearly 52... and I'm about to START a beginner class in BJJ - I know nothing about martial arts.. nothing at all. I sit in front of a PC all day. Any advice?? :)

[@thomase205]

@@dougieladdgreat join on trying this beautiful art!! have fun!! Drink a lot of water, eat well and rest up good after. All this will help recovery and allow you to train more. Watch out for other newer belts who are spastic. You can avoid small injury setbacks by carefully choosing your partners. . BJJ is so so much fun. Happy for you!

[@knowledgeishalfthebattle]

Get off of processed foods. Processed foods are highly acidic and the damage they do causes us to need longer time to recover especially as have have degenerated what uneducated people call TIME or AGE!. Follow someone who has completed the Western States Run. because they understand biology... time was made up by man. We degenerate chemically...

[@radulupusor]

@@dougieladd Just do it and you will not regret!!! I started at 48 and still doing it after 4 years!!!

[@lancetsugawa1]

I am 68. I started BJJ at age 63 and currently have a three stripe blue belt. I plan to compete at the Masters worlds this August for the first time. I am so glad to see your video since I have been living the five rules these last five years. I plan to role the rest of my life or until I get disabled. Bravo to you guys.

[@kevinrichards53]

Wow, that is inspirational!! I am 43, train 5x a week and my body just hurts all the time. This is my second go around. I started about 10 years ago, did three years, then lost my way. My body does not move like it did 10 years ago. I really have a HUGE amount of respect for you doing BJJ at 68. I look forward to hearing about how masters go's.

[@kevinrichards53]

Well, if you are doing it right, no. What you will tend to find is that you will be dominated by the bigger guys (or gals) in your school. As time goes on, the ones that are smaller will develop better technique. The larger folks who rely on strength will hit a wall at some point. They tend to stagnate for quite a while, and have smaller guys pass them by. To me, THE most important thing to concentrate on is technique. I am not really interested in going to war with the big guys in class. To that point, you will learn more, and learn better if you chose training partners that do not smash you, but give you good pressure, and allow you to pull off a move, get into a position you are trying for. If you do some digging into the Gracie family you will see that this art was developed to be based on technical ability and not size. This is all just my opinion though. If you are worried about size, don't be. Worry about personal development. Good luck!

[@kevinrichards53]

Well,as I am not at there level I cannot answer that as they have. Does it play a roll, sure it does. How much of a roll does it play depends on the individual. A guy that is 250 lbs and all muscle is WAY different then a guy who is 250 LBS and just fat. Where is the trust of your question coming from, if I may ask.

[@kevinrichards53]

Size and strength CAN play a significant roll in grappling. Take two guys same age, same ability. One is 180lbs, the other 220lbs. The guy with more weight is going to have an advantage over the smaller guy. No doubt. Ability starts to even out the advantage the larger guy has. Ability CAN give you the chance to win over a less skilled opponent who is larger. You can see this in the original UFC #1-#3. That was pure MA going toe to toe. You had a small Gracie going against much larger stronger opponents. As a side note, the Gracie's put a smaller family member in to SHOW that there art could be used to defeat a much larger opponent. It should also be noted that the Gracie fights did not end with teeth being knocked out, and tons of blood.

[@kevinrichards53]

All things being equal, most likely yes. But I am going to hazard that you knew the answer to that....

[@kodkid]

I am 48 years old and my next training will be my 5th one. I started VERY late. I wanted to get into shape and think JJ is a beautiful skill. Day one SUCKED, almost prayed for death but I made it and love it. Ego will never be an issue with me, I get beat constantly and my goals are to lessen the number of taps and be more of a problem before I can start be offensive. Love these videos, want to roll with these guys one day, would be an honor.

[@ajperkins288]

I started last year at age 59 and I never felt better. It is the best workout in my life. I feel like I'm 35 years old and I will never quit.

[@philipeisner6137]

Solidarity.

[@ajperkins288]

@@philipeisner6137 💪

[@blueeyedbull67]

Wow. Thanks for sharing. I am about to to a trial class later this week and am 56 years old. I have been debating with myself whether I should go or not as I am very concerned about injury. Your post is motivating me to give it a shot.

[@ajperkins288]

@@philipeisner6137 💪 thanks bro

[@ajperkins288]

@@blueeyedbull67 yeah give it a try. I'm having fun and don't think you are showing your weakness when you tap out. Who cares? I don't roll every round. I roll once and relax two to pace myself.

[@switch231]

I didn't start training until I was 41 and my son started training with me at 13. So now it is two years later and I am a two stripe blue belt, my son is a 2 stripe green belt. We have become very close since starting this journey and yes, he has been tapping me now every now and then. I am quite proud of him when he taps me. My take on it is if he can tap me then I know he can defend himself if someone attacks him in real life. For me, doing Jiu Jitsu kills many birds with just one stone. I get a good cardio and strength workout, I get to learn to defend myself, and I get to spend time with my son and hang out with my friends. That is what is important to me in the end.

[@ayrsine]

I really like your comment. How is your journey now?

[@MichelMayerle]

Johnny Begood same here. I am 39 years old and my daughter is 7 years old. We both started with Judo 6 months ago. We will have our yellow belt test in a couple of weeks. I am enjoying the time we spend together. It is wonderful. And after being lazy for the last 7 years I am so happy Judo has already transformed me into a much sharper, healthier person.

[@juntjoonunya9216]

Awesome

[@KarthikSoun]

So glad to hear this brother, I am 40 and i was so scared listening to these guys speak. My son is just 2yrs old and i hope i can have a similar journey.

