The Do’s and Don’ts of Training through the Holidays: ‘Tis the Season to Stay Moving

The holidays are a tumultuous time for training jiu-jitsu. This is the time of year where most people completely fall off the self-improvement grid and opt instead for glorious feasts and more rest days than training days. This is not limited to jiu-jitsu practitioners. For everyone, the holidays are a great excuse to get off of just about any diet and exercise regimen. From about Thanksgiving until the new year, weight-gain becomes rampant, training becomes sparse and family time is abundant. Training usually takes a back seat.

If you do plan on training over the holidays, you will encounter a few complications. One of the biggest obstacles to training through the holidays is that a lot of schools are closed down. This fact can make it tough for any athlete trying to squeeze in a few sessions throughout the Christmas and New Year break. Most people just assume this is par for the course and use it as a sign to enjoy a break and resume in the New Year. Here are some Do’s and Don’ts for you if you are trying to maximize your time over this time of year:

Do

Find ways to keep training

Taking time off of training is rarely an option for serious practitioners. Most of the people completely engulfed in the gentle art will find ways to

train in some capacity or another while their schools have reduced hours or are simply closed. If you are a serious practitioner, you might be finding ways to get your training in at all costs. You can consider asking your coaches or Professors if they will allow you to run a holiday open mat. Another option is to see if any of your friends or training partners have set up some home mats so that you can get in a session or two in someone’s garage. Another less convenient option is to travel across town or across the state to cross-train at another academy. If you are in dire need of getting your fix over the holidays, you will find a way.