January 2021 is suddenly upon us, so now’s the time to start something new and why not learn boxing, Muay Thai or Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. They’re three great ways to burn off the Christmas calories whilst always challenging you to come back for more.
Think of it this way. It’s a new year. And make it a fresh start too! We all know that exercise ticks a host of boxes — it’s a super way to get healthier, look good and help us feel better about ourselves. Of course, any movement is better than none but for mine the movements that work best are the ones that challenge the thought processes too. Work the body and engage the mind. Cue boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. So, whether you’re learning a new boxing combination, executing the latest Muay Thai elbow-and-kick move or undertaking a new way to escape side control in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, your thinking and moving and up-skilling your way to improving your health.
Boxing
When you break it down, boxing is much more than throwing crazy-wild punches. Sure, there’s boxercise where you can punch randomly to your music of choice. But if you really wish to benefit from the beauty of boxing, it pays dividends to invest that little extra time to learn how to punch and defend correctly. You’ll quickly discover that the art of pugilism is much more than thuggery and haymakers. Footwork and finesse come to mind. It’s timing, balance and co-ordination. Knowing how to breathe, feign a punch, counter strike etc The deeper you dig, the more you discover. Boxing is a science that will forever push you to execute that dazzling footwork, perfect punch or elusive head movement.
Muay Thai
Brutal is often used to describe this martial art born in Thailand. Taxing on the lungs when you’re trainer is demanding another kick, knee, punch or elbow. Brutal on the poor soul on the receiving end of a elbow or shin strike. And brutal on the fighters game enough to step inside the ring. Muay Thai is unforgivingly hard core. And that’s why you’ll love it. You’re resilience will be tested every time.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Half-guard. Top lock. Figure four. North-South choke. And so it goes. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu really has its own language. Sure it can be a little confusing in the early stages but who doesn’t love a move called the Executioner or Crucifix? Dauntingly, the moves are many. It could take a lifetime to master them all. If indeed that’s possible at all. And that makes it incredibly magnetic. It’s a continuously growing mountain that’s impossible to climb. You will be forever challenged with new moves and variations of existing moves. Darce choke. Snap armbar. Anaconda roll. Flower sweep. Irresistible!
Conclusion
Fight training has many benefits and yet it isn’t for everyone. It can be incredibly hard work — mentally and physically. So much to learn. Perspiration aplenty. But the rewards are many. You’ll become a stronger, fitter and more balanced person — and they’re wonderful reasons alone to begin to learn combat skills in 2021.
Yours in learning Boxing, Muay Thai and BJJ,
Dane