[@QUABLEDISTOCFICKLEPO]

I'm seventy-eight, and I very much doubt that I will ever take Jiu Jitsu lessons, but I now think I will at least visit one of the Gracie schools to get a better idea of what it's all about. However, Jiu Jitsu lessons or not, your videos are very inspirational in many ways, and they contain important life lessons for everyone. I'm now going to make a project of viewing all of your videos.

[@luisguarina1613]

+QUABLEDISTOCFICKLEPO Go do it my brother. you'll never know ;)

[@rollingkneebar3534]

+QUABLEDISTOCFICKLEPO Much respect brother :) I'm 19 and I hope to be rolling until the day I pass. It's never too late to tie that white belt around your waist and get to rolling...

[@olragluvenxo392]

+QUABLEDISTOCFICKLEPO You should try it....osss

[@RJ-im1hn]

+QUABLEDISTOCFICKLEPO I would go to a school and learn. It's such a great art, it's fun, and you feel good afterwards. Most places will give you a week free. Learn the moves, learn the ideas beyond the moves, and just have some fun, you will not regret it. Go at your own speed :)

[@bryanr.3241]

Ryan , Thanks for encouraging this older gentleman to join , because you have inspired me at 56 with back problems , to join and have some fun at learning a quality self defense technique. I'm going to check out a Gracie Academy in Jenkintown, Pa.

[@AErikReynolds]

☺️ 🙏 55 and still rolling even after lung cancer, rotator cuff and ACL surgery. Thank you for all your knowledge is power.

[@yikemikehappa2463]

Congratulations. You go!

[@Honeydove]

Thank you for this. I am 43, female, and just beginning the journey. I really needed this.

[@WayneDavisqotm]

+Mrs Rodriguez Same, 41 years old

[@WayneDavisqotm]

+Joe Yo It'll happen to you one day. lol. Love it mate jiu jitsu until I'm 90.

[@ms.nhardin4744]

Mrs Rodriguez If you're a woman in this sport, multiply the Boyd belts by 2 'cause some of the new men are twice your size and half your age. Even if you're a young woman, you're at a disadvantage, but... Take heart, women are (and have to be) twice as technical than their male counterparts. We skilled women thoroughly understand leverage, timing and position, so when we catch you...you're caught. A bjj lady is a tough lady indeed. It is simultaneously a humbling and empowering experience.

[@timsohn7057]

Queen Evilene i can totally attest to this. I am a total beginner and when I roll with fellow beginners who have 80 lbs on me, i dont get nearly as quickly submitted by a 1-2 yr white or blue belt women. I get submitted so quickly and they bombard me with different techniques which explodes my beginner brain. I am a very small guy (5’7” 138 lbs) so I definitely have this mind set ad well. I am also 36, which is not old but I am no 19 year old. I definitely have to be more technical than most.

[@rickyjones9638]

45 and still kicking..I box but I'mma learn jui jitsu as well.. kicking ass till95

[@Oprtnst]

I'm surprised they both didn't start levitating after dropping such knowledge! Love these guys!

[@dimapetrov2367]

man this is a good one.

[@DUARTE99]

I am someone who just turned 40 but quit BJJ at 33 after a second ACL injury shortly after receiving my Purple Belt. To be honest, I haven’t felt like myself ever since without Jiu-Jitsu in my life but I was/am afraid of having another ACL injury if I kept training. And that brings me shame. So I can’t even express into words properly how therapeutic and important this video is to me. I seriously was in desperate need to watch this and hear all this. Thank you so much for creating this. I think it’s finally time to dust off my Gi. 40 years old and all. Thank you Rener and Ryron!

[@FaultAndDakranon]

Don't forget to do bulletproofing exercises for your shoulders.

[@jimmyhansen245]

Did you do it?

[@gbvoul]

Boyd drove 2 hrs to classes. In LA that means he drove about 10 miles during rush hour.

[@bboy1481]

gbvoul LMFAO you're absolutely right!

[@rolandcouillard4160]

I started Jiu Jitsu at the age of 68 with no prior martial arts experience. After 2 shoulder surgeries and dual knee replacements I am now a three stripe white belt at the age of 73. With me it is not about the belts although I hope to have my blue belt by the middle of next year. If not, oh well, I'll remain the world's oldest white belt but I will continue. I love it and view it as a journey. Thank you for your inspiration. Both of you are wise far beyond your years.

[@billaiken9959]

A little late but thank you for this. I am 65 and considering starting. You have just removed any excuse I have! Respect!

[@rolandcouillard4160]

Good for you. I am now 78 and a blue belt edging toward purple soon. Took me 10 years to get there but it is not about the rank. It helps keep me fit and gives me a feeling of accomplishment. Probably won't live long enough to get a black belt but it is something to strive for. I bet you will get addicted to it. @@billaiken9959

[@Rosicrucian32]

I am 54 and attended my second BJJ class last night. I am still high. I can't do a lot at all. I have been exercising regularly my whole life. I did MA (but standing styles not floor work) but have been out for many years only maintaining my flexibility. I have had ACL replacement and I need to loose some weight.I love every second of getting arse beat in class. These are marvelous people in the class and are patient and helpful to the "old man". I can't wait to learn every time I'm there and I am happy to make to and through the class as well. This is a great sport and I am blessed to have found it before I became too old.

[@hard2hurt]

This was an important lesson for me. This video actually got me to go back to bjj. I'm not quite 40, but I have a lot of miles on this body. Being careful about who I roll with and how I roll... as well as reframing what constitutes "success" in a roll. If I can roll for 5 minutes with a higher belt or much larger guy and they can't tap me... guess what? I win.

