Training Jiu Jitsu and getting my black belt in my 40s felt like a big deal—because it is. As an older grappler who started BJJ at 35 (and with a shiny new metal hip to boot), I’ve picked up some survival tips for rolling with people who have faster metabolisms, better knees, and fewer gray hairs. Here are my top five:
1. It’s Never Too Late to Start
I started at 35 after a hip replacement. If I can do it, so can you. Seriously, Jiu Jitsu has a path everybody—whether you’re a lean, athletic BJJ machine or someone who considers standing up too quickly a cardio workout. It may not be easy but the mats don’t judge, and you can find a way.
2. Patience is Your Best Training Partner
Young grapplers are like caffeinated toddlers: full of energy and zero chill. They’ll progress faster, and that’s fine. You, on the other hand, will be the wise tortoise in this race. Slow and steady might not always win, but it’ll definitely avoid unnecessary ACL reconstructive surgery and keep you rolling into middle (and even old) age.
3. Ego is a Luxury You Can’t Afford
Jiu Jitsu has no egos—except for the many that do. But as an older grappler, you don’t have the luxury of pretending your body’s made of rubber bands. Tap early, tap often, and don’t die on a hill called “I’m pretty sure I can escape this heelhook…..pop!” Most of my injuries came from not tapping fast enough. Now I tap so quickly, my training partners barely have time to lock things in. Call it proactive survival, or the tappi tappa technique.
4. Stop Comparing Yourself to 20-Year-Old Monsters
Those 20-something college wrestlers who train Jiu Jitsu twice a day, every day? Yeah, they’re terrifying. But comparing yourself to them is like comparing a minivan to a Formula 1 car. You’re built for different purposes. Focus on your goals: improving your technique, staying healthy, and maybe being a “problem” for those young bucks once in a while. (Also, you’re probably way better at paying bills, managing a full-time corporate career, two kids, and a mortgage so there’s that.)
5. Give Yourself Some Credit
You’re in a room full of young killers—and you’re holding your own! Sure, your back reminds you daily that you’re not 25 anymore and when it will start raining, but could your friends who don’t train Jiu Jitsu survive a single round with that hyper-aggressive BJJ blue belt? Doubtful. You’re part of the 0.0001% of people who not only train Jiu Jitsu but stuck around long enough, and maybe, to earn a black belt. You’re basically a mythical creature. Own it.
Summary
Jiu Jitsu at 44 isn’t easy, but it’s one heck of a ride. Start late, stay patient, leave the ego at the door, focus on your journey, and remember—you’re a unicorn. Even if your lower back feels like a donkey some days.
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