Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has changed my life in ways I never expected — a transformative journey that started as a way to keep my kids active.
We had tried a variety of sports — swimming, baseball, soccer — but none seemed to stick. We decided to explore martial arts, but the schedules of different disciplines never quite fit. That’s when I remembered a fellow Brazilian friend recommending Easton.
The closest location was Easton Lowry, so we booked a trial session. My kids immediately enjoyed it, and I was pleasantly surprised that the classes incorporated Portuguese. Since my children were born in Brazil but aren’t fluent, I found this element particularly exciting.
With triplets, a family plan made the most sense, which meant I could also give it a try. Professor Junior, one of Easton Lowry’s owners, encouraged me to join in, and I decided to start with a women’s-only class led by Professor Amy. That first session left me feeling like I had run a marathon — I was sore in places I didn’t even know could be sore! But, despite the exhaustion, I was intrigued.
Over the next couple of months, I adjusted to the physicality, and what once felt awkward — grappling with another person in an aggressive manner —became more natural. I especially loved the mix of strength and cardio training. Although I hadn’t grown up an athlete, as an adult, lifting weights and running had become part of my routine. BJJ felt like the perfect complement.
Soon, the initial soreness faded, the bruises didn’t bother me anymore, and I found myself eagerly looking forward to class. The next hurdle? Training with men. I remember feeling nervous, wondering if my presence as a beginner and as a woman would be an inconvenience. Again, I was pleasantly surprised. The culture of Jiu Jitsu fosters respect and helpfulness. Everyone is constantly learning, no matter their experience level, and that camaraderie makes all the difference.
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Beyond my own progress, watching my kids advance has been incredibly rewarding, especially when they compete. My inner Brazilian mom takes over, and I can’t help but coach from the sidelines — sometimes even over the actual coach! Their dedication inspired me to take a leap myself, and within less than a year, I entered my first competition as a white belt.
Competing was nerve-wracking in a completely new way. I’m no stranger to high-pressure situations — I’ve spoken and performed in front of thousands, but stepping onto the mat with my family and professor watching felt different.
I once heard a Jiu Jitsu coach say, “Your biggest opponent is never on the other side of the mat; it’s in your own head.”
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That rang especially true for me. I didn’t win any matches, and while disappointment hit at first, I made myself watch the videos my husband recorded. And I felt proud. I had stepped onto that mat as a 38-year-old triplet mom, pushing myself once again. Winning would have been great, but the real victory was in showing up, in wanting to keep improving, and in wanting to go back.
That’s what Jiu Jitsu has taught me — it’s not about perfection. It’s about persistence: showing up, win or lose, and continuing to grow. What began as a way to bond with my kids and cheer from the sidelines has transformed my mindset, boosted my self-esteem, and strengthened my discipline in every area of life. And these lessons have changed my life in more ways than I ever imagined.