[@RichCoppensRCKenpo]

This is one of the best video's, not only for BJJ people but all martial artist. My first instructor said to me once " In order for a Martial Art to evolve and get better The teacher must want his students to become better than him so each generation becomes better." That's the only way the Art will move forward and progress. Thank you for this video guys great information for the young and old.

[@howsyamama]

Thank you, guys. At 58, I recently returned to martial arts - after about 20 years. It is a HUMBLING experience. But now, I consider just showing up for class to be an accomplishment - and making it till the end, a personal victory. I insanely chose a system (Kung Fu - that I've loved since I was a kid) that involves lots of acrobatics and flying moves. But on the positive side, I have a sifu and classmates (all younger) who support and encourage me, every class. This video was a HUGE help and source of inspiration.

[@fatgirlboy9341]

+howsyamama I am 40. I enjoy the feeling of able to keep up with the Teenagers.

[@Rosicrucian32]

+howsyamama Thank you for your message. It is truly wonderful to find this sport myself at 54. 2 classes down, and I just can't wait to go again. I can barely walk let alone roll, but it doesn't matter, I am there!

[@MrGeerp]

+howsyamama Ive started 4 months ago jiu jitsu after 18 years, I quit with jiu jitsu because of the factory job that I found was in shifts... Now i'm 41 and I don't care that i'm still the one with the lowest stamina ( I feel progress)...when i look back 5 months ago i couldn't almost get out of the sofa with my lazy ass and was more depressed and I smoke and drink allot of beers (

[@fatgirlboy9341]

I am 40. I being training for over a year. I just came back from two competitions fighting 30 years old. Not to mention, I consistently submit 20ish people in my gym. I got six packs now from cutting weight. Awesome.

[@mhia4]

I'm 46 and just started BJJ. I have kept relatively fit running and lifting through the years and have a background in Kung fu. It was extremely humbling for the first few weeks but I'm beginning to see progress and it's totally worth every sore muscle. stick with it man

[@matthewl3453]

I'm 42 yrs old - 270#. I enrolled 14yr old son in BJJ not knowing anything about it - just wanted kids to stop bullying him. Eventually I thought - why not give it a try? So I trained for 6wks and tore my ACL during class. I had surgery - full recovery took 15mths! I received medical clearance and got back on the mat! I wanted to show my son how important it was to face your fears. I've been back on the mat for 3mths. I've lost 20# (was 290) and I feel great! My family and friends (other than my son!) all think I'm nuts. This video was so helpful for me even as a novice white belt. I'm doing well on the mat right now but I know my day will come where I will have to "pass the guard". It's been awesome to watch my son grow into the sport as well. He took a year off to wrestle but came back to support me when I returned to the mat. He's not bullied anymore and I love having him by my side. I want to grow old with BJJ but share many of the fears you mention, falling behind, competing priorities, getting beaten by younger, stronger students. Your 5 key points were spot on for me. This is your BEST video yet! Thanks!

[@5RRRtarRiver]

much respect. for the personal stuff and the parenting

[@c8ake]

damn how did you tear your ACL? ive been thinking of jumping into BJJ...but I cant afford to be off my feet due to a major injury.

[@martintrammell3572]

jilla82 The funny thing about ACL's, they seem to go when they want to go. BJJ or otherwise. I slipped in leather shoes on the street and tore an ACL. I've done BJJ for 10 years and have never had a major injury. Tons of minor ones, but no major ones.

[@SciSciToys]

Pete L Welldone Pete!!

[@SciSciToys]

I want to do the same, Im 49 now and just had a son and like to teach him, but doing BJJ one guy said my joints wont be able to take it at this age, is it true? I suppose it depends, some lady I saw on TV was 52 and looked old and mashed, looked like 90's and yet some men or women at 60 looks healthy aand fit, some 30 year old look old nd past it, lol.

[@BluntTruth7]

I've been studying for around 30+ years in various martial arts and am now 55 years old and have a few debilitating injuries now, not just from training in MA but also from being in the Army for 30+ years. With this said, after I retired from the Army I had my whole right shoulder replaced and a year later fell into this funk of not wanting to train anymore because it seemed every time I trained hard something went awry with my body. For two young men your analogy is spot on. It's been hard to think that with all my training I can't perform at the level I use to so why train anymore. I saw this not only in my MA training but as a Soldier/Warrior. As I got older in my late 30's early 40's it became very hard to keep up with the younger Soldiers. It wasn't because my skills were diminishing it was because my physical limitations wouldn't allow me to do things they could. So I resolved to becoming more a mentor to the next generation of Soldiers and finally passed the guard / torch as you put it. We get lost in our daily stresses as well as falling in to life's traps i.e. ego, vanity, and other psychological factors that keep us from getting back into the training. Appreciate this video and will print out your rules as well as getting back into my training regimen. Thanks.

[@kevinmask]

Wow.... at 51 and formerly very athletic, I REALLY needed to hear this. I just wish all schools kept it playful. It doesn't help when your instructor keeps expecting the same thing from you as the 20 something students... It was like I could never please him.

