March 2012 was when I decided I needed to get off my ass & get active. I had a sedentary lifestyle, and it was catching up to me quick. Unfortunately, I had a little wake up call after visiting the doctor. Jogging wasn't going to do it for me. I wanted something that would not only force me to get in shape, but teach me something valuable & practical along the way. Enter -Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Browsing the internet, I discovered 10th Planet Chicago nearby, and decided to give Josh (the owner/instructor) a call. Right off the bat, Josh couldn't have been nicer - he told me all about the school, the sport of Jiu Jitsu, the NoGi aspect they specialize in at 10th Planet Chicago, and relieved any concerns I had about my lack of experience. Prior to this, I had ZERO Jiu Jitsu/grappling/wrestling experience. Really, I had zero sport experience at all. I was 25 & on the fast track to an unhealthy life. I had to change. I won't lie - I was nervous at first. But I took Josh's advice & came down to the school, and it was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've been attending classes as often as I can ever since. Josh is an EXCELLENT instructor who's clearly doing what he loves when he teaches. The school is filled with nothing but super friendly students of all ages who love to learn the art & sport of NoGi Jiu Jitsu, and help each other improve. No egos whatsoever (it's amazing, really).
And personally - at 27 years old, I'm in the best shape of my life, by far. I've dropped 20 healthy pounds, at least, and without a doubt I feel better physically than I ever have in my life. And every single class, I learn a little bit more about the amazing sport of Jiu Jitsu. Now I'm even thinking about starting to compete in some local tournaments - I couldn't have imagined this 2 years ago!
Jiu Jitsu can change your life! read more