How important is it to enter BJJ competitions? Late starter?

[Craig]

I started BJJ almost 2 years ago at 36yo. Learning a ton by drilling and intense rolling. How important is it to enter competitions? 

[mynewunit]

Competition always brings it up a level. Rolling in the same school and same classmates you get the same moves you are taught used on you. Competition take the intensity higher and you are against someone else teaching used against you. A lot of areas of life, you enter a competition to give yourself a deadline with some consequences. To not make yourself a fool, you will work harder knowing that it is for a short time and you can see a lot of improvement in that time.

If you don't need that external validation, I would try to get a sampling of other teachers. The gym my kids go to is a Gracie gym and they have a guest teacher about every other month. You don't have to be a member to attend those classes, they are an additional fee. Look for some of those. Maybe the various camps or getaways. Gracies have one in Mexico, Origin has one in Maine. I am sure there are tons of these.

If you have a day job, you might not want to compete if that means you could walk away with a shiner (black eye), few fingers splinted together, or a mild limp. It might not be worth it on the chance you get an opponent that is a little too intense and careless.

[Espi_80]

How difficult was it to start BJJ? I'm 37 and have always thought about starting. Plus listening to Jocko and Joe Rogan podcasts have inspired me to try it out. 

[mynewunit]

Pretty easy. Most classes are about half white belts. Find your local place and ask about trying it. The local gym my kids go to have you try it once or twice before you start paying for a membership. They will even give you a gi or rash guard to borrow. I am told that is pretty standard. Most classes start with a warm up. It is follow the leader. Then the instructor will teach a move or technique. You will practice a bunch of times. They might add a second level, like teach the counter to the move and practice a little more. Commonly at the end the have some half speed to live sparring.

[Rob F]

I am 52 and considering it. After working out for 2 years in a pretty intense fitness atmosphere, it feels like the only way to challenge myself is by something constructive, competitive, and useful like BJJ.

Let me know if I am completely crazy.....

[mynewunit]

52 is fine for starting.  There are a few recommendations.  Check this thread below for some clips and video's

Bjj Thread