When I signed up for the summer boot camp, I was just hoping to break a sweat and reclaim a little “me” time. Life as a mom is nonstop, and between work, school drop-offs, and endless laundry, I’d put my own fitness on the back burner for way too long. I didn’t expect to fall into something completely new—and kind of intimidating.
The boot camp started with what I expected: circuit workouts, squats, burpees, and a whole lot of sweat. But then they introduced us to kickboxing. At first, I felt totally awkward putting on gloves and trying to remember the difference between a jab and a cross, but I ended up loving it. Hitting those pads was such a release, and it made me feel strong in a way I hadn’t in a long time. We play some grappling games and got introduced to some basic self defense type Jiu Jitsu.
I was terrified but intrigued. A friend had just signed up and I reluctantly decided to jump in class with her. I’m not gonna lie—I was nervous. Like, really nervous. The idea of grappling, being on the ground, and working with advanced partners felt way out of my comfort zone. But I showed up anyway, heart pounding and questioning every life choice that led me to that mat.
To my surprise, the advanced students I was paired with were so kind and encouraging. They weren’t there to show off—they were there to help. They walked me through every move step-by-step, checked in to make sure I was comfortable, and reminded me that everyone starts somewhere. I felt lost and bad that they were stuck with me but they didn’t mind at all. I was reminded that everyone once had a first class and they were in my shoes before.
That first class left me sore in places I didn’t even know existed. My hips, shoulders, and core were on fire—but in the best possible way. I felt like I’d actually done something, pushed myself past fear and doubt and come out the other side stronger.
What really made the difference were the coaches. They broke down the fundamentals in a way that made sense, and they never made me feel like I didn’t belong. Instead, they helped me believe that maybe—just maybe—this was something I could be good at.
I walked in nervous. I walked out smiling and sweating. I don’t know where this journey is going to take me, but I do know one thing: I’m coming back. Because Jiu Jitsu isn’t just about self-defense or fitness—it’s about confidence, community, and discovering what you’re capable of when you stop holding yourself back.
