Around 24 years ago, when I first started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu down in Boulder, Colorado, CrossFit was just emerging on the fitness scene. At that time, it was an exciting new workout style with features like the “workout of the day.” Many people training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and MMA use CrossFit to complement their martial arts training.

Over the years, many students have asked me, “What is CrossFit?” and wanted to know my thoughts on it. I’ve done CrossFit myself, and I think it has a lot of benefits for the right type of person. I want to share some of the biggest differences I’ve seen between BJJ training and CrossFit to help you decide what best fits your goals.

Skill Training vs. Chasing Metrics

The first thing to look at is the difference between learning a skill and chasing numbers.

When you train in CrossFit, you are mostly chasing metrics, trying to increase reps, lift more weight, or beat a certain time. While that can be a great challenge, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training is much more focused on skill acquisition and personal development.

In BJJ, you still get an incredible workout, but you also learn about what athletes often call the “flow state.” This happens when you’re rolling against another person, whether it’s here at the academy or during competition.

When you roll or compete, you may feel nervous or even a little scared. Over time, you develop the ability to stay calm, present, and focused in the moment. That’s what flow state is all about.

I’ve heard stories about athletes like Michael Jordan who talked about their best performances happening when they stopped thinking about winning or losing and simply flowed.

You may experience some of that while racing against a timer in CrossFit, but combat sports offer a level of intensity and focus that a stopwatch simply can’t replicate.

Why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Training Is More Sustainable Long-Term

Another important topic is sustainability.

One of the questions people ask is, “Is CrossFit good for you?” It certainly can be, but it’s also extremely intense. For older adults or people with previous injuries, it can become more difficult over time.

I was 26 and in excellent shape when I first found CrossFit, but as you age, the chance of injury during high-intensity workouts increases.

One of the things I love about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training is that you can continue doing it well into your 60s and 70s. Of course, injuries can still happen in BJJ, but if you train smart, choose good training partners, and focus on sustainability, you can stay on the mats for decades.

That’s why you see so many parents and older students training with us during our morning and noon classes. One of our coaches, Walter, is in his 60s and still crushing it on the mat.

BJJ Offers Real-World Self-Defense Skills

Another major difference between CrossFit and BJJ training is the difference between “gym fitness” and real-world utility.

In BJJ, you get an amazing full-body workout, but you may not necessarily look like a bodybuilder. In fact, carrying excessive muscle can sometimes make you gas out faster during training.

One of the biggest benefits of training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is developing real self-defense skills. That’s something CrossFit simply doesn’t provide.

BJJ teaches you:

• How to stay calm under pressure
• How to handle physical intensity
• How to think clearly in stressful situations
• How to protect yourself and your family

With everything happening in the world today, it gives me peace of mind knowing I have the skills to defend myself and my loved ones if I ever need to.

That feeling of confidence and preparedness is one of the reasons I’m still training now that I’m in my 50s.

Building an Active Lifestyle the Whole Family Can Share

Another major difference is how these activities fit into family life.

While many CrossFit gyms focus primarily on the individual, whole families train together in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs.

At our academy, we believe in building a community where families grow together. We want both kids and adults to learn at the appropriate level so they can continue improving long-term.

In BJJ, there’s also a very clear progression system:

• Beginner classes
• Intermediate classes
• Advanced classes
• Stripe promotions
• Belt promotions

Students are constantly working toward meaningful goals that represent personal growth, not just exhaustion from a workout.

We even offer family plans because we know how important it is to support the entire team.

My wife and I actually met through BJJ in Boulder, and over the years, our entire family has trained together. It has been one of the greatest benefits in our lives.

Why More People Are Choosing BJJ Over Traditional Fitness Programs

One of the reasons more adults are exploring Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training is because it offers something many traditional workout programs don’t: purpose.

With BJJ, every class challenges you mentally and physically. You’re constantly learning, adapting, and improving. The workout never feels repetitive because every roll and every training session is different.

For many people in BJJ programs, training becomes more than exercise; it becomes a lifelong practice that builds confidence, discipline, friendships, and resilience.

Final Thoughts on BJJ vs CrossFit

This blog isn’t about bashing CrossFit. I think it can absolutely be a great option, especially for younger athletes, and I personally enjoyed it for many years.

I simply wanted to share why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training may be a better long-term fit for certain types of students, especially those looking for:

• sustainable fitness
• self-defense skills
• mental growth
• community
• lifelong learning

I hope this helps you decide which type of training is right for you.

If you’ve been considering trying Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes in Fort Collins, we’d love to have you come experience it for yourself.

– Professor Finnie McMahon