225: How Do You Take Your Jiu-Jitsu Seriously if You Don't Compete?

Do you ever catch yourself downplaying how much you care about Jiu-Jitsu just because you don’t compete? If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re “serious enough” about your training as a non-competitor, this episode is for you. What does it mean to take your Jiu Jitsu seriously—even when chasing gold medals isn’t your focus? We dig into what purposeful training looks like for recreational practitioners, how to balance goal-setting with busy grown-up life, and why “serious” Jiu Jitsu is more about intention than intensity. This episode is about helping you create a meaningful, purpose-driven path in Jiu-Jitsu that fits your life. Chapter Highlights (00:00) Why Do So Many Hobbyists Downplay Their Jiu Jitsu Commitment? (01:28) Jiu-Jitsu Training with Purpose: How to Create Meaningful Goals Without Competing (03:35) Simple Ways to Add Intention and Focus to Your Rolling (04:50) Healthy Expectations: Finding Balance Between Fun and Progress in Jiu-Jitsu (05:51) Navigating Busy Seasons: How to Prioritize Jiu Jitsu When Life Gets Hectic (07:30) Can You Be a “Serious” Practitioner If You Don’t Compete? (08:31) How to Be Taken Seriously by Your Coaches and Teammates (Without Competing) (09:41) Size, Strength, and Technique: When Does It Really Matter? (12:47) Tips for Smaller Grapplers—Using Your Unique Attributes on the Mat (13:47) How To Support and Communicate With Training Partners (15:05) Boosting Confidence: What If Your Technique Doesn’t Work Against Bigger Opponents? (16:19) Managing Expectations—So You're Not Crying in the Car Post-Roll (17:32) On & Off the Mat Tips for Setting Realistic, Personalized Jiu Jitsu Goals We’d love to hear about your own experience—drop a comment or DM us on Instagram @beautyandthegipodcast and let’s keep this conversation rolling! If you love the podcast, share it with a friend! You can also leave us a 5-star rating in Spotify or Apple Podcasts . 🎧 Listen on Your Favorite App Spotify Apple Podcasts Audible Episodes.fm YouTube 🎯 New to the Podcast? Start Here Start Here Spotify Playlist Start Here on Our Website 🥋 Learn More About Roll Model Grappling Camp rollmodelswanted.com 📱 Connect with Jen & AJ on Social Media Instagram – @beautyandthegipodcast Jen: @brassybroadjen on Instagram | @brassybroadjen on TikTok AJ: @ajclingerman on Instagram | @roll_model on TikTok Roll Model Grappling: @rollmodelgrappling on Instagram 🎶 Production Recording, theme music, editing, and production by Jen at The Brassy Broadcasting Company ⚠️ Disclaimer The Beauty and the Gi podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. It is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or coaching advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for any condition.