Hi Steemit!
In this article, I will discuss about some of the benefits of practicing Jiu Jitsu. For it, I'm going to apply the Maslow's pyramid of needs (which is a major theory in the studying of psychological development of human behaviour) to my personal journey.
Before going to far, I would like to clarify what Jiu-Jitsu is. It's a martial art based on leverage and laws of physic. The comprehension of leverages and forces is essential to grow in this discipline. Although a majority of Jiu Jitsu athletes will learn Judo and Wrestling techniques (like throws or takedowns) in their carrer; ground control and submissions are the principal techniques teached in this discipline.Jiu Jitsu was first popularized by the Gracie's family who organised interdisciplines (Boxe v.s. Jiu Jitsu / Taekwondo v.s. Judo / etc.) combat to show the power of their art (UFC's creation).
Since a picture is worth a thousand words, here is a higlight of the 2017 ADCC tournement.
FloGrappling. (2017). 2017 ADCC World Championship Highlight. [on Youtube].
Now, the main purpose of this post is to connect the art of Jiu Jitsu with Maslow's theory.
Maslow's_hierarchy_of_needs.svg.png
Friedlander. David. (2014). Moving Up and Beyond Maslow’s Pyramid. [on LifeEdited]
This graphic expose the steps to filled to reach the self-actualisation.
It's important to know that, in Maslow's theory, each step have to be fulfilled to correctly pass to the next one. So how Jiu Jitsu can make someone climb the ladder of needs?
Physiological needs : Jiu Jitsu is not directly related to this step (give you foods or a roof), but it can definitely increase your physical abilities (cardiovascular power, strength, etc...).
Safety need : To my part, this is the main point of practicing Jiu Jitsu. Indeed, every class put emphasis on the best way to defend yourself against all oponent's type. In this optic, the pratice of Jiu Jitsu can, obviously, incrase the feeling of security. Being able to defend yourself gives confidence.
Love / belonging : Even if Jiu Jitsu is an individual sport, everyone needs a training partner to drill techniques and, at least, practice the sport. A strong friendship is created between those who are trainning together everyday. Even a connexion is establish between all-over-the-world's athetes due to the competitions and travels. Everybody are sharing their knowledge with others which is founding a strong community.
Esteem : Achieving challenges like belt testing and promotions help to reach a better self-confidence. Indeed,after some years, many athletes start to get promoted. That means that others noticed all the works and commitments that you make through to improve yourself in this dicipline. At this point, it's possible to see the self-esteem of many grow. Furthermore, those who are the most involved in the school, might get asked by the main instructor to teach class. Eventually, respect and affections will get back to you.
Self-actualisation : To be a good Jiu Jitsu athlete you need to learn the basics and accept the laws of physique, but at a certain point, it is possible to add your personal touch to the techniques and been creative just like in any other forms of art (which is one of the highest's caracteristic of Maslow's pyramid of needs). Moreover, Jiu Jitsu is a dynamic mathematical problem according to John Danaher (who is one of the most famous Jiu Jitsu teacher). That means that each time you solve a part of the problem, this one have already changes. Some people compare Jiu Jitsu to a chess game, but, this one, played at a very hight speed.
This reality about Jiu Jitsu makes it highly addictive and passionating. Furthermore, no one will ever reach a point where they can say they does'nt have any more to learn = infinite pleasure!!!
It's all about the journey and not about goals.
To conclude, here's a beautiful video on the influence of Jiu Jitsu on Caio terra's life.
To know more about the great story on Caio Terra's journey go on youtube and watch this video
Gameness Sports. (2014). Train for Life: Caio Terra's BJJ Journey. [on Youtube].
Thanks for reading :)
Sorry for my basic english.
See yah!