Should You Start BJJ if You’re Out of Shape ?

Do I need to be in shape before I start BJJ?
This has to be one of the most commonly asked question I get from people who are new to Brazilian Jiu-jitsu.
Most commonly it stems from fear of the unknown. People often build a Brazilian Jiujitsu class up into something in their head. Then once they try it for the first time they realize it's nothing like they expect.
I've spoken to many people who finally tried their first Brazilian Jiujitsu class and loved it. And many of them tell me that they wanted to train a long time ago. But didn't because of fear of different things.
One of the fears that pops up a lot is not being in good enough shape.
But like many people will find. You can't really get into the kind of shape you need to be in for BJJ until you start training BJJ.
So if you're in the same boat as our friend Will. And you want to start BJJ training but you're nervous about not being in good enough shape.
Don't WAIT! Start training now.
Hope the video was helpful!
- Chewy
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[@viciousanime7090]

"waiting to start training martial arts until you're in "better shape" is like a child not going to school until they are "smart enough"" ~anonymous

[@Sinekyre14]

Some kids with 80-90 IQ shouldn't go to school, they'll just feel like failures. It's no different with martial arts. Some people shouldn't do it because they have bad genetics, poor mobility, misalignment in their body, poor bone density or weak joints.

[@SadaParkour]

The Forms you re freaking ridiculous ! Tell me why MA come from asia then !?

[@Sinekyre14]

Some kids with 80-90 IQ shouldn't go to school, they'll just feel like failures It's no different with martial arts. Some people shouldn't do it because they have bad genetics, poor mobility, misalignment in their body, poor bone density or weak joints. Sada your comment made no sense on any level, so I reposted mine.

[@viciousanime7090]

life is full of hardships, and growth comes from facing them. i dont think anyone can suggest quitting/not trying is a good way to face difficulties. though its not a hard rule. you cant grow much if you end up dying from it. but still, as a general rule i stand by it. yes Einstein failed in school, and was a genius, but i doubt him not going to school and ultimately failing made him worse, if he didnt he may not have been as great as he was. if anything it helped him grow. his theory of special relativity was limited and didnt work the way he wanted it to and could be considered a failure. but eventually it got him to his general rule of relativity. in fact Einstein even says education is very important. "but with the important tasks of education and enlightenment, without such freedoms there would have been no Shakespeare, no Goethe, no Newton, no Faraday, no Pasteur, no Lister". though that quote was about ensuring safety and the accessibility of education for everyone, but nonetheless even tho he failed in school and it probably hurt him emotionally as failure does with everyone. he still believes in usefulness of education as a institution. ofc everyone is individual and what might work for one might not work for another. im sure some people arent meant for the school structure and may even be hindered by it. but thats not what the quote was saying. it was more about quitting/refusing to try because of someone's perspective of themselves, which is not always accurate to begin with.

[@DhoaCS]

Lol

[@jamesmcgraw7447]

Started 3 weeks ago. 53 years old, 325 lbs, talk about out of shape! Lol trying to make 2-3 classes a week! Just try my best!

[@nando936]

Awesome man

[@osutinheizu8250]

Good job man, keep it up!

[@youmadbro7733]

How’s it going James? You still training?

[@bjjrookat4255]

Great work James. I started in March. I’m 42 and 320lbs when I started. Down to 295 now

[@poetryinwar811]

Fuck yeah

[@dblas619]

I'm that white belt that gasses out during warmups. #1 thing is I make it into the gym. Been training for a few weeks at least 3-4 times a week. I started at 245lbs...checked myself last night and I'm down to 237. Only 60lbs to go! Thanks for all your awesome vids, Chewy! I watch and re-watch them all the time. To the guy that's worried about being THAT guy, just go train! A jiu jitsu gym has probably the least judgey people in any other kind of gym.

[@doesntmatter6545]

Dominic Blas Good job, keep it up!

[@djangounchained9387]

How much do you weigh now?

[@Beastius24]

Well done and keep it up!

[@tashidoodle523]

I hope you're still doing well! Good job!

[@kingelvis5502]

41 years old - 5'10 - 235 - desk job, last time i ran/worked out was 2 years ago. 2nd day was yesterday and i gas out during warm ups, i roll 3 times out of 5 at the end of class; top of foot is raw, elbow is raw, fingertips ache, whole body is screaming at me, im the absolute least able in a class of 20 and...my heart and soul are happy.

[@MrNubix]

Chewy, damn you'r such a nice guy. You are really a proud example for the combat sports community.

[@WorldCrafterPrime]

I started watching before I started training! I hadn't worked out for years, first month was rough, first night was embarrassing, gassed in 3 min. 4 months later, can roll for 20 min, recover and do another 20. You rock Chewie!

[@Chewjitsu]

You rock Nate! ;) Way to stick with it brother.

[@playerone1194]

That’s encouraging to hear. Went to my first session with a friend (he’s been going for about 2 years now) last night. Couldn’t do a basic front roll in the warm up (always been a fear of mine). I’m clueless on the moves when to do when rolling. Will get better I hope.

