Demian Maia recently revealed what he considers to be the ‘3 pillars of Jiu-Jitsu’ and it makes for very interesting reading. Maia is not only an incredibly successful BJJ competitor but he has also used his elite grappling skills to carve out a lengthy career at the very top of the UFC. Not only did Maia win dozens of fights in the promotion’s cage, but he also challenged for world titles in both welterweight and middleweight divisions during his career. Maia had an incredibly successful MMA career, with the vast majority of it being down to his Jiu-Jitsu and the fact that he could outgrapple almost everyone he came across.
Maia’s 3 pillars of Jiu-Jitsu are all things that he believes BJJ provides to those who practice it, and it’s hard to argue with any of them. He started out with one of the most commonly-cited benefits of Jiu-Jitsu, and it’s one that most seasoned practitioners have experienced along the way:
“Self-Confidence: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is widely recognised as the most efficient martial art ever created. In the UFC scene, for example, all fighters possess some level of knowledge in Jiu-Jitsu. Knowing BJJ, therefore, is a true source of security and confidence.”
The second pillar of Jiu-Jitsu according to Demian Maia is one that is often referenced as a huge benefit for children starting the sport, but it’s something that a lot of adults could improve as well:
“Resilience: Practicing BJJ means dealing with uncomfortable situations that will inevitably arise. Developing resilience is about learning to accept discomfort, persist, adapt, and overcome challenges.”
The final of Maia’s pillars of Jiu-Jitsu is echoed in a common phrase used in academies around the world; ‘leave your ego at the door’. Although that is a cliche, it’s a cliche for a reason and it seems as though Maia would approve of it:
“Vanity Control: BJJ teaches humility. It forces you to confront your own limits, recognize your fears and insecurities, promoting personal growth and emotional balance.”
Demian Maia shared his ‘3 pillars of Jiu-Jitsu’ in a recent post to his official Instagram account:
