How to Balance Jiu Jitsu Training with a Busy Schedule
Life’s hectic. Between work deadlines, family responsibilities, and trying to squeeze in a nap, finding time for Jiu-Jitsu can feel like a pipe dream. But as someone who’s been there—rushing from the office to the mats with a protein bar in hand—I can tell you it’s doable. Here’s how to make BJJ fit into your packed schedule, with practical tips to tackle the biggest hurdles.
Why Jiu Jitsu is Worth the Juggle
Before we dive in, let’s be real: Jiu Jitsu isn’t just a workout. It’s a stress-reliever, a confidence-builder, and a community that feels like a family. Missing a session because life got in the way can leave you feeling off. Sticking with it, even when you’re slammed, keeps you grounded. So, let’s figure out how to make it work.
Common Challenges and Actionable Solutions
Challenge 1: “I Don’t Have Time to Train”
Between 9-to-5 jobs, kids’ soccer practice, or endless errands, your day might feel like it’s scheduled to the minute.
Actionable Tips:
- Audit Your Week: Grab a coffee and spend 10 minutes mapping out your week. Look for small windows—maybe a lunch break, an early morning, or a post-work slot. Our gym offers classes at 6 AM, noon, and 6 PM to fit different schedules. Even one or two sessions a week keeps you progressing.
- Micro-Training at Home: No time to hit the gym? Drill solo at home. Practice hip escapes or shadow movements for 15 minutes on your living room floor. We post quick drill videos on our YouTube channel to help you out with this.
- Stack Habits: Tie Jiu Jitsu to an existing routine. For example, pack your gi right after dinner or train on days you already drop the kids at school near the gym. It’s easier to stick with when it’s part of your flow.
Challenge 2: “I’m Too Tired After a Long Day”
After meetings or chasing toddlers, the couch often wins over the mats.
Actionable Tips:
- Pre-Train Energy Boost: Eat a light snack 1-2 hours before training—think a banana or a handful of almonds. Sip water throughout the day to avoid crashing.
- Morning or Lunchtime Classes: If evenings leave you drained, try our early morning or midday sessions. A quick roll before work can energize your day. One of our members, Michael, swears by 6 AM classes to avoid burning out.
- Mindset Shift: Tell yourself you’re just showing up. Once you’re on the mats, the energy kicks in. If it doesn’t, it’s okay to drill lightly or watch a class—being there keeps the habit alive.
Challenge 3: “I Keep Missing Classes and Losing Momentum”
Inconsistent training can make you feel like you’re starting over every time.
Actionable Tips:
- Set a Realistic Goal: Aim for 1-2 classes per week instead of an unrealistic five. Track it with a simple app or a notebook. Our gym’s app lets you RSVP for classes, so you’re more likely to commit.
- Buddy Up: Train with a friend or connect with a gym regular. When Josh, a dad of two, started an accountability group text with another member, his attendance shot up.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Hit one class this week? That’s a victory. Got a stripe on your belt? Huge. Our coaches make a point to recognize your progress, no matter how busy you are.
Challenge 4: “My Family or Work Needs Me More”
Guilt about taking “me time” or work emergencies can derail your training.
Actionable Tips:
- Communicate Your Why: Explain to your family why Jiu Jitsu matters—it’s not just exercise, it’s your sanity. Invite them to a class or our family open mat day to see what it’s about. Kids love watching Mom or Dad roll!
- Involve the Family: If you’ve got kids, check out our youth Jiu Jitsu program. You can train while they do, saving time and sharing the experience. Our Saturday classes are a hit for this.
- Work Smarter: If work’s eating your time, negotiate boundaries—like leaving 30 minutes early twice a week for class.
A Sample Weekly Plan
Here’s how a busy professional or parent might fit BJJ into their week:
- Monday: 15-minute home drill (from our video library).
- Wednesday: 6 PM class after work (1 hour, including warm-up and rolls).
- Saturday: Family class (you train, kids train, everyone’s happy).
- Daily: 5-minute stretch before bed to stay loose.
Total commitment: ~3 hours/week, including travel. Adjust based on your life.
Keep It Real
Some weeks, you’ll only make one class. Others, you’ll feel like a Jiu Jitsu rockstar. That’s okay. The mats will always be there, and so will our crew, cheering you on. We get that life’s messy, which is why we’ve got flexible schedules, online resources, and a community that’s got your back.
Drop by for a free trial week or shoot us a message to chat about fitting Jiu Jitsu into your routine. You don’t need to overhaul your life—just start where you are.
See you on the mats,
