There is something unique about training in the art of Brazilian jiu-jitsu that can dramatically improve a person’s life. Even though it is a form of hand-to-hand combat that teaches how to control and submit an opponent with chokes, strangles and joint locks, it is also a lifestyle that embraces a learning, sharing and caring mindset.

As you advance through the years of your training, you experience an awakening of a consciousness. A beginning student tends to be hyper focused on what their own hands are doing at any given moment. The more advanced student’s awareness extends far beyond their own body. Ideally, this sensitivity to the world around you will affect your overall disposition allowing you to embrace the difficulties you face with an enhanced sense of calm, control, and empathy.

Fighting for Your Character distils some of the life lessons that can be gleaned from training in the art of jiu-jitsu. We have organized the materials around the belt colors that are earned as one advances through their training from white to blue to purple, to brown and then black. Each belt level presents its own physical, intellectual, and emotional challenges. You will examine those challenges through a process of self-guided reflections. We hope these thoughts will inspire you to embrace this inner journey and to adopt the mindset of a warrior fighting for your character.