As people grow older, they begin to find ways to stay healthy and make use of their time. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that can provide numerous benefits for seniors. Here are 8 ways BJJ can be good for seniors:
1. Physical fitness: Exercise is especially important to the older age group. In order to maintain a healthy body, seniors should maintain strength and build muscle. BJJ is a physically demanding sport that can help seniors maintain and improve their fitness levels. It involves a lot of movement, stretching, and strength training that can help seniors maintain their flexibility, balance, and endurance.
2. Self-defense: BJJ is an effective form of self-defense that can help seniors protect themselves in case of an attack. It teaches techniques that use leverage and body positioning to subdue an opponent, making it an ideal martial art for seniors who may not have the strength or speed of younger opponents.
3. Mental stimulation: Growing older can be accompanied by experiencing slower reaction and some form of memory problems. Brazilian Jiu jitsu requires a lot of mental focus and problem-solving, which can help older adults to maintain mental function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
4. Socialization: As adults enter their retirements, their social circles tend to decrease over time. Because they are no longer working and interacting with co-workers, the social interactions naturally decrease. BJJ is a social activity that can help seniors meet new people and form friendships. People enrolled in martial arts classes share a common interest in the sport and this builds teamwork and makes a person feel connected with a group. This can be especially important for seniors who may be at risk of social isolation.
5. Stress relief: BJJ can be a great stress reliever, providing seniors with an outlet to release tension and anxiety.
6. Increased confidence: Brazilian Jiu jitsu not only gives an opportunity for older adults to be active, but BJJ can help seniors develop confidence in their ability to defend themselves, as well as in their physical and mental capabilities.
7. Improved sleep: The link between regular exercise and sleep quality has been proven by researchers globally. Johns Hopkins Institute has found that moderate exercise helps in improving the quality of slow wave sleep or deep sleep. Regular physical activity like BJJ can help seniors sleep better, reducing the risk of insomnia and other sleep disorders.
8. Increased bone density: BJJ involves weight-bearing exercise, which can help increase bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in seniors.
Brazilian Jiu jitsu for older adults should be something that you should consider to be an all-around activity. It does not only provide a chance to be active but BJJ also has mental benefits.
It is never too late to start training jiu-jitsu. If you are an older adult looking for something new and exciting, why not try out Brazilian Jiu jitsu and experience the benefits yourself. We have a free trial for new BJJ students who want to give it a go. Sign up and start training today at Global BJJ Naples.