Why I Started Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — And What It Taught Me About Ageing

I started Brazilian jiu-jitsu not to be brave. I started because I was scared of becoming fragile. It was a fear that crept in quietly, as I noticed the subtle signs of ageing. As an aesthetic doctor, I have spent decades helping others combat the external signs of ageing, but internally, I realised, I was waging my own battle against time.

Why Muscle Matters More Than Most People Think

The decision to start Brazilian jiu-jitsu came after reading about the alarming rates of sarcopenia, a condition characterised by loss of muscle mass and strength, which impacts over 10% of adults over 60 (Cruz-Jentoft et al., 2019). This decline isn’t just cosmetic; it affects our ability to perform everyday tasks and increases the risk of falls and fractures. In addition, VO2 max, a measure of cardiovascular fitness, declines significantly with age, further contributing to frailty. This wasn’t just a fitness journey; it was a necessary step to safeguard my health and longevity.

I also understood the importance of bone density in this equation. As women age, bone density can decline at an alarming rate, leading to conditions like osteoporosis. Through jiu-jitsu, I found a way to not only maintain but potentially improve my bone health, due to the weight-bearing nature of the sport.

At SW1 Clinic, where I often advise patients on the importance of maintaining skin health and collagen stimulation, I found a parallel in my personal journey. Just as our skin can regenerate, our body is capable of rebuilding itself, no matter our age.

Discovering New Limits

When I first stepped onto the mat, I was apprehensive. I expected discomfort, but I discovered something profound: discomfort and growth are often the same thing. My body adapted in ways I hadn’t anticipated, and with each session, I felt stronger and more capable.

A colleague of mine, let’s call him W, a very sensible man, was sceptical about my new endeavour. “You’ll last two weeks,” he said with a chuckle. But as weeks turned into months, he began to ask about my training schedule, intrigued by my newfound vitality. It’s funny how initial scepticism can transform into curiosity and even admiration.

The lessons on the mat extended beyond physical fitness. I learned humility, patience, and the value of being a beginner again. In the clinic, I’m in a position of authority, guiding patients through transformative procedures. But on the mat, I was the student, continuously learning and evolving.

The Science of Longevity in Grappling Sports

There’s compelling science behind the benefits of resistance and grappling sports like Brazilian jiu-jitsu. A study published in The Lancet found that grip strength is a predictor of mortality, even more so than blood pressure (Leong et al., 2015). This underscores the importance of maintaining muscular strength as we age.

Additionally, the sport helps in building mental resilience. The strategic aspects of jiu-jitsu stimulate cognitive functions, providing a mental workout that complements the physical exertion. This dual benefit is why I’ve come to value every session on the mat.

For those considering improving their physical health, integrating resistance training or grappling sports can be a vital component. At SW1 Clinic, we offer a variety of treatments that complement an active lifestyle, focusing on muscle health and body resilience.

Continuously Evolving

Admittedly, I am not the fittest person on the mat. There are younger, more agile practitioners who execute techniques with a grace that I aspire to. But my goal isn’t to compete with them. It’s to be better than I was last year. This mindset shift is perhaps the most rewarding lesson jiu-jitsu has taught me.

While I continue to guide my patients towards healthier, more radiant skin, I’ve found my own path to a healthier, more resilient body. Brazilian jiu-jitsu has become more than just a sport for me; it’s a testament to the body’s incredible ability to adapt and thrive, irrespective of age.

For those on a journey to improve their well-being, SW1 Clinic offers a range of services that support both aesthetic and internal health. Because ultimately, beauty and strength are built from the inside out.

---

Want to go deeper? I explore topics like this on my podcast and YouTube channel. Listen on Spotify or watch on YouTube @drlowchailing.

If you are considering any aesthetic or medical treatment, SW1 Clinic offers consultations with a team of experienced doctors. You can also start with the SW1 Quick Quiz to understand what might suit you.