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Exercise and Jujutsu: The Ultimate Power Couple

Updated: Jul 10

Picture this: you’re in a dark alley, facing a shady character who’s clearly watched too many action movies. Your heart races and your palms are sweaty. But you’re ready—because you’ve been training at the Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, and you’ve got the stamina of a lion thanks to your exercise routine. This, my friends, is why exercise and jujutsu are the ultimate power couple of self-defense. They’re better together, and I’m here to tell you why. So, grab your water bottle, and let’s dive into this dynamic duo.


Exercise: The First Word in the 753 Code


Let’s start with the big picture. In the 753 Code for optimizing your body, Exercise is the first word. Why? Because it’s the foundation of turning your body into a lean, mean, self-defense machine. The 753 Code focuses on building a body that’s strong, agile, and ready for anything—whether it’s a jujutsu sparring session or just carrying all your groceries in one trip.


Exercise isn’t merely about looking good in a mirror (though that is a nice bonus). It’s about preparing your body to handle whatever life throws at you, from a rogue shopping cart to an actual attacker. Sensible exercise is essential. You’re not training to become the Hulk, smashing through walls and injuring yourself in the process. If you’re limping around with a pulled hamstring because you thought lifting a small car was a good idea, you’re definitely not ready to defend yourself.


Sensible exercise means building strength, endurance, and flexibility without pushing your body to the point of injury. After all, the only thing you should be breaking in self-defense is your opponent's balance—not your own bones.


Why Jujutsu and Exercise Are a Perfect Match


Putting it all together
When all that Exercising comes in handy!

Jujutsu, the ancient Japanese martial art of “gentle technique” (don’t let the name fool you—it’s gentle like a tiger is cuddly), is all about using an opponent’s force against them. It’s about turning someone else’s energy into a lesson in gravity. But to execute those slick arm locks, throws, and escapes, you need a body that’s ready to move. Here’s why exercise is crucial in this art:


1. Strength for the Win


Jujutsu requires strength to execute techniques like hip throws or to resist being pinned to the ground like a human pancake. A solid exercise routine—think resistance training, bodyweight exercises, or even hauling your laundry basket up three flights of stairs—builds the muscle power you need to make those moves look effortless.


Plus, a strong core means you’re less likely to end up in a real-life game of Twister with someone who doesn’t play nice. Remember, strength should be used at precise moments. You utilize your opponent's strength to your favor.


2. Endurance to Outlast


Ever tried sparring for five minutes straight? It feels like running a marathon while someone’s trying to tie your shoelaces together. Cardiovascular exercise—whether it’s running, cycling, or dancing like nobody’s watching—gives you the stamina to keep going while your opponent is huffing and puffing. In jujutsu, outlasting your opponent can be the difference between walking away and, well, not.


3. Flexibility for Fancy Moves


Jujutsu is all about flowing like water (cue the Bruce Lee vibes). Flexibility allows you to twist, turn, and escape holds that would make a pretzel jealous. Practices like yoga, dynamic stretching, or even just pretending you’re a ninja during your morning stretch routine can keep your joints limber and ready for action. A flexible body also means you’re less likely to pull something when you’re trying to look cool doing a high kick.


4. Mental Sharpness (and a Dash of Zen)


Exercise isn’t just good for your body; it’s a mood-lifter, stress-buster, and brain-booster. Jujutsu demands quick thinking—knowing when to dodge, when to strike, or when to just smile and say, “You don’t want to do this, buddy.” Regular exercise sharpens your focus and keeps your mind as nimble as your body. Plus, it’s hard to be stressed when you’re too busy laughing at yourself for tripping over your own feet in class.


5. Injury Prevention (Because Ouch)


Here’s where the “sensible” part comes in again. Overtraining is like inviting your body to a party and then forgetting to send it home. Jujutsu can be tough on your joints and muscles, so a balanced exercise routine that includes strength, mobility, and recovery (hello, foam roller!) helps you stay in fighting shape without ending up in the ER. Self-defense is about protecting yourself, not turning yourself into a walking bruise.


Head Instructor Flip Aguilera: Your Guide to Moving Better


Flip in his Bath Club Days in Miami
Flip acting Silly on the Balance ball before a training session in his Miami Days

At Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, you’ll train under the watchful eye of our head instructor, Flip Aguilera. With over 15 years of experience, he’s worked with everyone from A-list actors to Division 1 athletes. Flip’s resume reads like a Hollywood blockbuster credits roll, but his real superpower is helping you move better.


Whether you’re a beginner tripping over your own feet or a seasoned martial artist looking to refine your technique, Flip’s got the knowledge and precision to guide you. He ensures your exercise and jujutsu training are perfectly balanced. This way, you’re building strength and agility without risking injury.


With Flip in your corner, you’ll be dodging, weaving, and throwing like a pro in no time—while having a few laughs along the way. Let’s be real: combining exercise and jujutsu isn’t always glamorous. You might start class feeling like a Samurai only to realize you’re sweating so much you could water a small garden. But that’s the beauty of it—every drop of sweat and every awkward moment is part of your journey.


Try It for Yourself at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs!


Training on the beach is always a great way to start the day
FLip Back in the Miami days training clients on the beach!

Ready to unleash your inner warrior? Discover how exercise and jujutsu can transform your body and mind at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs! We offer a complimentary trial class where you can experience the thrill of jujutsu firsthand. Learn practical self-defense techniques, build strength and confidence, and even have a laugh when you realize your “Samurai moves” need a little work. No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to have fun. Visit our website or give us a call to sign up for your free trial today. Who knows? You might find your new favorite way to stay fit, fierce, and ready for anything.


So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get moving. Your body—and your future self in that dark alley—will thank you. You Are Worth Defending!

Actress Kate Del Castillo Training with Flip!


Thought of the Moment: "The only bad workout is the one that didn't happen," "The body achieves what the mind believes," and "Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live" - Anonymous


Self Defense Jiu Jitsu in Downtown Colorado Springs
Self Defense Jiu Jitsu In Colorado Springs

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