[@LaBear666]

last year I was diagnosed with high blood pressure at the age of 37 , it was that high work wouldn't let me in the factory for safety reasons an it scared the crap out of me .... I was told to a excersize within reason by my doc as it can help lower bp , I hate running and the whole gym thing is boring ... so I started bjj (slowly lol ) ..... within a month my bp had dropped back to a safe level which allowed me to return to work ..... i owe alot to bjj :)

[@hzuiel]

That is awesome. I have concerns about my blood pressure at 31, I know i've been in much much better shape when i was doing bjj so I want to get back to it. A while back i got really light headed and since i don't own a bp cuff, I went to a nearby pharamacy and used their self serve kiosk that takes your blood pressure and it was high. I honestly think exercise and stress levels are the biggest factors in blood pressure management, not just something that "can help".

[@LaBear666]

hzuiel I still get light headed if I stand up too fast lol and even see stars if I do too many rolls . get it checked properly its not called the silent killer for nothing ..... I felt normal the day I got sent to hospital as a stroke risk :(

[@Chewjitsu]

That's awesome! Congrats.

[@MoonLight-zd3sb]

La Bear well all do bro your awesome great comment keep up the great work

[@MoonLight-zd3sb]

La Bear have you tried going plant based so many benefits my brother helio Gracie was a vegetarian fact!

[@tommartin1223]

If u wait until you are in shape. You will never start

[@KeepingItDutch]

Great advice, I'm a former high school wrestler and I served in the Marines and I enrolled my 2 daughters into their first class a month ago and adult class is right after the kids. So I stuck around for my first class as well and I am way out of shape, no where close to my younger days and the first BJJ class was hard but I loved every min of it. When I get tired (which is often) I just tell them look at me I'm fat I need a break lol. They all get it and are just glad I am there. very supportive group off people. I am very glad we all joined this gym. thanks for the videos you do a great job.

[@KLPCHoldings]

Chewy got me through my first training sessions! Best BJJ vids on the web! Tell Chad I said what's up! I'll be hitting you up when I have questions, for sure! #KLPC #WeTrain

[@Miguelangelfilms94]

Totally get you. Been out of the corps for a few years and man those few years weighed on me. It's almost like starting all over. You know it's going to hurt and suck, but you know the feeling of being in shape is worth it so it drives you as well.

[@JoseACostan]

How are you doing now? Currently in the air force, have a daughter and just started bjj 2 days ago.

[@gozza1993]

Wat does being a high school wrestler and serving in the marines have to do with the rest of ur comment

[@birdfellas]

I know your comment was made a year ago. But bro, you’re the man! I started my art the same way. Brought my son and then I started. I get hurt take breaks I mean months but find my way back. Martial arts provides so much benefit in all aspects. Hope you stayed with it.

[@thomasbanta9770]

Worried about being a white belt that gasses out...? Im the blue belt that gasses out lool even that's not so bad.

[@jamesmol3634]

Hey man I'm interested to know how far you've come

[@hollygamble15]

@@jamesmol3634 I also am curious

[@jb-jbjb]

Literally spent 2 years worrying about this till I finally went tonight being very out of shape. I was gassed a minute into warmup but it was great.

[@jb-jbjb]

A month later, I'm down 20lbs and feel 10 years younger already.

[@stevenm7692]

j b it’s definitely hard work, mentally and physically 👍 keep it up

[@raykobud]

i started at 47, out of shape and felt pathetic for the first month. In my third month now and feel terrific. First class is the toughest. Get in there! Cheers!

[@raykobud]

@@stuartclubb4302 kneebared at white 4 stripes. Covid hit and haven't been back since. Will be going back soon though

[@DocLeon77]

All four of my kids started jiu-jitsu last June. I have always wanted to start classes but I'm permanently disabled with injuries and had been bedridden because the doctors didn't know what was going on. Finally after watching my kids from the sidelines for two weeks, I joined. I lost 24lbs. in 2 months and crawled off the mat everyday the 1st 4 months. 10 months later, I still I can spar and not have to crawl off of the mat or to the end of the line. I have to alternate ice pack and heat pack afterwards and rest during the day for the next class...but it gives me a goal and I have improved my overall fitness just by putting I mat time.

[@Delamthedestroyer]

This is so cool. Would love to know if you still train.

[@ohplezz]

I think for injury prevention, like getting your core/lower back in better shape and work on some black, hip shoulder flexibility before you go could help prevent you from getting hurt early on in BJJ and quitting.

[@matthewrandall9833]

That's exactly what I have been doing, that's good advice.

[@sillyfarmerbilly8872]

I had my first lesson 3 days ago. I'm 60 lbs overweight. I gassed out during the warm-up. Freaking cart wheels!?! Then I gassed out after the first drill. Hated my life. Then during the second drill, I thought I was going to die. Then we started rolling. Heart was pounding all night, I wanted to cry. Didn't throw up, but it was close. Can't wait to go again.

[@bootyodor4555]

how much have you improved since then man?