[@EntaroAoV]

Perhaps the feeling of needing to please him is misplaced

[@Samastano]

@@EntaroAoV 19:40

[@nickurbanik3798]

I started when I was 62. Nineteen months later, at the age of 64, I am as keen, if not more enthusiastic, as I was soon after I started. I am a white belt. I can submit some white belts, but I can survive some blue belts without being submitted for seven minutes, on some fairly infrequent occasions. I don't care that I don't submit these much younger, bigger blue belts; I enjoy when they cannot submit me. I just love the fun of it, I never pass an opportunity for rolling. I have never sat out a rolling session unless there was no partner available. I train at least four times a week in my gym on average; six times last week. I will keep this up till I am too injured to continue. My injuries have never stopped me from getting into classes (except the very rare occasions when I had a cold; don't want to make my friends sick). Even then, I came to class to watch. Very few workmates persisted more than one lesson. I think it's because I worry very little if I am beaten, but want to persist to get better. And over the months, I see that I am, very slowly but perceptibly. Finally, I really like my fellow training students, and I really like my instructors.

[@bryanvincent4927]

Never took a JJ class in my life but the philosophy keeps bringing me here. Learned so much from Rener and Ryron and Rickson and Kron.

[@MrDanielWP]

Bryan Vincent - start bjj. It's amazing.

[@quasar4601]

BJJ maybe is the most important martial arts to have ..

[@EPantano]

47-year-old, three-stripe white belt here. I've never enjoyed anything as much as I'm enjoying learning jiu-jitsu. My 17-year-old son is learning along with me, and one of my best days was when he tapped me (I outweigh him by more than 100 lbs and obviously I'm older). I look forward to staying healthy and rolling into my 80's or 90's. Thank you for this video - I'll be watching this periodically as I age!

[@Tomadair1]

You boys are such a credit to your families and fighting arts as a whole ,you have gone beyond blackbelt and are now teaching the ultimate martial art ,that of being able to defeat yourself ,your own ego ,when that is done you can still be beaten in combat but never defeated ,,,,ever,,,, thank you for this and God bless you.

[@jonathanmacdonald]

4 years off the mats, now 50yrs old, was waiting for a ‘sign’ to get me back into rolling…and this video has done it. Thank you.

[@paulslayton7730]

I'm 47, will be at BJJ class number four day after tomorrow. You guys captured a spirit and wisdom that I didn't know I needed as I laugh because my shrimping sucks. What a journey!

[@yogajitsu7252]

Thing that I really like about these two is that they don't look or sound like your standard testosterone loaded tatooed rhino. They are masters and killers and you can kind of see that in thier aura, but they are also intelligent guys that you feel you could actually have a conversation with. And if you watch some of the Gracie challenge vids you can see Ryron as a 16 year old mixing it with bigger older guys. He's been there! There is a calm intelligent confidence about these two that I really like, especially Ryron.

[@TacDonkey]

Thanks guys. I got a lot out of it. I'm 42 and a purple belt. I wish I started training at a younger age, like my children have. But I'm on my journey. I've been hurt countless times but keep coming back. I agree with the concepts and it is good to see how your philosophy translates to your students. I am a Gracie student and value the teachings. My goal is black belt by 50...and I'm ahead of schedule. And even if a 17year old blue belt taps me out, I'm still in for life. Thanks

[@l3git_papa]

I am mid 40s and coming off cancer starting Jiu-jitsu for the first time. My doctor recommended this to get back to being active. Seeing this video only being 2 days in helps me confirm what I already thought. I am using this as survival for my own health not to fight or always win but to live a healthy life. I will use these tips to the end

[@rajagopaladas]

I'm 40 years old and am just discovering Jiu-Jitsu, and am super encouraged to begin my journey. I love the energy and attitude of the Gracies and feel honored to have their guidance, wisdom and friendly rapport available right now.

[@bradadams2414]

I started taking jiu-jitsu at the ripe old age of 58. (5 months ago). I love it. At this stage I am still "The Nail". I'm getting smashed on a regular basis (30 years ago, my Ego would have had a Big problem getting "rag-dolled" the way I am right now). I have had a few injuries (never knew about the floating rib, until BJJ). What makes it so much fun, is the environment. The higher Belts don't just grab you and smash you, they work with you, help you, advise you, encourage you, then put you to sleep. I'm not concerned about my belt status. I am just enjoying the journey.

[@Fernando-gw5zf]

Fantastic and inspiring explanation guys.! That motivated me a lot, as I am 46 yo and quit JJ 13 years ago at Purple Belt. Now my son is 24yo Blue Belt and is pushing me to restart trainning along with him. After this video I am 100% ready to go. Thank you Ryron and Rener !

[@dr.cayman1426]

Thanks guys. I'm a 54 year old blue belt who sometimes beats himself up when I lose to some of our tough 20-30 year olds. I appreciate your perspective and I'll try to keep the 5 rules in mind as I go forward.

[@chiroinnc]

These two guys have an amazing amount of wisdom for their age. I am very impressed by what they said in this video.

[@funkychunky3570]

Whats up Gene

[@phobowl]

I had a torn pec defending an armbar at 42 years old. After watching this video I was able to go back and train smarter, better and best of all... No injuries. Awesome video guys thanks for the mind opening perspective.

[@chriskaufman2262]

"It is possible to commit no mistakes and still loose. That is not a weakness. That is life" Captain Jean Luc Picard - Star Trek: NG S2E21

[@jonathanhale2669]

Nice quote - the word is lose, not loose, as in not tight.

[@naccibobacci]

This video is so helpful. I'm a 48 year old White Belt with four months in. I have thought of quitting a dozen times but some how continue to go back. I work with my hands and body and can't remember how many times I woke up the next morning after practice feeling like a truck ran me over or unable to close my hands. Anyways, just you fellas acknowledging the struggle and taking the time to give this advice and words of encouragement makes me want to roll. Thanks.

