As with any form of physical activity, there are several precautions that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners should take to maintain an optimal level of safety.

Cold muscles are more prone to injury. So, beginners should value the importance of warming up. Activities such as stretching and walking in place for a few minutes can help keep muscles flexible, reduce any soreness which may occur after a workout and help to eliminate the risk of injury.

Without the proper fluids, the body will not maintain a safe temperature. Even mild dehydration can hinder athletic performance and even possibly place your health at risk. So, don’t forget to hydrate before and after conditioning with non-caffeinated fluids like water or sports drinks.

Conditioning is also imperative for students of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Fatigue can lead to poor technique and subsequent injury, so strength and endurance building is essential in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Aerobic exercise such as jogging, biking, swimming and jumping rope are all great cardiovascular activities to help improve your fitness level. Strength training is very beneficial too. 

Of course, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu itself is an excellent form of conditioning. If you are a student at the Mission Jiu-Jitsu Academy Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Mission Viejo Academy, you needn’t give it another thought, as conditioning is an integral part of the program – which was formulated by award-winning athletes.

It is also recommended to get a physical examination by your doctor and submit your family health history to that doctor prior to participating in this sport, or any physical activity, for that matter. That way, you can be certain that your cardiovascular, neurological and musculoskeletal systems are all good to go before you begin training. This may occur a little further along, but it warrants mentioning – If you are considering cutting weight to qualify for a specific competition weight class, you should also always check with your doctor or a trained dietician for healthy ways to safely drop weight.

Body awareness is also a vital part of keeping safe, as awkward positioning of body parts, such as inverting or everting your feet, can result in a twisted ankle or overextending an extremity can lead to injured facia or a strain or pulled muscle. Consequently, all practitioners want to practice the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with proper body alignment and in a sure-footed manner. Beginners are sometimes a bit less body aware, so this should be a major focus for them.

Learning and practicing the art of protecting yourself during a fall is important to learn early on to avoid any injuries. Practicing new techniques at a reduced speed before performing them quickly can also help keep Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners safe.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners also need to fully understand the potential dangers of performing submission holds incorrectly. Beginners should learn which parts of the body are vulnerable to injury with each move. For instance, a choke hold can cause injury to the throat and neck and a heel hook could result in an ankle, knee, leg or foot injury. You should know how much force may result in injury and note the experience of your sparring partner, as those who are less experienced may be less apt to know or indicate when they might be in danger. Additionally, for your own safety, it is important to remain aware of your surroundings to avoid collisions and be able to recognize when you should tap out.

Proper safety equipment and a safe environment both also play crucial roles in helping Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners to avoid injury. For instance, floors should not be slippery and sparring should take place on well-padded mats.

If you are a beginner, having a knowledgeable athlete who is practiced in the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu spot you during your sessions is also highly recommended, particularly when challenging moves are being learned or performed. So, one of the most important things Brazilian Jiu Jitsu beginners can do to remain safe is to learn under the expert oversight of practiced Brazilian Jiu Jitsu professionals, such as the elite trainers who can be found at Mission Jiu-Jitsu Academy Mission Viejo Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy at 26861 Trabuco Road, Suite H, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. 

Although in almost every case it is not necessary, we all need to be prepared for worst-case scenarios. Coaches, trainers and other staff members on hand should be able to administer first-aid for everything from minor cuts and bruises, to strains and sprains, as well as be ready to call 911 to request EMTs on the scene to address more serious situations, such as a concussion, dislocation, bone break or fracture.

If you ARE injured, your return to the sport should be conducted in a safe manner as too – cleared by a qualified medical professional with no swelling, full-range of motion and back to normal strength and conditioning levels.

Almost 100% of the time, Brazilian is a very safe sport, practiced without incident, especially in the presence of the skilled professionals at the Mission Jiu-Jitsu Academy Mission Viejo Academy. So don’t worry very much because your trainer will help ensure your safety at all times. That’s what we’re here for. That, and of course, to ensure that you fully enjoy and get the most out of your sessions!

To learn more or to sign up for this amazing martial art – which is an exceptional way to stay in shape, master the art of self-defense or to begin earning your belts and/or competing, just call 949-400-7108…and if you still are wondering if the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is for you, you are also welcome to try a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu session for free at the Mission Jiu-Jitsu Academy Mission Viejo Academy to see what you think firsthand!