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#312 | The REAL Reason This Dad Started Training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu In Iowa - Parenting, Marriage & Mental Health Support For Dads
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In this episode, I'll reveal the real reason my guest started training Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Iowa.
Find out how this martial art can truly change your life for the better!
🎥 In this BJJ podcast episode, I'm joined by Brett, a dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and fellow dad over 40, from Iowa, USA.
We discuss why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best martial arts for men in their 40s and beyond, especially for dads seeking fitness, mental health, and community.
Brett shares his inspiring journey—training BJJ for several years, taking a long break due to life and injuries, and then passionately returning to the mats.
If you're a dad over 40 thinking about starting BJJ or returning to it after a break, this episode offers valuable insights into why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is so addictive and beneficial.
We discuss how BJJ boosts mental toughness, ego management, and physical longevity.
You'll learn why BJJ is called "human chess," offering mental challenges and strategic thinking similar to golf, and how training partners play a crucial role in your journey.
We also touch on why BJJ is ideal for older men: patience, a supportive community, and the endless puzzle-like challenge that keeps it fresh and exciting.
Brett shares honest thoughts on surviving tough rolls, setting realistic goals, and balancing training with family life.
Whether you're a white belt or seasoned brown belt, this episode highlights how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can dramatically improve your mental health, physical health, and overall quality of life—no matter your age.
🔑 Key Topics Covered:
Benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for men over 40
Managing ego and expectations on the mats
Returning to BJJ after a long break
Why BJJ is perfect for dads and older beginners
The importance of choosing the right training partners
Mental health benefits and overcoming challenges through BJJ
BJJ vs. other martial arts (Karate, Taekwondo, Boxing)
Practical self-defense skills learned through Jiu-Jitsu
👉 Who Should Watch This?
Dads and older men starting BJJ
Experienced practitioners returning after a layoff
Anyone seeking inspiration for lifelong fitness and mental resilience through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
🥋 Join the community of dads transforming their lives through BJJ. Like, subscribe, and leave a comment sharing your own BJJ journey!
#BJJOver40 #BrazilianJiuJitsu #BJJforDads #MartialArtsForOlderMen #BJJCommunity #JiuJitsuMentalHealth #BJJPodcast #BJJLifestyle #DadLifeBJJ #BJJJourney
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Hello, I'm James & not long ago, I was a very anxious and somewhat overwhelmed husband & dad.
After about a decade of setbacks & enough coffee to sink a ship, I’m a much happier dad.
As previously mentioned, I want to try & help other dads be the best they can without losing their mental health.
Mental health battles are something I am all too familiar with.
In 2010, my GP suggested I do a 12-week CBT course with the NHS. During this course, I was diagnosed as having Pure OCD, which explained a lot.
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Dear "close dad mate"
I've just started listening to a podcast on apple podcasts for dads, which I think you might like.
It covers dad friendly topics like men's mental health, parenting, marriage, and the importance of mental health awareness and emotional intelligence for improving men's mental health.
The episodes are every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. They're not too long, have the occasional dad joke, one liner and parody song. The host struggles with his own mental health so seems keen to want to helps others in a similar position.
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