BJJ and Weight

[Alex C]

So, I've been on a journey of weight loss. Over the last year, I've managed to lose over 120lbs with exercise, diet, and determination. I've been going to a kickboxing gym recently but they dont focus on techniques but more so the cardio aspect of the motions and warm ups.

I've been listening to the Jocko podcast for awhile now, and have always thought about getting into BJJ.

I've been hesitant because even though I've lost 120lbs, I'm still a bigger guy at 230lbs.

Will this extra weight and some extra skin effect my learning on the mats? Part of wonders if this question isn't just a mental roadblock because in all honesty, I'd be a little nervous to start.

[mynewunit]

Hey Alex.
To some extent, not being built like Tim Kennedy is a disadvantage. But it is the same disadvantage that we all have. My local gym has a few guy that are much bigger than 230. Depending on the gym, their is a fair mix of exercise (Warm-up) technique (show and drill) and then live rolling (sparing). It will take some work to get to the point you can handle a class. We call this person a White belt. The classes will have many white belts. BJJ is made to give advantages to smaller people. Extra mass, skin, and whatever is as much an advantage as it is a disadvantage. Go take a class. Most gyms will let you sit in for a class or a week of classes before making you sign a contract or pay more than $20.

Congrats on the weight loss. Keep it up. Beginning BJJ should help you continue that journey.