I don't train to be better than you. I train to be better than me.

I don't train to be better than you. I train to be better than me.

Friday, May 13, 2011

It's a family affair?

So my wife mentioned she would like to try out Jiu Jitsu after watching me roll in the tournament. This is a pretty big deal to me as I am excited to share BJJ with her. My wife's story has it's challenges. she was a college athlete (Track Team Captain) and is tall at 5'10. I actually think her frame is quite well suited for BJJ, but she will need to work hard to get herself into physical shape for the sport.

She is a cancer survivor- having had her thyroid removed 2 years ago due to an enormous tumor that had developed there. I am grateful that the cancer had not spread, but there were consequences including depression, and an irregular metabolism which promoted weight gain- also causing depression. Fortunately, these past few months she has fought her way out of that cycle, engaging in a diet program, and calorie monitoring as well as increased physical activity.

I made the call to Professor Larry to inquire about bringing Shannon in for the trial, and discovered that family membership was financially realistic. Soon Shannon was in her first class learning how to choke people. SHE LIKED IT!

in the following weeks our enthusiasm is shining through- for our 3rd anniversary She got a new BJJ Gi that she had mentioned she liked. We also got a 4x8 grappling mat for the house (will be great for practicing position) She has been to a few classes, and already hurt her shoulder a bit, but I feel reasonably confident that she is still enjoying it, and will continue for the long run.

So now we are a family of grapplers... Here's to it!

2 comments:

  1. So how is Shannon enjoying BJJ?? :)

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  2. She got her first stripe last week! I think she is liking it, although at times she feels patronized by some of the guys. The ones she knows train well with her, but some of the other guys go really easy and it frustrates her.

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