Jiu jitsu fighters urged to make a cautious return to training and competition

Jiu jitsu fighters, of all ages and at various stages of development, are eager to return to the mats and resume training and competition.

Hiten Maisuria, 32, who has previously worked with former English Premier league side Queens Park Rangers FC as an academy physiotherapist, has been an important addition to the UAE’s jiu-jitsu team’s technical staff, having taken on the role in May this year.

Maisuria said it is important for fighters to be aware of a few crucial details that could help guard them from injuries on the mat once they return and also shield them from overtraining, according to a press release.

“Yes, we are excited to get back on the mats and the mood within the community is one of excitement and encouragement. However, it is important to remember that most fighters will be coming back after a long break, having not built up the requisite volume of heavy sparring and thus will have be more careful about taking care of their bodies and avoiding injuries,” he says.

Maisuria has come out with a set of tips that he says fighters would do well to hold close to mark their return to training without injuring themselves and gradually building a strong training base.

Maisuria stressed on a good warm-up. “A lot of injuries in jiu-jitsu are often because the fighters don’t really warm-up in the right way.

Rushing through a warm-up can have serious consequences. A good warm-up can be one that gets all your main muscle-groups moving, mobilises your joints, and incorporates dynamic stretching exercises,” said Maisuria.

Maisura also emphasised on maintaining precaution as the fighters return. An aspect that is often hidden away according to Maisuria is fighters failing to report minor niggles or knocks sustained during training to the medical staff.

He also said the fighters should not scrimp on sleep. “The demands placed on your body in a sport like jiu-jitsu and as you progress through the belts is immense. Sleep is a very important ingredient in any athlete’s success and getting seven to nine hours of sleep every night is essential,” he said.

The final aspect, Maisuria stressed was the physical conditioning for success on the mat. According Maisuria, it is crucial for fighters to understand their bodies, listen to them, and have a strength and conditioning programme that hits all the right areas and prepares a fighter’s body to be in prime condition on the mat.

“It is key for fighters to maintain intensity throughout the bout and to also quicken recovery between them. Grip strength and muscle endurance are areas that are often overlooked but if you look at what a fighter has to do on the mat, these two aspects are vital. Building up grip strength and gradually improving muscle endurance will help fighters be at their best for longer periods on the mat,” he said.

• Abu Dhabi