New Year, New Peeps

It's that time of year again. When everyone's gotten bloated off of rib roasts,chocolate and alcohol and are ready to do something about it. You see it when you hit the gym right after the holidays. Not only is the regular crowd there, but you have a whole new crop of bodies signing up and every staff member is reporting for duty to earn their commissions. You're annoyed because your bank of treadmills are populated by strollers with brand new gear from Lululemon that you'll know they won't wear more than twice. You laugh at these new peeps using equipment incorrectly, the ones who stand around talking with their friends while guzzling down their water instead of actually working out. Give it a month, you think to yourself. The herd will thin out.

But since doing BJJ exclusively, my perspective on New Years resolutioners has changed considerably. I'm like a Mormon or a Jesuit missionary, that kid in high school who proudly passed around invites to his church youth group. Yes, I'm that guy. If you have turned your curiosity into action, if you have overcome your anxiety enough to drive to the gym, put on a gi and step on the mats, I make it my mission to ensure that your first visit is not your last and that it's a positive experience. I make sure to introduce you around, partner with you for drilling, clarify some of the basics and set you up for successful rolling.

I know that only a small percentage will sign up. I know a smaller percentage will make it to blue. And an even smaller percentage will make it past that. But I'll take what I can get. BJJ has that much to offer. Because I cannot forget what it's done for me.

If you're struggling with your weight and other activities haven't hooked you yet, consider the full body workout that is BJJ. If you've always worried about your ability to defend yourself, consider BJJ. If you are a lifelong UFC junkie but have never grappled, consider BJJ.

So if you train, spread the good word. Invite that friend of yours that has always been curious about joining (or who keeps saying next time). If you don't train, swing by and take a free intro class. I can't think of a gym that doesn't offer this. I have met many people who have expressed how they wished they started training years earlier. But I have never heard anyone express regret for having started.

See you in the new year... on the mats.