[@ruiseartalcorn]

Wise words indeed! I don't practice BJJ, however I am a 58 year old Kung Fu Sifu and have no doubt that a fit, young 20 year old would probably kick my butt in sparring. Having said that, my focus these days is on being the best 58 year old I can be and the best teacher I can be. To me, a Black Belt isn't about being able to beat the shite out of everyone, it's about being the best one can be and passing on one's experience and knowledge to others. Great video. Well done guys! I have great respect for BBJ and the Gracie family. Awesome martial artists!

[@ruiseartalcorn]

Sorry, a typo! I obviously meant BJJ ;) Note to self: Wear the right glasses when typing ;)

[@lilt504]

Thank you. I am 57 and in good shape, but struggling with keeping up with younger belts. Your rules hit me quickly. Basic. Direct. Helpful. And give me hope. These discussions are better than just studying techniques. Please continue with other topics. Sincerely A.

[@63doughnut]

The vid is very encouraging and wise - I'm 70 and an instructor in grappling and still train heavy-ish with weights - I've never rated myself highly as a fighter 'cos I suffer from asthma, but I'll be cheeky and say I'm a good teacher. The 'Boyd Rule' is a good concept. Sometimes I get discouraged if I struggle with my huge , powerlifting students ,but ... I try to teach them well. Then [ ho ho ] I get flattened even harder. I'm going to give you the SIXTH rule of training hard for fifty years : BE PATIENT WITH INJURIES. Don't despair , as some do , because you're 3 months out of the game and you have to train at less intensity for a while as you heal - YOU COULD BE TRAINING FOR THE NEXT FIFTY YEARS.

[@tracydreelin1119]

VVery inspiring.... Im a white belt, at the start of my Bjj life journey, Im 53 with many injuries...I feel like crying out of frustration, I hurt so much. Have only just begun to actually hear ...your 6th.. Mr Smyth, you rock ! kind regards a Bjj friend.

[@choiceblade]

Don't be the rider thinking he's the roller coaster. Know that IF we're lucky and/or wise enough to be on the ride, everyone on it is taking the same path. So, the guy on back can look forward to the thrill which the guy on front is already done with. It's not about the rider (ego). It's about the ride (joy). I love you guys. This is my favorite video ever... I'm 53... and never even rolled before. Deep respect and Peace to you, my bruvs. You are doing a great thing, and like noone else in the space is or even could.

[@scotttutt7487]

Thanks for the tips, Im a 55 yr old blue belt who`s been training for about 3 yrs and I do sometimes let it get to me when a younger white or blue belt beats me easily, but I just try to remember that I`m doing this for my health and let the ego go, I`ve been training off and on since the 70`s in karate and I`m not used to being humbled so easily

[@jamesvigsherrill5912]

Absolutely fantastic. I live in TN, am 55, a black belt in Jiu Jitsu from almost 20 years ago (not Gracie style - more old, Japanese style) and have started back because I missed it and my youngest daughter started up with it. My ego made me want to be better than I was and it been quite humbling. The techniques are much different and far more technical but I realize why I missed it. Really fun and refreshing (once i got my ego in check). This was a really great video for me . You have made me think - and smile. Thanks!

[@jorge31415927]

15 years ago, I could bench press 400 pounds, squat and deadlift 500 pounds .. I felt I could hit as hard as Tyson when I would train with a heavy bag (yes delusion).. injuries and age took their toll and I decided to accept it and reinvent myself .. I started doing more cardio, calisthenics, etc.. 6 months ago I did 1,013 push-ups in less than 90 minutes .. I was equally as proud of that as the max bench ..great message gents

[@DrJosephKim7]

When I first saw this video I was a early 40 yr old white belt and it helped me so much. I saw what was happening at my gym. Now, almost 8 years later I am a brown belt and it still applies. I'm about 6ft 200 and we have blue belts that are 6'4 250 and in their 20s and it's a touch match. Sure I can beat them but it takes a while and sometimes I get way more tired bc they are so strong and heavy. But here's the thing, I no longer care. I just do what I do. BJJ is a life long game... Hope some of you old folks dont quite if you're starting in your 40s 50s and even 60s. It's not about other people but you! Oss~

[@thedumbnicname]

This video hit home... Been training for a couple years no GI, and was able to hold my own, then started getting smashed by the younger guys and my first thought was that I was getting worse. So I stopped jiu jitsu and focused on Muay Thai, but it got in my head and I stopped sparring there also. As a 41 year old, I had not lost my love for jiu jitsu, just my drive. This video kick started my drive again, knowing that I'm not the only one. The only difference is that I am probably going to change from no GI to GI. And that before I was not interested in belt testing at all, just wanted to train, but now I am determined to one day earn my black belt... Thank you

[@artmccormack]

At 44 I've been training for 5 years and have made it to 1 stripe purple; that said, this video is such an "aha" because I'm right in the middle of experiencing so much of what you guys are talking about. I love BJJ so much that, although the thought of quitting may have crossed my mind, I would never consider quitting, but I can understand why some guys might. Right now I'm experiencing younger blue belts tapping me. It's so easy to let the ego get in the way and feel diminished by it, but even that in and of itself is a valuable BJJ lesson - a lesson in humility. This video is saved at the top of my favorites because I want to listen to it over and over, especially on those days when I get feeling like I took two steps back...lol...thanks men.

[@ReverendTFunk]

I greatly appreciate the Boyd Belt idea. I am 59 years old, a former Judoka who started Tae Kwon Do a year ago. I was out of a gi for 30 years and having more fun than ever. "If the student cannot beat the Master, the Master has failed."