[@sillyfarmerbilly8872]

@@bootyodor4555 A lot! Those first 2-3 months I was training 5-8 times per week (even though every time I felt like the intensity would kill me). I lost 30 lbs by my first competition. By last March I was about 80 classes in, had tremendously more stamina. Then covid happened, took off until August, lost all the stamina but retained the skills I'd learned when I came back. Trained hard for another 6 months, was due for blue belt, but then i got covid. That was this past March, haven't been to training since, but I'm getting the itch. BJJ is such a gratifying thing to do.

[@llla_german_ewoklll6413]

I just had my first class tonight. I'm 17, 5"9, out of shape (aka 206 pounds), and the most physical stuff I've done was in taekwondo (6 years, but I had like a 7 month break before this point). So what I decided to do was to go and watch one class last night, and then sign up. I got there today, and instead of going for the basics class with the white belts, I went straight for the advanced class with mostly purple and up. Oh, I forgot to mention, it was no gi too. So I had to fight through an hour of getting shit on, and I had to sit out every other time the bell rang. Let me tell, you, I got so tired that my muscles couldn't move, then I waited out a round and tried again. It was the best workout I've ever had, and even though I was getting stomped, it was the most fun I've had in martial arts in a long time. If I'm not too sore tomorrow, I will probably go into the basic class so I can learn the techniques I need to become not dogshit. POINT IS, don't wait. The reason you have been fat, or depressed, or even falling behind in school is because you are waiting for it to happen. You don't have to go in and do what I did, but you should definitely at least start. The brown belts on the mat didn't get their glistening abs because they were sitting around waiting to get good at jiu jitsu. Go out, and go to a class. P.S. Thank you to all the high levels for not breaking my arm before I could tap.

[@spcverger]

I just wanted to say that I was stuck on this same question. I'm 44 years old, and 3 1/2 years ago I weighed 275 (I'm 5'8). I'm now at 235. I was debating this over and over, knowing I was going to be gassed, but I really wanted to get back into martial arts (I studied TKD in the 80s and a little Judo in the 90s) - but I didn't want to be "that guy." I watched a ton of different videos online, and then I stumbled onto this one a few days ago. Thanks to this video, I had my first BJJ class the next night and signed up at the gym. Just like you said, I was gassed in the warm up, but I didn't care. I had to sit out against the wall and catch my breath a few times, but I stayed. And I signed up. Thanks for the advice, you've got a new subscriber and I've now got a lot of videos to catch up on. Thanks Coach.

[@cattalkbmx]

You do a really good job selecting the questions, I've got a lot of answers from you already. Thanks, keep up the good work Chewy.

[@TheSevenJr86]

Anyone who's catching this video and concerned... I wasn't overweight but after years of smoking my breathing was awful, I felt anxiety over not being able to get a deep satisfying breath, I work on a sailing vessel meaning I never really gave exercise much thought which led to me having horrible grandpa knees (I'm 33). I mean, getting off my knee's required 2 hands and a lot of grunting and groaning. I've been doing BJJ 2-3 times a week aprox. 1.5 hours a practice with conditioning thrown in here and there. I'm more flexible than I've ever been and I can get off the ground without my hands or the grunting and groaning. Started looking into breathing exercises/techniques including o2 trainers (like masks or more specific to my case, Bas Rutten's trainer) it's opening up my world, it puts me in a great mood and the comradery is outstanding! In my experience thus far everyone regardless of size or age is encouraging as well as understanding, they care! I was a small kid in school so I was always too self-conscious to train, lift weights, you name it. If that sounds like you dive headfirst into it. I look forward to my nights at the gym, I am a 4 month whitebelt.... 2 birds 1 stone here, At first I was pumped and ambitious to get a blue belt and the day I am awarded I will still be excited as all get out. But my personal journey has started to take over and my concern for belt rank has gone to the way side, get in and train, any reservations you have will disappear if you immerse yourself into the sport itself.

[@amenhighfill9580]

This is awesome advice. I've told people this for years. Marital arts gets you in shape. It's just a fact. Thanks brother.

[@davidzevallos4827]

Legit, these videos got me to start training. Blessed to live like 10 mins away from 10th Planet HQ in DTLA. Started to watch these videos because Chewy has a way of making this type of content super watchable and even if I've re-watched a video I feel like I pick up something new. Thanks for helping me build the courage to start my journey in BJJ.

[@jdub7771]

Exactly what I did! I watched your videos for a while after I stalked a particular school. Your videos helped with the anxiety of the unknown. Been in classes for 3 months now, greatest thing I've ever done and thank you sir for helping!

[@jessicazager28]

Hahahahahahaaa... I'm in the video school stalking phase.

[@p.dookiesalmon6730]

I've been considering starting BJJ, and you've given me the motivation to start. Can't wait to reference your videos to help me along the way. Thanks man

[@wickheinz9337]

That's literally the exact quote that made me join my gym. I have been trying to work on cardio in between classes but honestly, nothing does compare to the full body workout you get in class. I threw up my first 3-4 classes but I didn't go home halfway through, nor did I stop going back. Eventually it goes away and the biggest surprise... no one judged me. Instead I was encouraged to keep coming and continue to grow. I hope someday to look back on this comment and be thankful of how far I have come and of the path I decided to take. Thanks for the wisdom Chewy.

