Karting and BJJ: How Driving Helps Your Jiu Jitsu Game

I’ve been a motorsport fan my whole life, I enjoyed watching F1 on the weekends with my family and loved the thrill and risks involved. This same love took me to BJJ and the risks involved with that. Sitting here after a third place in a karting race I ponder how they are actually great complements for each other.

Quick Thinking:

When you're driving a kart, you have to make fast decisions, like when to turn, break or overtake. In jiu-jitsu, you also need to think on your feet. So, karting can help you become faster in deciding your next move on the mat.

Staying Sharp and Planning:

In karting, you need to focus and plan your every move, like finding the best line on a track. In jiu jitsu, you also need a game plan to win against your opponent. Driving karts helps you think better and plan smarter in your matches.

Bouncing Back from Mistakes:

Every kart driver has had their share of bumps and spins. These teach you to stay strong and try again. In jiu-jitsu, you might sometimes be on the losing end, but just like in karting, you learn to come back stronger.

Handling Pressure in Competitions:

Racing is intense. You learn to stay calm and not let nerves get the best of you. In jiu-jitsu tournaments, this calmness can be super helpful. Karting teaches you to keep your cool, even when the heat is on.

Getting Fit and Staying Active:

Driving a kart might look easy, but it's a workout! You need strength to control the kart and stamina to keep going. This fitness and grip strength boost can help you in jiu-jitsu, giving you the energy to keep rolling and moving.

Even though they seem completely different on paper, the different emphasis in physical and mental skill focus make them a great pairing. If you want to come and race me you can find me at TeamSport Acton