Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that requires intense physical activity, and controlling your breathing can be a significant factor in your performance. In the YouTube video by Chewjitsu below, he explains how controlling your breathing can make a big difference when rolling BJJ. Here are some of the key takeaways from his video.
Breathe Through Your Nose
According to Chewjitsu, breathing through your nose is the most effective way to control your breathing during a BJJ match. Breathing through your nose forces you to take slower, deeper breaths, which can help you maintain your composure and control your pace. When you breathe through your mouth, you tend to take shorter, more rapid breaths, which can make you feel anxious and increase your heart rate.
Control the Pace of Your Breathing
When you breathe through your nose, you have greater control over the pace of your breathing. You can take slow, deep breaths when you need to relax and conserve energy, and speed up your breathing when you want to increase your intensity. By controlling the pace of your breathing, you can avoid becoming too exhausted too quickly and maintain your stamina throughout the match.
Tire Out Your Opponent
If you notice that your opponent is heavily breathing through their mouth while you are breathing through your nose, it’s a good sign that you are in control of the match. By maintaining a steady breathing pace, you can tire out your opponent and gain the upper hand. Over time, their rapid breathing will reduce their oxygen levels, leading to fatigue and potentially making them more susceptible to making mistakes.
Shift to Mouth Breathing When Needed
While breathing through your nose is generally the best option for maintaining control, there may be times when you need to switch to breathing through your mouth. For example, if you are trying to make a sudden burst of energy to get out of a tough position, breathing through your mouth can help you take in more oxygen more quickly. However, be sure to shift back to nose breathing once you regain control of the match.
Conclusion
Breathing is a critical component of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and controlling your breathing can have a significant impact on your performance. By breathing through your nose, controlling the pace of your breathing, and shifting to mouth breathing when needed, you can maintain your stamina and outlast your opponent. Try incorporating these breathing techniques into your BJJ practice, and you may notice a significant improvement in your performance.