[@tinkywinky3680]

Chewy, you are awesome brother!!! I started no Gi 2 months ago and have watched a ton of your vids. Has helped me understand the whole Jiu Jitsu process. I’m a cop and am doing it just in case one day I get in the shit and need to defend myself. Appreciate all your info.

[@andrewpocoroba]

That was just the answer I was hoping you'd say. Thanks for the positivity. Thumbs up bro.

[@joshuadeaver9749]

Thank you. I've been putting it off for a couple years because I'm so far out of shape. I go today to start at 5.

[@404michaelnotfound]

Reading this today and feeling a bit anxious to give it a try. How are you doing now ?

[@deaththesoul12]

Hey there, recently did my first 2 classes. I'm a skinny 18 year old who's out of shape lol, so far in two classes I can already tell all the drills we do is getting me in better shape. If you haven't gone yet get at it ASAP! :)

[@lonewolfcarper90]

@@deaththesoul12 I've just done my 8th class I'm 30 and am really out of shape! I literally was bed bound for 5 days after my first class lol You're using muscles you never reslised you had! It does get easier though and your body adapts more with each class. Ive decided to move on to another gym though as the one I'm at there's a few people with bad attitudes ( higher belts, well mainly purple belts for some reason I can't figure out lol ) and I've heard nothing but better things about the new gym plus it's cheaper! If I can do it anyone can beleive me! Bjj is my life now and I can't wait to progress my journey further with the new gym 😊

[@madisonsquaredoit2629]

Michael adK 8 months later, you end up giving it a try?

[@davidhutchinson2159]

I'm in pretty bad shape, and before going to my first class a few weeks ago I was absolutely terrified. I've never been a very physical or athletic person, and so I've always avoided that type of thing because it intimidated me. But I came to a crossroads where I realized that that area of my life was seriously underdeveloped, and that if I didn't start BJJ like I'd been wanting to for months, I'd lose respect for myself. I eventually just looked at my fear in the face and DID IT. Not only was that unbelievably satisfying in itself, I'm also finding that BJJ is one of the most fun and powerful tools for self improvement in my life right now. I still get exhausted pretty quickly compared to guys who've been there for longer, but that's to be expected. I heard my coach say that even for people in excellent shape, grappling will exhaust them when they first start. And I believe that, you use muscles on your first day of Jiu Jitsu that you didn't even know you HAD haha. But it's worth it. I completely agree with you Chewjitsu, and if anyone is reading this who's been wanting to try BJJ but have been too nervous, I want you to to feel encouraged to try it. The things they say about the Jiu Jitsu atmosphere is true, there is very little ego and everyone understands what it's like to just be starting. You'll be glad you did. Love your videos Chewjitsu, keep it up!

[@tobiaskareem8987]

David Hutchinson i'm thinking about trying bjj

[@grimnir7177]

Way to be brave, lionheart. Nice work.

[@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.

[@seannyari]

How’s it going, boss?

[@glim3125]

One of my greatest decisions was getting back into shape prior to joining. This was the difference between me puking on the mats or not puking. Yes, I was incredibly sore and muscles hurt that I didn't even know existed but I never once felt like I was going to puke. The real problem I think that exists with the getting in shape first mentality is sometimes it is used as an excuse to never actually get around to joining.

[@reedallidap7173]

I like this guy. Thanks for being humble and understanding not everyone is in fighting shape right off the bat

[@TheJattymay]

I think this is a PERFECT topic!!! I am just a couple months into Jiu Jitsu. I LOVE IT!! I am 47 and PISSED that I did not start years ago (Yes, I have friends who have been trying to get me to the gym for YEARS!!). I am not in the shape I was in when I was in my 20's (Hmmm, imagine that!!).I have a bit of a battle. I am a Merchant Marine, aka sailor, and I do 1 month on, and 1 month off the ship. We are VERY BUSY while at sea, and I really don't have anyone interested in training, nor do I have the space. It is a constant uphill battle to get back in shape, but You are ABSOLUTELY 100% CORRECT!! Just go train and you will get in better shape. Mahalo for ALL the videos Chewy!!

[@Vyantri]

This video relates to me on a spiritual level. I just had my first class yesterday and truth be told I am exactly what you described, the white belt that gasses out during warmups because that is literally exactly what happened. It's a little embarrassing not gonna lie, but I'm still gonna try my hardest and I think my coaches will understand that giving my best is all I need to do even though I gas out often I'm going to class to get in shape exactly as you say. It's like this video was made for me. I just hope some time in the next year or maybe half a year I can look back on this comment and think to myself for the first time in my life, I actually made some progress in improving my fitness because my fitness has been terribly bad for basically my entire life and I've tried going to the gym before and lifting weights, running on the treadmill and stuff but I think that having a coach helps tremendously in my situation. We'll see though I don't want to talk too soon but your video was super encouraging and I'm glad I found it. Thank you!

[@leonoet6401]

lets go man!!! hows your journey so far? do u mind sharin?

