i just started BJJ 2 weeks ago and have never been more humbled in my life. AMA

im 32 years old. former college athlete (basketball). thought i was in decent shape. walked into my first BJJ class 2 weeks ago and had the most humbling experience of my entire athletic career.

some highlights from my first two weeks:

• a 155lb purple belt submitted me 7 times in a 6 minute round. im 6'2" 200lbs. size means NOTHING in this sport
• i learned what a rear naked choke feels like. its terrifying and effective. i tapped in about 2 seconds
• i was out of breath within 3 minutes of my first roll. my "cardio" from basketball was completely useless for grappling. completely different energy system
• a 16 year old blue belt pretzel-twisted me into a position i didnt know the human body could be in and then calmly choked me while explaining what he was doing. i nearly quit on the spot
• i had to do laundry 4 times this week because gi smell is a real thing
• my fingers hurt, my neck is sore, and i have bruises i cant explain. i have never been happier

the thing nobody told me: this sport is ADDICTIVE. the problem-solving aspect of grappling — figuring out how to escape, how to control, how to submit — its like physical chess. my brain lights up in a way basketball never did.

im hooked. im bought in. im going to be terrible for a long time and i dont care.

AMA about starting BJJ as a 32 year old former athlete with zero grappling experience. if you are on the fence about trying it, ask your questions.