[@robertrhinehart4779]

This is the single most important jiu-jitsu instructional video made! At 47 and training for 20+ years, I have often returned to watch this to help me through my journey! Thank you Gracie family!

[@sabtiy80]

I dont agree with everything Rener and Ryron say (specially the online jiu jitsu University belt promotion stuff) but everyone should watch this video, not only jiu jitsu practitioners, also practitioners of other martal arts and even people who trains other stuff, im 34 years old and a blue belt in bjj, and this video gave me a wake up call, i will try to watch it or remember it every time i doubt and want to quit. Thanks guys, you are very intelligent, Well spoken and polite, i salute you for giving so much for Sharing your knowledge to everyone.

[@MAI1775]

Retro Sport with the online belt promotion you can’t actually wear the belt until you go to their school, or a school that teaches style and spar in person to show that you actually know the techniques. If you pass, then you get your belt. They have a video explaining this too.

[@brianjohnson3209]

I missed my calling guys...thats some of the most wise / comprehensive advice on teaching, parenting, mentoring I've ever heard...Respect!

[@hipqban169]

As I get older, I try to focus more on timing and awareness of my opponents moves beating them to the punch instead of fighting them. It saves me a lot of energy and my Bjj looks sharper. Oss Pedro sauer. Learned it from him

[@overtured]

One of the best videos related to martial arts out here. Just moved from my home country to Australia, I'm a BB in another martial art, have 37yo, learned how to live with the pain (one day will be gone) and started JJ (It was the only available in the city). I'm really enjoying the experience and how my knowledge can be stronger, and it's true, in my dojo in Brazil, most of the students who give up had complains about NOT ACHIEVING *something* very physical and forgot about the real meaning, no matter which martial art. Martial arts it's about the walk, not the end road. If you walk enough you will understand how to enjoy all the moments, including the "failures". Congrats guys, I'm proud of being brazilian when I see a video like this one.

[@anoktokbatosai8113]

You guys are awesome! I’m going through this at 47 years of age. Thank you 🙏 so much for the very wise outlook.

[@TimeBandit1133]

I appreciate this breakdown channel so very much. Thank you. I began my jiu jitsu journey under Master Royce at the Torrance academy. I got and beat terminal cancer back in 1998 which ended my training. I am now 51 years old and considering jumping back into the Gi.

[@davidludwig3975]

This was so inspiring guys. Im 41 years old and starting my first class tomorrow. I've done striking arts for 30 years, but this is a new journey for me. Thank you guys for the insight. I can't wait to roll!

[@stephenpalacios]

I am 55 and just signed up for Gracie Combatives through Gracie University. I have spent over thirty years wanting to take Jiu Jitsu and am finally able to do it. Now, that I am finally enrolled, I want to thank first your Grandfather and then your Dad, and both of you. I am so inspired and want to learn. My goal is to one day achieve the rank of Blue Belt. Thank you for demonstrating the love and passion of the Art and I am blessed to be able to learn from the both of you. It would be a dream to one day make it out to California, but that will come one day. Until then, thank you again.

[@billaiken9959]

I am 65 and just about to sign up! All I need now is a training partner, that's the tricky bit!

[@bjjaddict4126]

This is brilliant! I am 45 and I plan on training till I can't! I know an 90 year old Judo master who is one of the best teachers I have ever had the honor to learn from. He still trains but it's very light and very free style. My BJJ is still a work in progress never stop learning! Thank you Guys!

[@SciSciToys]

Bjj Addict Go for it! Is the 90yr old in Japan or US? Tell me more about him please.

[@bjjaddict4126]

He is here in the US he trains a little with a few of his students. He is an amazing teacher he will do seminars. He can sometimes go off on tangents a little.

[@SciSciToys]

Bjj Addict Sounds great! Just have to be careful with injuries I suppose.

[@bjjaddict4126]

I have been meaning to get an interview with him to post on my youtube.

[@SciSciToys]

Bjj Addict That would be great, please do.

[@philpoma2055]

I really appreciate this post. As a practitioner approaching 50, that negative voice comes and I start beating myself up - as described in the video. I always come back and listen to this for the lessons, motivation, and encouragement. Thanks again!

[@peterdesmier6165]

This was so helpful and inspiring as a 68 year old new to BJJ! Thanks.

[@45firepro]

That last....MOST Famous Move (at the end), was the Best!!! Seems like good rules to live by, as well. You guys are Good Men and I know you make your Family Proud!

[@sabrinapeters5478]

This just made me cry.. .thank you Gracie family. I truly wish you had a training facility in my area. I love watching your videos! You educate not only in your field but life lessons that apply to everyone....you make people feel as if you are talking straight to them personally...thats amazing! So thank you.

[@mikie6453mikie]

Good vid guys, I just hit 70 and still keep up with the Gracie's, online these days but I still think I can hold my own. I used to practice with Rorion, Rickson and Royce in Torrance/Redondo Beach. I'd walk thru the kitchen where there were crates of bananas, to the garage. As Rorion would walk by he'd bump Ryron, maybe 4 years old, he'd say 'base." Great family, great success story. Keep it going.

[@SciSciToys]

Im 48 and always wanted to do martial arts but never knew what to do, Ive done wing chun, aikido, Taiji and others but when it came to it, I got stabbed on the street 6 times, my martialarts didnt save me, I wasnt that good at martial arts for sure but it was over before I knew what happened, now I want to train and wondering for my age could I train in BJJ, but watching this video showed me that I can, thanks guys, I thought the Gracie people are full of themselves and prideful etc but actually you guys seem nice and good people, thanks for opening my eyes.