[@RamseyDewey]

I get this kind of question ALL THE TIME. You sir, are a paragon of patience.

[@Diggles-xo2dw]

@chewjitsu im 18, 300lbs. I tried my first Jiu-Jitsu class yesterday and i loved it! I went to the advanced class on accident, but the coach said i did really good, we worked on Gogoplatas and i wish i would have started way earlier. Jiu-Jitsu is amazing!!

[@osrikvonjager1717]

I will say it right here you and 1 other person have convinced me that I need to train in this style. Thanks JV

[@Warrior_Culture]

It took every fiber of my being to continue watching this after you said "I hate motorcycles"...but I did it. Good video, excellent feedback, and impressive charisma.

[@alvarojimenezruiz4400]

Great Advice man, I started a couple of months ago, very out of shape and even though I gas out some times during warm up I give all and the best of me and enjoy every second because I know it's good for me, i've been loosing pounds and gradually keeping up to the exercices, hooked for life! Great videos by the way, awesome advice!!!

[@christine5203]

I am starting my first BJJ class tomorrow evening. This video helped me calm my nerves for tonight. I really appreciate the info on your channel. Keep up the good work!

[@bigreg47]

thanks so much brother. I'm 53 still smoke ex CANCER patient, oh whiskey also. I did jiu-jitsu 4yrs back in Chicago got lost in the mind game. but ytub has and u brother letting me know what feels good. And that's my jiu-jitsu school and the jiu-jitsu way of life. I realize that I need jiu-jitsu, wow thanks much.

[@xXGizMonkeyXx]

man, you're the best!! i'm super nervous for my first class but watching your videos is making me feel so much better

[@Chewjitsu]

Don't be nervous. You'll love it.

[@philt6800]

You’re awesome Brother. I’m fortunate to go to a gym where they’re very encouraging as well to beginners. This is why I love Jiu Jitsu so much. A Jiu Jitsu Academy truly becomes a family to all. Much respect 😎

[@chasematthew1757]

I had my first class yesterday. Was super nervous but as soon as I got in there and talked to everyone the nervousness went away. It was a blast and I can’t wait to go back Monday. They want you to enjoy it and want you to succeed. I was so mad I hadn’t done it sooner

[@grantrhoades6853]

Thanks for this video. I finally maned yo and did my first class. I gassed out a whole lot, but everyone was understanding and took their time with me. I got submitted so many times but I had a lot of fun. I signed up with the gym and excited to go on this journey.

[@biggerbitcoin5126]

I lost 17 pounds in 45 days in BJJ.

[@Horus-Lupercal]

Aston Bright How big were you bro?

[@grimnir7177]

Congrats, man.

[@madisonsquaredoit2629]

Left on third base holding a catcher's mitt the cardio is some of the more intense cardio you can get, even just training at a normal pace

[@lemadfab]

I trained judo for 12 years in my teens and then stoped for like nearly 15 years. When I was 36 I was missing it a lot and start training again. Only once a week, then twice a week and now I have added boxing to the training. It’s important to start and push through it but also acknowledge your own limits. It will take times but your body will adapt.

[@french.pineapple.express3871]

Screw being in shape to start, just roll and let the change happen!!! Another great vid Chewy!!!

[@badoocee1967]

Hey Chewie, I have been training for 6-8 mo. and temporarily stopped due to a Family emergency (out of state) and Physical Therapy but I am excited to get back into it. My Instructor said the same thing about training..that the best way to be in shape for BJJ is to train. Thanks for all the info and insight Brother. OSS!!

[@DD-jn1mp]

I just got back into BJJ after a few years and I am so out of shape...it's hard because I used to be way better and healthier...but it's so humbling. You will never find your self worth if you don't war with yourself. And the bjj community is so great. Everyone wants you to succeed.

[@stevecornell5619]

Chewy, great video. I'm a 46 year old ex lot of things (used to be very athletic so the ego gets in my way too). Out of shape and gas out every class but I feel so much better when I go. I can really only handle 2 to 3 classes a week or the body won't handle more (yet). I enjoy the Jiu Jitsu experience and it's a lot of fun so anyone else out there thinking about it. Give it a shot, I think you'll enjoy it. Do it at your own pace and know when to say when. You can do it.

[@Txalo_Guerrero]

Hi. a few months ago I was diagnosticated with a problem in my liver and I get overweight. One month ago I started BJJ and changed my food habits. I am 36. BJJ has been amazing. Its no so easy but it changed my life because has been a transformation of my mind and body. Congratulation for your channel and best regards from Chile.

[@austinknowlton1783]

Thank you for the inspiration and confirmation that I'm doing the right thing. I am definitely the new guy who gasses out during the warmups, and quite frankly have a hard time with some of them. I just turned 49 in June, and started the on-ramp program a month ago weighing about 330. Not too bad considering in August 2018 I weighed in at 466. So yeah, I lost quite a bit on my own. Got down to 290 and was feeling great physically, then depression kicked in and I spent over a year getting fat again until I managed to pull myself out of it. Everyone's at my gym is super supportive and helpful, and I'm not the only old fat guy, just the oldest and the fattest, lol. Between going to class twice a week, walking, and starting a low carb diet again I have lost over 20 pounds and a couple inches off my waist already. Also, did I mention that it caused me to quit smoking as well? I highly recommend to ANYONE reading this who isn't feeling good about the shape you are in to get active doing SOMETHING, even if it isn't BJJ. Doing something is better than doing nothing, and your health and well being will improve like you wouldn't believe.

