When I first stepped onto the jiu-jitsu mats five years ago, I never imagined enjoying jiu-jitsu. Back then, I thought I’d train somewhat consistently, level up slowly, and maybe even be a blue belt by now. But life had other plans—three of them, to be exact.
Between pregnancies, postpartum recovery, sleepless nights, and raising little ones, my jiu-jitsu journey has been anything but linear. There have been long stretches where I couldn’t train at all, times when I felt like a stranger to the sport, and moments when I wondered if I’d ever make real progress. But no matter how much time passed, I always found my way back to the mats.
Progress Isn’t Always Fast—But It’s Still Progress
In a world that celebrates quick wins and overnight success, it’s easy to feel discouraged when things take longer than expected. Watching teammates start after me and move ahead in rank was exciting and motivating yet served as a reminder to myself that my path was different. My journey wasn’t just about belts or stripes—it was about showing up when I could, learning at my own pace, and embracing the season of life I was in. And most importantly connecting with the students and staff.
Training Through Motherhood
Jiu-jitsu as a mom isn’t easy. Some days, it’s a logistical nightmare and requires the help of sitters and grandparents. Other times, it means missing weeks or months at a time because my family needs me more…after school activities, illnesses, dad’s travel schedule, ect. But every time I return, I realize that the mats will always be there, waiting for me. And every time I show up, I prove to myself that I can still do this. That I’m stronger than I think. That I’m faster than I feel.
Why the Belt Color Doesn’t Matter
For many, a white belt represents a starting point. For me, it’s been a symbol of resilience. I may not train as often as I’d like, and I may not be the most technical, but I laugh and learn while getting in a mental and physical workout. Jiu-jitsu isn’t about how fast you get somewhere—it’s about the fact that you keep going.
To any other moms out there who feel like they’re stuck or falling behind in any journey in your life, I want you to know this: there’s no timeline for that journey. Whether it takes five years, ten years, or a lifetime, what matters is that you keep coming back. Your progress is still progress, no matter how slow.
So I’ll keep showing up when I can, tying my white belt, and stepping onto the mats to show my kids that if their momma can do it, so can they.
