The Case for Jiu Jitsu Retreats: Training, Community, and Perspective
As I sit at the airport waiting to return to the United States, I continue trying to figure out how I can cancel my flight and stay in Costa Rica. I know that’s not possible, but a girl can dream.
I’m heading home from Hero Retreats after a few days with Chewy (Nick Albin), Sean Hammonds, and a boatload of other people who also traveled out to Costa Rica to train and enjoy life. As they say here… Pura Vida.
I found this amazing place because of Hero Retreats. My first retreat with Ron (Hero owner) was 3 years ago and I made lifelong friends. I return now because I fell in love with the purpose of the retreat and Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
What Makes A Retreat Different From Class
The focus is on a group of techniques or a theme. There are often 6-10 sessions ranging in length and including open mats over a very short period of time. This is perfect for really honing in a technique. The professors have more free time and can spend more 1-on-1 time with students as well.
Rolling with people from all different schools challenges you to see how your game works against completely different styles from your home gym.
There is a focus on community. People are not there to kill each other. They are there to truly learn from each other both on and off the mats. There are many other activites outside of the gym where friendships are built.
Hero Retreats
This was my 2nd time a Hero Retreats. The first was with Xande Ribiero, which was incredible as well!! What I love about how Ron approaches things is that he used these retreats to not only give the retreat gooer an incredible experience, but he utilizes funds to support Professors and to give local kids the opportunity to train with scholarships.
Why Retreats Are Valuable For Adults
Most of us adult athletes are full of stress and lacking in time. These retreats are a vacation from the world, especially when they are in places such as Costa Rica. Training with locals and experiencing the culture in such a chill beach town helps us realize how life should be. It slows us down. There is no rushing to get somewhere after class. A 90 minute session turns into 3 hours of training, exchanging ideas, and, of course, bullshitting!
Many retreats also include question and answer sessions. Last weekend, someone asked me “how do you roll with big people?” So much more than technique. It is about the lifestyle and how to train for longevity too!
Finally, there are mindset sessions included breathwork and ice baths!
Final Takeaways
Jiu Jitsu isn’t about who trains harder. It is about who enjoys it more, while training hard when it is necessary. Keeping the body and mind healthy are crucial… which are the 2 things these retreats bring. Plus, you’ll get a great tan! For your next vacation, try out a jiu jitsu retreat. I promise you will not regret it.
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Dr. Megan Lisset Jimenez
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