[@Mactacfitness]

So happy I found this video. Push and confidence I needed

[@SexPantherNinja]

Very inspirational, thank you for this video!

[@giacdeg]

This video is speaking straight to me. I'm 51 and nervous to start. I'm not in terrible shape but I'm kinda old. Really keen to learn to roll tho. When i was a child the name jiu-jitsu had appeal to me out of all the martial arts and i didn't know the first thing about it. I think I'll be a good strangler.

[@Patrick-vh5nr]

Love yours vids, great work mate!

[@jaimesandoval1988]

This video started my BJJ journey. Thanks. 3 classes in and I feel like a foreign student but love it. Thanks bro.

[@colten53]

Agreed. At first it is a challenge, but it really is a gateway to getting in shape. Before I started BJJ, I was out of shape, and I wasn’t big on taking time out of my day to exercise in general. I noticed like a month after I started that I had dropped a pants size while being roughly the same weight. The art itself is really helpful in building muscle in all the necessary areas. In turn, that led me to try out more exercises in my days off in order to improve my physicality even further for Jiu-Jitsu. The best part is that my instructor was very understanding of my initial struggles, and the other students (who are all close friends of mine now) pushed me to do better.

[@mrbarbarycoast8572]

Great video. This is the number one reason that I held off so long on training BJJ. Thanks for this one.

[@A.F.H.]

I weigh 345 and only just started going to no Gi Jiu Jitsu. I'm extremely out of shape despite how athletic I was in the past and although I'm sore I find it quite addicting to go on my three days a week. Luckily though I haven't gassed out yet so if I can do it... literally anyone can do it...

[@jasropergoins2468]

Avery Harris Thank You for sharing this, thank you and congrats on going. Today is my first day

[@robfaget3187]

Avery Harris thanks for the inspiration and keep it up my friend you're awesome

[@Culvey]

I know the feeling. 10 years ago I was 165lb in wrestling... about 7 months ago I was 280lb. I gassed out just walking longer distances, but things change, and working out in any way will help with weight loss. Im now to 225lb and looking to go to JJ just to get some fun workout in to help lose that last 25lb and get back to doing something similar to what I enjoyed for 14 years.

[@tiaandamstra5755]

Gjj?

[@BlairLSK]

I've been training for about 6 months and decided to work on my cardio to stop the gassing out during rolls. There's no point holding off from starting. Your progress might not be thatrapid but you will be learning something. So long as you have a good group at the club who know that you're making an effort to improve your fitness, you should be well received. BJJ is definitely something you will want to get in shape for.

[@pascal0868]

Inspiring video. I wanted to do bjj since 2014. Worries about fitness worried about being obese. I watched all the videos to fire me up. I went to a trial class. Came home and puked my guts. Two years later, last week, after managing my diabetes and diet I lost 20 pounds including doing some exercise I went for another trial. Went. Came home. Puked my guts. I’m in my 50’s so when I puke I’m done for two days! Anyway reading the comments from guys like Nate and your video I’m going back. Not for macho reasons but after the bjj class, after throwing up, I was going over the movements in my head including at work. This video also hit it on the head, my greatest fear was looking like a failure. When you’ve spent your whole life going to universities getting two degrees supporting a family running million dollar projects only to suck on the mat and watching 14 year old beat the snot it’s humbling. My epiphany if I can be dramatic is that I got where I am blessed to be in life by putting my self through all kinds of challenges and hardships. I’m an expert in being uncomfortable! So why should BJJ be any different. Thanks chewy! I do so hate throwing up, especially in parking lots.

[@jasongil7199]

Lol..yup I'm 40 and that was my first day at bjj..lol

[@randar3]

great video man. I spent months saying I wouldn't go to my first class until I was in better shape. But I struggled to lose weight so I just turned up. Best decision I ever made.

[@_ZeroQueen_]

Im years late on this one but thanks for this. I needed the reminder. Im 36 and 290 pounds in my first 2 weeks of classes. I am the white belt who gasses out and has to sit out during warm ups. My Prof says that my worst day on the mat is better than no day on the mat and that I will get better. I was worried about my age and weight and me being very out of shape but he says the best way to fix it all is to train BJJ. I thought about quitting today but Im glad I didn't.

[@ElysianResearch]

inspirational and true as always!

[@phantiasmic]

Cardio is very relative to the activity you are doing. Because you use different muscles and they all have their own requirements for blood flow and oxygen. I’m starting soon but it’s not due to being in or out of shape. (A friend told me can’t really get in bjj shape unless you do bjj lol) and it makes sense. Love your videos. I already know I’ve waited way too long but starting is starting. Thanks for your videos!!

