Exercise and Jiujitsu: The Ultimate Power Couple
- Self Defense Academy COS
- Jun 29
- 5 min read

Picture this: you’re in a dark alley, facing a shady character who’s clearly watched too many action movies. Your heart’s racing, 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 ultimte 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 is all about 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 just 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.
But here’s the kicker: exercise for self-defense needs to be sensible. You’re not training to become the Hulk, smashing through walls and accidentally 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 not exactly 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 an opponent’s balance—not your own bones.
Why Jujutsu and Exercise Are a Perfect Match

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 the art of turning someone else’s energy into a lesson in gravity. But to pull off those slick arm locks, throws, and escapes, you need a body that’s ready to move. That’s where exercise comes in, and here’s why they’re the ultimate power couple:
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 is to be usied at a precise moment, Becasue we use ouropponents strength to our favor.
2. Endurance to Outlast
Ever tried sparring for five minutes straight? It’s 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 when your opponent’s 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 lets you twist, turn, and escape holds that would make a pretzel jealous. 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. Bonus: flexibility makes you 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, like a brisk walk or a sweaty HIIT session, 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. Exercise and Jiujitsu: The Ultimate Power Couple

Head Instructor Flip Aguilera: Your Guide to Moving Better
At Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs, you’ll be training under the watchful eye of our head instructor, Flip Aguilera, a personal trainer with over 15 years of experience who’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 is there to guide you. He’ll make sure your exercise and jujutsu training are perfectly balanced, so 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 your jujutsu class feeling like a Samurai, only to realize you’re sweating so much you could water a small garden. And exercise? Sometimes it’s just you, some weights, and a playlist that’s 90% motivational speeches. But that’s the beauty of it—every drop of sweat, every awkward moment when you accidentally elbow your sparring partner in the nose (sorry, friend), is part of the journey toස

Try It for Yourself at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs!
If you’re ready to unleash your inner warrior and discover how exercise and jujutsu can transform your body and mind, come join us at Self Defense Academy Colorado Springs! We’re offering a complimentary trial class where you can experience the thrill of jujutsu firsthand. Learn practical self-defense techniques, build strength and confidence, and maybe even laugh at yourself 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 just 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!
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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
