The BJJ Lifestyle

I just got back the blood results from my physical and got a clean bill of health. I believe that training jiu jitsu with my family is one of the main reasons my Doctor calls me a boring patient. I was a little concerned going into the physical, I have gained about 10 pounds since last year and my eating habits suck. I will eat anything, pizza, burgers, fries, chips, subs. When I cut back on diet coke a few months ago my weight instantly shot up. Surprisingly, my cholesterol levels are better than last years physical. A few years ago the doctor said that my HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol) was too low. When I started training BJJ my levels increased and I was normal. This year they are even better. I can't contribute the good physical to genetics, my Dad had a heart attack when he was just a few years older than me. I average 3 classes a week and the only outside activity other than BJJ is a short weight lifting workout on Sundays. No drinking, no smoking and no drugs also helps. I rarely even take a Tylenol. Jen gets mad at me when I refuse to take it even thought I am complaining of aches and pains from rolling. This year I intend to get the diet in check and add some supplementary training and stretching. At 44 I am proud to be able to roll with guys 20 years younger than me and be able to hold my own, but I am most thankful that I am healthy. I believe I owe that to Jiu Jitsu and our coach Marcelo.

Posted by Tom