Sitting  the academy at East Coast United brazilian jiu jitsu,mma & yoga Bronx, I think about how lucky i am to  train Brazilian jiu jitsu. Those that have been in the bjj for any period of time know how life transforming that Brazilian jiu jitsu is. I realize that all of the greatest people ive met and know have come through martial arts. What i have come to realize, and most will if they just take the time to try it out for themselves, is Martial arts, in particular Brazilian jiu jitsu, seems to weed out cocky, egotistical people. I have found one of two things takes place with people  who attempt this art with large egos… Once they come in and try a class, the first move WE ALL LEARN is to  TAP!! There is a crossroads at this point especially if the person was athletic and or big. #1 their ego takes over and they never come back or #2 they now are conscious of how powerful this art can be, because 9 time out of 10 the person who tapped you is smaller than you. Growing up i heard common phrases like “Size doesnt matter” or “The bigger they are the harder they fall” but when i heard these i was taking striking arts  at the time and it didnt make sense to me because when i sparred the larger and older kids i would get romped!! It wasnt until later i watched the first UFC and witnessed a thin tall gentleman by the name of Royce Gracie battle against what appeared to be impossible odds. When UFC started there were not any weight classes nor did they wear gloves. To see this thin man enter the cage with  opponents up to 100lbs heavier seemed to be murder but not only did he win but he did so grappling ! That to me was astonishing! I quickly had to see and feel this art for myself so i sought out a brazilian jiu jitsu academy and tried my first class. What i felt and witnessed was amazing!! I was put with a light wieght kid probably around 130lbs who managed to tap me out 5 times in a 5-6 min period. I was the guy who immediately seen the power in this art and signed up that very day. So my message to the readers are  Brazilian jiu jitsu is not only exercise nor self defense but something much more. Its a lifestyle. If a person can manage to LEAVE THEIR EGO AT THE DOOR  that person will begin a life changing  journey that builds confidence, health,flexibility,weight loss and even a whole new family.To witness for yourself try one of our top notch academies near you!!Just click the link for your location...BRONX NY, QUEENS NY, WHITE PLAINS NY.