A lesson from the founder of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

by Jeremiah Bell on February 7, 2009

There is nothing softer and weaker than water, and yet there is nothing better for attacking hard and strong things. For this reason there is no substitute for it.
- Lao-Tzu

Average Read Time: 00:01:41

I’m not a real consistent guy. There is only one thing I will do every morning without fail. It isn’t showering, push-ups or having breakfast. Not flossing, making my bed or putting on pants. I do these things often, but it isn’t a guarantee. But every morning without fail, I pee. Whether I am in the woods, at a friends house or in my home. But tomorrow on the advice from Helio Gracie, the father of Brazilian Jiu-Jitzu, that will change. Tomorrow I am going to add something else to my list, and it is going to be…

Let your cup overflow

Drink a glass of water

It’s so simple that anyone can do it. Tomorrow as soon as I wake up, I am going to pee, and then grab a glass of water. I lose some water in the morning, I figure I should fill up the tank.

Why Helio Gracie? Why did he recommend it?

Gracie felt that water was importantĀ in order to stay in top fighting condition at all times. He felt water was a key factor in this, especially in the morning. So, he would get all of his sons to drink a glass of water upon waking up. For those of you who haven’t heard, he passed away two weeks ago at the age of 95. I think it would be suiting to carry on his recommendation and have a glass of water every morning.

Three reasons water will make you a better fighter

1. It makes your mind sharper – Your brain is mostly water, this is why when you are dehydrated, headaches can result. Keep your mind sharp by keeping hydrated.

2. It reduces fatigue – Dehydration causes your blood volume to decrease and then makes it harder for your heart to pump that molasses you call blood. You get tired. Prevent it by drinking up.

3. Your joints and muscles stay in better shape – Your joints need to be well lubricated in order to work well, and your muscles have a high water composition. Keep limber with a glass of water.

An easy habit

This habit doesn’t cost you a thing, and hardly takes any time out of your day. If your New Years resolutions have all failed by now, start anew, with something simple.

Your Digital Trainer,

Jeremiah

Image by vshioshvili

Comments: Does anyone else out there follow this habit? Let us know!

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