Swimming for Jiujitsu

Jiujitsu is a Brazilian martial art based heavily on traditional Japanese fighting forms. Similar in some ways to American wrestling, this sport involves use of full bodily force to subdue an opponent. Because it necessitates brute strength, jiujitsu practitioners often search for supplemental ways to improve their physical condition. Since swimming is both gentle and aerobically demanding, it is one of the best ways to further train a jiujitsu practitioner.

  1. Impact and Injury

    • Possibly the biggest benefit of swimming is that it is a low impact activity. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that swimming gives sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis better results than any other activity. This is because the water counteracts the effects of gravity. Thus, a martial artist who is worried about potentially injuring himself while exercising has much less to worry about with swimming then other exercises. During times when a practitioner is recovering from a jiujitsu injury, he can turn to swimming as a way to maintain strength with minimal risk of further injury.

    Heart Strengthening

    • Swimming is also effective at improving fitness as it is an aerobic activity. According to the New York Times writer Jane E. Brody, swimming more often corresponds with a more toned, less fatty body. Not only does this type of activity offer the perfect complement to martial artists, but martial arts is particularly helpful for swimmers, who must find an additional weight-bearing activity to maintain bone health. Experimenting with an increased pace and using different strokes can raise or lower the intensity of this workout.

    Breath Control

    • As with most martial arts, jiujitsu requires a contemplative control of breath. Swimming uniquely complements this aspect as it requires conscious monitoring of the breath. Becoming in tune with the flow of breath can easily translate from the pool to the mat, making this a particularly beneficial way of training.

    Risky Business

    • Any physical activity carries some inherent risks, but swimming is particularly risky because it involves breath retention and the possibility of death by drowning. Even a very fit practitioner of jiujitsu can drown, so be wary of potential hazards. Novice swimmers should stick to shallow waters with adequate supervision, and even advanced swimmers should never swim completely alone. Seek medical attention immediately if a person has inhaled a large amount of water, especially if she is not fully conscious. Being mindful of safety keeps swimming a healthy positive activity, rather than a dangerous one.