[@michael.schuler]

Thank you for this excellent long term perspective. I have practiced another martial art for nearly 50 years, and I have experienced all the challenges you describe. A fundamental principle passed on by my Sensei, Ohshima Tsutomu, is that we have three lives: our own, our juniors', and our seniors'. By example, he teaches that as instructors, our goal should be that our juniors "stand on top of our shoulders." Our aim should be to support and inspire our juniors to reach a higher level then we ourselves can attain.

[@Rlancon83]

Thank you so much for this video. I was getting down on my performances recently. Younger guys I would beat started giving me problems and tapping me out sometimes. This helps me mentally. Thanks again.

[@scottsteinberg4993]

As a 54 yo white belt - I watch and rewatch this wisdom to remind myself about the "rollercoaster" and "Boyd" scale. A great video!!

[@LouisesLife]

Sunday was my first day back on the mat after 10 years, I think your right about the ego thing, we need to leave it at the door.

[@ChrisM-tn3hx]

Thanks for this. I'm 45, had some pretty severe knee injuries in my 20s (tore my ACL, MCL and meniscals in both legs, never had surgery to fix them). I trained for a while in BJJ, and LOVE it, but haven't trained for a long time, because frankly, I feel like I can't handle it. Thanks to your encouragement, I think I may go back to it. I'll have to be more careful, and check my ego, but it really is an awesome experience. Thanks again.

[@thomasjoseph9224]

How’d it go? I feel like this about my shoulders...

[@Willkakau]

Hey everyone! Iam 55 years old (soon to be 56), a couple of years ago I used to train 3 times one week and twice the next and so on....now I train twice a week (I do not play around, I AM QUICK TO TAP, not chokes!). I just started Judo twice a week (plus JJ of course), so far so good, let's see how it goes. I hv 155 pounds, hv never somoked, I enjoy a good glass of wine once in a while, I try to eat really healthy and I think supplements its a MUST. 1- whey protein, 2-omega 3 fish oil, 3-after workout supplement, 4- a multivitamin, 5- BCAA (at least that's what I take and its working for me!). JJ, best art ever, peace out!!!

[@peterhammond1082]

You guys are awesome and I love the videos.This is such an important video. This works the other way when the older coloured belt beats the young weightlifter dude. If the young guy has a huge ego, he might walk out the door and never come back. Humility is a two way street. I started to get better at BJJ when I started to let the ego go and just roll to enjoy myself. I got even better when I focused on making my partner better. I got smashed by a tree at work that resulted in multiple injuries that took 2 years to heal. I got cleared by the doctors and returned to the mat. I was like a white belt all over again. I worked hard and got my purple belt a year later (came back as a blue of course) It was a great moment for me because I didn't quit on myself when I had good reason to do so. When my instructor put that belt around me I felt overwhelmed. This sport is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me. Jiu Jitsu is life and life is Jiu Jitsu. Thank you.

[@lazur1]

These truths apply to every aspect of life: sport, work, personal relationships.... Never retire.

[@MarkJohnson-nz4os]

Such a wonderful video. I am 42 years old and after watching this, I will be attending my first lesson this week. I especially loved the wisdom spoken about "passing the guard".. Thank you.

[@22Judoka]

I am a 48 BJJ Purple Belt I think it is time to get back on the mat. This was real motivational!

[@alancornfield3107]

Thank you ,I’m 58 and started at 55. Jj is my happy place . I want to continue for years to come . This gives me hope I’ve been afraid to try and compete But now I will. Funny ,I enjoy the belt I’m at And have no desire to be promoted . Ironically,some of my greatest thrills I teaching someone and they use that move on me Thanks guys

[@Oliverisloved]

Thank you for this video. It was very motivating and inspiring! As someone who just started BJJ, female, lighter weight than all the other students (by 20 to 100+ lbs), older (most students are 10-20 years younger) and as someone who is extremely hard on myself, these tips will come handy. I've saved this to re-watch in the future. Thank you for making a terrific video.

[@evankrhodes]

I'm 52 and have been training for about 7 years. I had the pleasure of meeting you guys at Gracie HQ. I have experienced some of the lessons you guys talk about but man, its great to hear this again. Mahalo boys! Always great content.

[@danielscanlon5389]

I wish I had watched this video 5 years ago when I stopped for nearly all these reasons. Thank you so much for your wisdom, I'm going back soon. 😁

[@kevinmask]

Total wisdom. I had to quit because of medical problems. I started at 46 and was doing well (3 stripe blue took me 3 yrs), but my medical problem (Didn't know what it was) kept stopping me but now that I know what it is (I just turned 54) and know that I just cannot push myself like I could when I was younger, I am ready to get back on the mat.... but I NEEDED to hear this. I need to be able to NOT try to win all the time. I need to be able to roll with grace and peace.

[@yilativs]

Here are my rules: 1. Warm Up - otherwise your joins won't last long. 2. Work on your conditions hard - the older you are the more you have to work to catch up with those who is 20 years younger. 3. Spar on 60-75% of your abilities most of the time to avoid injuries. 4. During training rolling AVOID those who tries to WIN by all means(ask around who injured more guys and just do not roll with him, cause even if u win 9 out of 10 once he can win and you may hear your elbow or knee snapping). 5. When you get an injury(you can not avoid it) STOP immediately and do not start rolling till the injury is cured and at least 2 more weeks (it can be a month or a YEAR, follow the doctor's advise even if you feel good). I also have a rule number 6 - NEVER GIVE UP TRAINING, always remember, that you will have a lot of time to rest when you die. If u think about it often enough, you will consider death not as a tragedy but as a deliverance.

