Can Jiu Jitsu Help Adventure Athletes Cross-Train And Send It?

You likely have a friend that’s all about Crossfit. It’s an incredible sport, and the attention to fitness with this crowd is amazing. But, if you’re an outdoor athlete or pursuing something mountains in your life, the thing you’ve likely assumed is Crossfit is more or less the act of cross-training. It’s the way I see it. Let’s expand on this a bit… If Crossfit is cross-training, could there be a central focus in one’s athletic / adventurous life? If so, let’s say, this is the primary objective. For many of us that focus is an Alpine ascent / descent, climbing route, enduro race, cross country run, skimo or whatever outdoor sport you’re in to. Cross-training gets us closer to our physical goals, our adventure mindset and helps us shred. As I’ve continued with Jiu Jitsu (and a little Muay Thai), I’ve think I may have landed on a cross-training sport that, well, might turn in to more than just a side exercise (it’s that awesome)!

Now, what’s the point of this article? A list of the benefits, of course… Here goes:

1. Expanding your fear factor… Jiu Jitsu can be intimidating! You’re not fighting, but damn close. Many of the people you’ll roll with are trained MMA fighters or former college wrestlers. They are fit, skilled and passionate. You’re thin, built for endurance and used to a mountain bike between your legs, not a 200lb monster. It’s scary, and injuries do happen-be ready for fear. BUT, I’ve decided to run towards this as I’ve found my rock climbing is that much better. Rock climbing is also freaking scary with much bigger consequences than Jiu Jitsu (people die climbing). But, the focus I’ve gained is amazing; the willingness to embrace the fear.
2. Did I mention the fitness… It’s a whole different kind of full body fitness. And for climbers, I can’t say enough about Jiu Jitsu. The forearm, ab and back workout is just awesome. The closest Crossfit exercise would be a combination of clean / jerk / snatch / sprinting at the same time. Good luck with that.
3. The analytical process… I’m getting a little better with this one. If you are new to Jiu Jitsu, holy cow, get ready for mental gymnastics. Just like those new to climbing, or perhaps better, high-end bouldering, the smallest details matter! Every move is a counter to another move… I feel like a complete idiot sometimes, but it’s cool. To me, this is one of the most fascinating aspects of Jiu Jitsu. The moves are complicated, engaging and you’ll find that your body can twist that way.

Overall, go for it… If you’re ready to embrace bruises on your face, getting choked out A LOT and a lot of time with your face on a sweaty mat, Jiu Jitsu is an amazing martial art. However, like I mentioned at the beginning, you might find it will become your focus. Yeah, the rocks, snow and trails are incredible, but when you finally stick your first Omaplata — holy cow!