Turn on the news on any given night, and chances are you’ll hear a story about the obesity epidemic in this country.  Eating a healthy diet plays a major role in overcoming obesity, but physical activity is equally important in getting fit.  As a Martial Arts Professional, Rafael Ramos knows that taking up a martial arts practice can help in the battle with obesity.

Along with excess weight comes a heavy dose of low self-esteem. Jiu-Jitsu is a physical sport, where you will burn a lot of calories through floor work, grappling, and working on techniques.  What you will also get when practicing this martial art is a big dose of self-confidence.

Starting a new practice requires commitment and mental focus, just as losing weight does.  With a practice such as Jiu-Jitsu, a twice-weekly commitment can greatly improve your health and mental focus as you learn new techniques and move the body in unfamiliar ways. These new ways of moving the body will increase flexibility and strength, improving health along the way.

The courage developed when learning Jiu-Jitsu serves as a great backdrop to the weight loss journey.  Learning this new skill involves some discomfort as well as physical pain.  Overcoming the discomfort of new moves and the pain associated with being thrown to the ground fosters courage and an improved sense of self-worth.

Professor Rafael Jovet-Ramos has participated in Jiu-Jitsu across the globe, teaching students active and effortless exploration of this self-defense technique.