Tine Scheldeman

Why Women Should Start Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: My Journey and Why I Believe in It

I started Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) as a way to relieve stress while I was a young student. At that time, BJJ classes were almost all men, and my first few years were a real struggle. But I stuck with it, and it was all worth it. I was able to compete at a decent level, though I had to travel a lot to reach the level I wanted. Now, I'm getting to the point where I feel too old to compete—at least at the intensity I used to—but I know I can help young women reach the level they want. I feel like my purpose now is to help others with my skills and experience, especially because BJJ is such a beautiful art for women. I want to be there for those who need me.

Here's why I believe women should start training BJJ:

1. **Empowerment and Confidence**

BJJ empowers women by showing that technique can overcome size and strength. This realization builds incredible confidence, which spills over into all areas of life, making women feel more secure and self-assured.

2. **Practical Self-Defense**

BJJ teaches effective self-defense skills, especially in situations where size and strength matter. Its focus on ground fighting makes it incredibly useful because many real-world confrontations end up on the ground. Learning BJJ means gaining the tools to protect yourself effectively.

3. **Physical Fitness**

BJJ provides a full-body workout, improving strength, flexibility, and endurance. It's an engaging alternative to traditional fitness routines, helping women stay in shape while learning valuable skills. I know from personal experience how much it improves physical health and stamina.

4. **Mental Resilience**

Training in BJJ builds mental toughness. It teaches you to stay calm under pressure and develop problem-solving abilities. These skills are invaluable, both on the mats and in everyday life. Over the years, I've found that this mental strength is one of the most important lessons BJJ has taught me.

5. **Supportive Community**

The BJJ community is welcoming and supportive, offering a sense of camaraderie and belonging. As someone who struggled with being one of the few women in the gym at first, I understand how important it is to have a supportive environment to grow. Now, I see more women joining the sport, and it's heartwarming to see them finding a place in this community.

6. **Breaking Stereotypes**

By training in BJJ, women challenge traditional gender roles and demonstrate that they can be both strong and skilled in martial arts. This contributes to a broader shift in societal perceptions and encourages more women to step outside of conventional expectations.

7. **Stress Relief**

The intense physical activity of BJJ helps relieve stress, improve mood, and promote mental well-being. When I started, it was my main way to unwind and stay balanced, and I still believe it's one of the best stress relievers out there.

Conclusion

BJJ is a transformative practice for women, offering a unique blend of physical fitness, self-defense, and personal empowerment. Whether your goal is to gain confidence, learn self-defense, or simply get in shape, BJJ provides valuable tools and a supportive community to help you thrive. I'm passionate about helping women start their BJJ journey because I know firsthand how impactful it can be. If you're thinking about trying it, I'm here to help you get started.