[@BigBrandonMarcel]

Amen brother!!

[@danfreeborn1050]

I am 41 and have trained in Tae Kwon Do since 1980. I've thought about all these things these guys are talking about since I turned 30-ish, or maybe even before. I think what these guys are saying is brilliant. It's genuine wisdom about continuing a healthy life, physically and psychologically. I gave up on physical activity a number of years ago when I realized my body wasn't getting any younger, but last year I had a heart attack and by-pass surgery. I am (literally) dying to get back into physical activity, and martial arts is the only "sport" I've ever been good at and felt was worth the pain and effort. I love these guys. Over and over, they talk sense, and not just superficial sense. I also happen to be a high school English teacher of 17 years, and what they say about teaching is dead on. This is really good stuff. Much respect, and I'm moving from Madrid, Spain to Los Angeles in Sept. I think I'll be signing up.

[@rollingkneebar3534]

+Dan Freeborn Do it brother :) I'm 19 and I started around 5 months ago, and I hope to be doing this until the day I die. Tie that white belt around your waist and get rolling.

[@danfreeborn1050]

Thanks, man. I'm rather pleased with the idea of a white belt. I have a strong feeling I'm going to love this. Good luck with your training, man!

[@rogerbachman343]

Im going to be 42 in a few months, and I am a White Belt. These are some wise words to live by, great video.

[@blade18rivers]

You Ryron and Rener Gracie brothers... You were the ones who got me into training Jiujitsu 6months ago at 42years old. I've been getting beat by youngsters from day 1! But with this video, you brothers just sent me back to the mat and kept me going!

[@drusselle1]

Great video.. Considering that I didn't start Jiu Jitsu till I was 49, this is very helpful. I luckily have only had one injury (besides the usual bruises). I have also had the privilege of training with Royce, Royler and Rener Gracie and look forward to doing so again! Now if only I could remember everything they taught, I would be a force to be reckoned with. :)

[@Emmanuel-ti6ym]

Don't forget to take detailed notes with sketches. Just like you did in College.

[@tesla1947]

I'm 68 in MA my whole life. The black belts talking are wise. Everyone should listen. Good job, guys.

[@SeekerLand]

Beautiful, I love you guys.

[@pyramidiots]

y'all been making content for 10 years, steadily and quality. respect

[@donaldsavage3699]

very inspirational I remember after my first lesson I discovered it works for me it became addictive, that's all I thought about and if only I had more time for it! thank you for your help!

[@woodie62]

What you guys have said here is simple but profoundly golden. The idea that instructors can't be beaten by the lesser experienced players has heralded for so many years and has given false hope to many of would-be martial arts practitioners. Thank you for admitting this very simple truth.

[@Opeth221]

You can apply this to all martial arts. Such a good video.

[@SauloFong]

Great video! I am a two-stripe white belt in BJJ and also an Aikido instructor and these principles are also valid for every martial art. Those are the secrets to not be tapped out by any martial art in your life.

[@goonerdotcom]

43 and just started BJJ. I've watched your family and you guys for years. You two guys are such fantastic ambassadors for this sport/ fighting system. You guys are old souls, probably the wisdom BJJ has inculcated into you. Thank you for this strength and wisdom. After my first 4 days of training I'm still as enthused as ever ..... though I've spent the majority, on my back thinking - shit this looked so easy when GSP did it and also that B.O is a bitch. .... LOL

[@hannofwanneroo]

+goonerdotcom I am 47 and have my first class next week, reading comments like yours gives me confidence that its not too late ,thanks man

[@goonerdotcom]

craig hannah Keep at it brother, it's amazing when you start figuring out stuff and when repetitive exercises become natural movements. It's so very satisfying!!!!! I've lost weight and my cardio is better than it ever was. I wish the same on you and every 40+ person who starts this journey. Best of luck !!!!!!

[@franaphonic]

+goonerdotcom I way older that than an still thinking about joining.

[@deaneng8540]

+goonerdotcom Get this I can't freaking believe I'm 54 now and just had 3 classes of jie jitsu and it's been great! Feel like I'm in my 30s still but I'm hoping I can keep it up. Always wanted to learn martial arts but never for some reason made the effort, but now, I figure it's never too late! Who knows maybe I can get my black belt before 70! lol

[@rollingkneebar3534]

+goonerdotcom Oh the BO...I can't decide if it's worse in gi or no gi...

[@SMELLTHEBULL]

Love these guys. Their enthusiasm and charisma is infectious.

[@robertpolanski6776]

I am convinced that the main reason why people quit isn't their ego but INJURIES which need more time to heal and injuries occure more often when you are older. That the main problem!!

[@CorrieBergeron]

I'm a long-time educator, including martial arts. I've committed the student-killing errors you talk about ~18:00-20:00. I try to avoid them now, and try to pass that on to the teachers that I now teach. Well done.

[@anoosh2075]

I am 54 and 232 pounds and just started Juijitsu for the first time. I started at august 16th and I have been training three times a week. I have to say it is been the best thing I have ever experienced. I feel great and I am toning up. I got my first strip two weeks ago and I attended my first tournament a week ago. I love everything about. Look forward to learn all I can and continue until I can roll with any age and any weight any belt.

[@elifreshcut9128]

anoosh2075 ...Never stop!!!

[@Ralph-e5n]

This was a very helpful video for me. I actually started in my mid 20's and had to stop and didn't start again til my 40's and got a blue belt but started again now at 56. I felt overwhelmed at keeping my rank with all these younger white belts. This video felt like you were speaking right to my issues. Thanks to both of you.