December 6, 2023
Whether you’re a seasoned black belt or an inexperienced up-and-comer with big plans for your career, making a living from Jiu-Jitsu and building up a name for yourself within the sport is generally the goal of most athletes. While all of that is technically attainable even if you just fight in your home country, it is undeniable that fighting abroad is a key part of the journey, one that can speed up your progress considerably.
But leaving the place and the culture you’re familiar with to explore new territory comes with its own set of challenges and not just in the mats. With that in mind, AJP has set aside 3 important tips that’ll make being a stranger in a strange land easier as you grow in the competitive scene. Check it out below!
What will you be eating?
A big part of being an athlete is having a consistent diet, with proteins and other essential nutrients to enhance your conditioning and improve upon your general fitness. But when you step into uncharted territory, there’s a solid chance that the food you eat daily will not be so easily accessible, meaning you might need to turn to the local cuisine. Whenever you’re getting ready to fly to another country for a competition, take the time to research the local eating habits, the most common foods available, and their nutritional value. This will ensure that you’ll be well-fed and healthy whenever you reach the mats. Plus, you might even discover some local delicacies for you to try.
Where will you be staying?
Equally important to your diet is the place you’ll be sleeping in for the next couple of days. Even if you’re not staying in the country for long, choosing appropriate housing can make or break your performance in tournaments. The closest place to the venue might not always be the best place when it comes to price or comfort. To properly balance each aspect, plan ahead of time and make sure you weigh your options before making a decision. A rash decision here may have a steep price on your wallet and your body.
How will you get to the venue?
With eating and sleeping sorted, now it’s time to think about transportation. Different countries have different currencies, so using private transportation may not always be the best choice, especially when public transit is well implemented. After you choose where you’ll be staying, take the time to research the best ways to get to the venue and see if there could be any hurdles to slow your progress, like bad weather or excessive traffic. This simple step will keep you from unwelcome surprises and will help you stay in the right mindset ahead of the competition.
To help you with these choices, the AJP website offers a map with the venue location and the closest accommodations available, including pricing in your local currency. So add another step to your preparation and plan ahead of time to make sure you’ll be able to stay focused on your Jiu-Jitsu by the time you reach another country.