[@WittedSword]

Been training for about 2 years now, watched this video about 2 week before I started and it defiantly saved me a lot of time I would have wasted thinking about doing it instead of doing it, so I came back to say thanks

[@Pathological_Flyer]

I needed to hear this, thank you.

[@AdrianBlackburnDesteni]

thanks man, that really helped. surprisingly impressed, upvoted.

[@zacharygolden7077]

thanks for these videos they have helped me get over my anxiety to go to a gym

[@janathangalindo8691]

Such a genuine dude thanks man I really thought that I was too big to start bjj this really relieves me

[@jamesthera]

Buying a new gi made me feel so bad about my build, but places exist!. Gorillagear.ca

[@jeremycaldwell2953]

Good to hear. Been taking classes three times a week for the past month. Last night was my first roll. I was so exhausted I couldn't defend myself anymore. You can't simulate the breathing management and the pressure put on your body by rolling from just drills. I didn't think I was that bad out of shape. I was wrong. Next time won't be as bad.

[@OhAnthony]

Watching this video as I am that guy who schedules my first BJJ class and drives to the gym only to drive right by. Trying to get over these anxieties. But I will make it in! Love these vids.

[@kinski9199]

I needed to see this video! Thank you so much for your wise words! One thing I'm going to do is wait for my head cold to pass and then go to my first class!

[@linzikarenable]

I can resonate so much! For 10 years I was a human punching bag! Me 5’2 - 120lbs him 6’1 and 200 lbs like a solid wall of drunken determination!! You guys really need to resonate with real women! It’s not feminism trying your spaces but women learning a hard lesson! Yep those butch lesbians / alpha females will try it .., trying to be a man … BUT it will never work!!! The heart of jujitsu is always knowledge over power and using resistance and their energy against them!! Mind set is everything in the game not mussels! It’s about discipline of using their energy against them, letting go of outcome and being true to yourself! Being an observer rather than a unthinking giver in the moment! When you get rid of determination outcome things flow to you! When you fight a hold your resistance is giving them energy you can’t afford to loose! In a match let go! Don’t resist ! They will have to change tactics for points etc … in real life as a woman… resistance is key to get out of any guard in a real life situation! Faking a tap out for women is sooooo Important, Also if you held down in the hit zone … moving against your instincts is important… grab you’re whole body and keep no distance! Jujitsu is all about self defence at the end of the day! The honest conviction that you believe in yourself, use their energy against them! Jujitsu isn’t about body it’s about knowing! For 5 years in a drunkenness state I was able to put him out with the leg triangle without understanding it in jujitsu! It was a night I refused to be raped! Please don’t shit on women joining and invading your manly space! I’m in training so I will never go this again.. dudes don’t you want this for your daughter or other half?? We need to be realistic on why women join!!!

[@Nocturnous]

Great video. You work so many different muscle groups, it's impossible to really isolate / better target them for BJJ than just showing up and getting your butt kicked.

[@adamstephens4148]

I love these videos man

[@benjaminseward6213]

Best advice I’ve seen for starting Jitz

[@lukemcmahon3466]

Just finish my first class and I feel great. had super anxiety before hand as im super out of shape and this video helped me greatly. wasn't as gassed as I thought I'd be . Many Thanks

[@cycling_broooon]

agree 100% and when you get into the gym and feel the support of your training partners, you'll be hooked. I'm less than a year in and I can't now imagine my life without this in it. take the plunge!

[@rcoles82]

Great video!

[@kitericks4850]

First off thanks for all the helpful videos. You have been a huge help. To the question I come from a Strength and Conditioning back ground. Olympic lifts, long runs, rucking, etc. I thought I was in pretty good shape but BJJ is a different world. I just started my BJJ journey 2 months ago and yes it is hard. But everyone is very accommodating to when I am getting winded and need to take a break. It sometimes makes me feel like I have needed to learn to breath all over again. My point in saying that is I am not sure you can train or even be in fantastic shape and not get gased while training. It looks as though being physically ready come with just putting in time on the mat and rolling. Do not let the physical side or being in shape be the reason you never go. Take a deep breath and commit, it is totally worth it and a lot of fun. Positive mental attitude makes most unpleasant thing do able.

[@MisterAppendix]

What about injuries? There's always a possibility of injury. Fit or not. But even moreso when your muscles, joints and ligaments are weak. Former fit Marine of 8 years. Now 42 years old. I haven't done any physical activity for 12 years now. Mental health has kept me on the couch. I finally got up and out a week ago, and went to a local BJJ gym. 1-1/2 hours in, and I separated my ribs doing some light rolling. Can't even roll in bed without excruciating pain. Now I won't be back for awhile. I should've followed my gut and spent a month or so doing light calisthenics, stretching, and cardio. Love what you do here. Your vids were an encouragement for me to get up and moving again.

[@lyndsieannette957]

Thanks for making this. I start BJJ a few weeks ago and I have trouble making it through the warm up myself. But I told myself I would just keep going back until I get it.

