Running and BJJ

Sohan · 11-20-2007, 03:35 PM

I have done lots of different cardio over the years, but my favorite is running. I mix up LSD with intervals and sprints, and this usually gives me sufficient endurance for grappling, not to mention I recover quicker between sparring bouts. I also do a couple mini strength and conditioning sessions (a la Ross Enamait) during the week to help boost my mat performance. Since I am a white belt and new to BJJ, the extra endurance has really helped my learning process, because I don't gas as quickly, so I can stay relaxed and focus on my technique. And at age 41, this is a big deal for me, as it's a little harder for me now than when I was younger in other martial arts.

My question is this. How many BJJ practitioners out there use running for their cardio conditioning? How have your knees held up? Do you use other forms of cardio besides mat work?

Thanks for your input!

Stay Puft · 11-20-2007, 04:59 PM

Running is always good, especially if you are mixing it up. I do some of the workouts from www.crossfit.com on my days off and these help a lot as well!

LordarshynBJJ · 11-20-2007, 05:05 PM

If you do run, it's good for you no matter what...

However, try to do 60/120 types of workouts...Explosion and recovery is what you really need to work.

I prefer to swim myself. It used my whole body, and it is more similar to jiu-jitsu.

Running will definitely help and I enjoy it too, but try swimming a bit, you'll find that it will help way more than running.

I'm not very good at it, but break dancing is GREAT cardio for jiujitsu. It sounds weird but it really is. I discovered this a few months ago. (Inspired by some warmups i saw JJ Machado do on Insider Training.)

Sohan · 11-20-2007, 05:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LordarshynBJJ

If you do run, it's good for you no matter what...

However, try to do 60/120 types of workouts...Explosion and recovery is what you really need to work.

I prefer to swim myself. It used my whole body, and it is more similar to jiu-jitsu.

Running will definitely help and I enjoy it too, but try swimming a bit, you'll find that it will help way more than running.

I'm not very good at it, but break dancing is GREAT cardio for jiujitsu. It sounds weird but it really is. I discovered this a few months ago. (Inspired by some warmups i saw JJ Machado do on Insider Training.)

Funny you mention swimming. I swam Masters for a local team a couple years ago and took a short break from martial arts training. When I came back, I was stunned at the improved flexibility and endurance I had. Unfortunately, swimming is not nearly as convenient as putting on my shoes and heading out the door.

And as far as breakdancing goes, I don't think that's as far-fetched as you might think. Some of the Brazilian guys here at Alliance practice Capoiera (which seems somewhat similar), and those guys are monsters on the mat--"Cobrinha" in particular.

Sherdog_Mutt · 11-20-2007, 05:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sohan

Funny you mention swimming. I swam Masters for a local team a couple years ago and took a short break from martial arts training. When I came back, I was stunned at the improved flexibility and endurance I had. Unfortunately, swimming is not nearly as convenient as putting on my shoes and heading out the door.

Personally, I swim to supplement my BJJ. It's helped my cardio and flexibility. Additionally, I've found that it's helpful for recovery from an intense training session.

GuardGame · 11-21-2007, 01:40 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sherdog_Mutt

Personally, I swim to supplement my BJJ. It's helped my cardio and flexibility. Additionally, I've found that it's helpful for recovery from an intense training session.

Kinda a similar story here..Me and GracieMMABarra went to the beach one morning before jiu jitsu, which started at 12 noon. We ran A LOT of sprints, did takedown drills in the sand, and after, swam a little bit in the ocean.

When I got out of the water I felt so good and felt really recovered and re-energized.

Then it was time for a 2 hour Jiu Jitsu session! I never felt so good training.

BUT, in preparation for the worlds I was running sprints 3 times a week and swimming laps in the pool once or twice a week. During my epic world wars on the tatame mats at worlds (3 total), I was never tired, and rolled as quick paced as I could. I felt really good.

But now, the tournaments that hold the most priority for me with gi (Pan Ams, Mundials, Nationals) are over so I am just going to practice 3 or 4 times a week.

Gona start running sprints and swimming again at the end of January.

But yea, SPRINTS AND SWIMMING!

anaconda · 11-21-2007, 02:31 AM

slightly OT question, how has swimming helped your flexibility? do you stretch after or was it a natural progression or what?

alex1708 · 11-21-2007, 06:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sohan

I mix up LSD with intervals and sprints, and this usually gives me sufficient endurance for grappling

Speed or Ecstacy usualy does the same too!

Ghost Dog · 11-21-2007, 07:40 AM

i do a 4 mile run anywhere between 3-6 days a week and train bjj at least 3. running is all i do for cardio, period. works well for me.

Cash Bill 52 · 11-21-2007, 09:45 AM

Swimming, running, biking, obstacle courses, and yoga are great. I enjoy hiking the best. There are many trails with steep inclines where I live. The fresh air makes a difference too. I think it helps me relax on the mat.

You asked about knee problems. I had knee problems. (meniscus surgery on one; badly sprained the other) The extra cardio has helped me. I'll be 41 in a couple of months as well. I don't run on concrete or pavement.

I have to force myself to rest. I definitely over trained in the past.