Movement

It seems counter intuitive but Jiu-Jitsu has cured most of my chronic nagging injuries.

Both formerly injured rotator cuffs now rotate pain free.

My chronically painful lower back now has a naturally full range of motion.

Previously tight hamstrings and elbows operate smoothly.

Interestingly when I began a Jiu-Jitsu Journey two and half years ago at 42 years old, a lot of people expressed their concern over injury. And while I have had minor setbacks, including a concussion, black eyes, contusions, and one hyper-extended elbow, these acute injuries all healed quickly, and I’ve come out stronger on the other side. 

The most amazing thing is that my overall physical movement, flexibility, and capability are at an all time high. 

I often laugh when imagining 20 year old Luke facing 45 year old Luke on the mats and I’m proud to say that I don’t think it would bode well for my younger self. 

Good health is the product of a strict training regime, including a variety of HIIT workouts, cardio endeavours, strength training, and most importantly my weekly Jiu-Jitsu session.

There is something about having other athletes twist you like a pretzel, uncomfortably and to the brink of breaking, that allows you to flex further than ever, rehabs previous injuries, and build injury resistance.

As always, discipline combined with short term discomfort and hard work, produce lasting results. 

Stiff joints, old injuries, fatigue, or just a bad mood… movement cures all.

• Now that’s a peak ethos.