[@justinbruen2186]

I am a second degree black belt who competes in Taekwon-Do and I am literally in the gym 7 days a week.. I can say first hand as an instructor of Taekwon-Do and a student of jiujitsu that you can not be physically prepared for jiujitsu unless you are practicing jiujitsu and even then it takes time for the body to adjust

[@SteveOG]

Nailed it!!! Just jump in. I started jiujitsu after getting out of shape after playing football and went form 265 to 205 in 6 months.

[@christywalker3164]

Well, 39 and completely out of shape. Started my first class a few weeks ago and thought I was gonna die. I had so much fun though and I’m hooked.

[@swedsteve93]

Yeaaaa I need to get back into this. I moved n never really looked for another gym. cool video, reminds me of warming up n gassing out haa. No matter how tired I was after I always felt good in a way.

[@kawgrath1876]

I just thought about starting jiu jitsu, I always struggle staying motivated at the gym, but I’m a competitive person and I like playing pick up sports and exerting myself there. It’s just not frequent enough to get in good shape from that alone. This sounds like a fun way of doing regular scheduled exercise, I’m excited to start!

[@teamnorth1184]

Hey bro, I just found your channel and I love it. Looking to get into it, especially now being a new father, it would be awesome if my daughter got into it when she gets of age. Keep doing what you're doing, bro. 🤙🏾🤙🏾

[@adonisgroup3242]

Very well said! Jiu jitsu is very sport specific. If you want to be a great swimmer you can’t go practicing running (other than the lung aspect) to become a great swimmer. The only way you get in jiu jitsu shape or most other sports is by showing up and practicing those sports. People shouldn’t be afraid of getting tapped out either. It’s like getting punched in the face. Once it happens you realize it really isn’t that bad.

[@johnjames7966]

I started in pretty good shape. I ran and lifted weights regularly. I was about 175. After a few months, I held 165 and my core was tight. I signed up for a tournament and have been training and dieting hard and I'm down to 157 and the abs are shredded. I can roll 6 or 7 times in a row and feel great. Just do it.

[@ambercrombie789]

Extremely encouraging!!

[@theenduropest]

Honestly, this Vid put things into perspective for me, Thanks for putting it out there, I am going to give it a shot !

[@windcatcher331]

Chewy, That was great advice. JUST GO! I did and my only regret is I didn't start years ago. Not only am I able to handle it, emphysema and all, it is a benefit to my health and life as a whole. I am down 40 lbs from my peak weight and feel awesome! Thank you for the inspiration!

[@windcatcher331]

Down 82 lbs from my peak weight and still in Jiu Jitsu. From 250 to 168

[@jrgen9420]

Started losing weight from 330 lbs to around 280 lbs since december 2016. I has been scared to train at the BJJ facilities because of gassing out and being out of shape. I rewarded myself a membership at the local BJJ gym when I hit the 280 lbs mark May 2019. Headed down there and met awesome people, I started training twice a week, so I didn't get too sore(still got sore). Now I have trained there since May and I love it. Training up to five times a week! After I started training I have lost around 10 lbs. Want to say too everyone that wanna try it, just do it! It hurts, and you will get sore. But it's worth it. You will get tapped out atleast 50 times a training, but its still worth it. the tapping is getting less and less! And you will grow as person everyday! Cheers from Norway

[@MrRandyWat5on]

Just had my first class today. I'm 39, haven't done anything athletic in 15 years and as out of shape as they come. My whole body hurts, my fingers hurt from gripping, my ankles hurt from improper technique and my neck looks like a snake tried to make me his bitch. This is the best I've felt in years!!! I can't wait for the next class!!

[@ginosurock]

thanks man this is so reliving

[@Ice_773.]

This video really answered the questions that I had a year ago I was training in Mui Thai and kick boxing for a year and a half and I was in excellent shape I’ve always wanted to try bjj but due to the pandemic and everything shutting down I couldn’t train and I never got the chance to try bjj I’ve pick up 30 pounds since then and I’m way out of shape compared to what I once was I just started back getting into my muay thai and kick boxing training about a month ago and I was nervous about starting bjj but after watching this video I’m just going to go for it I start my first class Monday

[@gregstokes7117]

I feel like this was specifically for me. Had one class which I was out of breath, and not able to even do some of the line drills .........I immediately thought "I might want to train hard for 6 months FIRST, then come back to BJJ". I know being new is gonna mean leaving ego at door and just sucking it up; that this is part of the process and doing totally new, weird, hard exercises and moves is going to kick my ass. I will just push thru it, drop the extra 20 lbs of body fat while learning new skills........... As always, love your videos. Very helpful and easy to follow. Oss !

[@boliussa]

+Greg dude, you can build cardio in weeks not months!!

[@Papamax45]

Thankyou , I came to this video because i was really nervous about starting because of being out of shape asthmatic and even light exercise makes me feel queasy, thankyou for helping give me that confidence that its okay to fail as long as i keep trying

[@dynabungie]

so much truth in this video, i started jujitsu about a year ago .. i was 300lbs and totally got my ass kicked but i caught the bug, fast forward to now i am at 256 and my body has recomped and i feel amazing i wish had started years ago