By Adam Pockran, Remedial Massage Therapist
Soft Tissue Therapy for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: Part 1
Whether you’re a mat monster who competes regularly or hobbyist training for fun there’s no doubt that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) puts a lot of strain on your body. Soft tissue therapy carried out by some one who understands the specific demands that BJJ places on your body can be an invaluable part of your recovery.
What are the possible ways for your body to be strained in a training or competition?
Certain areas or postures can be put under increased demand depending on your style of game, there are also other areas that will commonly experience high load/usage across the majority of practitioners. Along with the load considerations, there are the inevitable (hopefully minor!) injuries from a quickly applied arm bar, or from attempting to fight your way out of a guillotine which can lead to pain or stiffness.
For example, most if not all areas of your neck and spine will be under heavy use, whether from the pressure of being stacked and inverting as a guard player, or maintaining posture or standing to break guard on top. Multiple training sessions per week will mean these muscles are put under a lot of stress, which may make you feel tight or sore.
How can this therapy help you quickly recover?
Working with a skilled soft tissue therapist who understands these demands can help to ease this muscular tension or aches and pains. Combining regular massage with a skilled practitioner with other recovery techniques such as stretching/mobility work, a balanced diet and adequate sleep will help to keep you rolling at your best.
In Part 2 we’ll look at the ways soft tissue work can help when things don’t go to plan and you collect yourself an injury.
If you have any further questions feel free to contact us here at Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy and we can help guide you to determine the best massage treatment for you.
Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy
Melbourne Sports Physio has a range of qualified and experienced professionals who can help provide ongoing support and treatment. Our friendly team are located in across Melbourne in Essendon, North Melbourne and Blackburn South, and appointments can be made by calling or booking online.