Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and wellbeing: an inductive thematic analysis exploring how BJJ can increase subjective wellbeing
| Date | 22 March 2024 |
| Pages | 1149-1162 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-11-2023-0116 |
| Published date | 22 March 2024 |
| Author | Ben Morris,Andrew Bone |
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and wellbeing:
an inductive thematic analysis exploring
how BJJ can increase subjective wellbeing
Ben Morris and Andrew Bone
Abstract
Purpose –This study aims to assess the sociopsychological impact that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s (BJJ) can
have on thesubjective wellbeing of practitioners.
Design/methodology/approach –Data was collected through face-to-facesemi-structured interviews
(N¼8) and wereanalysed using thematic analysis by takingan inductive approach.
Findings –Improvements in the wellbeingof practitioners can be made via focusing on specific known
constructs which have previously shown to increase subjective wellbeing. They included the
development of mental toughness, progression towards meaningful goals and/or healthy habits and
behavioursand the forming and maintainingof positive social relationships.
Research limitations/implications –The present work demonstratesthe psychological benefits of BJJ
practiceon several psychological wellbeingtargets, albeit in a modest sample size.
Practical implications –The heightened emphasis on mentalwellbeing in the general population has
added increasing pressureon mental health services (Steptoeet al., 2015; Diener et al., 2018; Johnson
et al., 2018; Wicking& Dean 2020). Therefore, it is of theoreticaland practical advantageto explore novel
ways to helpindividuals with both their mental healthand wellbeing.
Originality/value –The presentstudy seeks to add to an emerging field of research which proposesthat
intentional activities suchas BJJ can be integrated alongside traditional approaches to therapyin their
promiseto help those recovering from mentalhealth issues.
Keywords Health, Sport, Intervention, Rough-and-tumble, Mental toughness, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Paper type Research paper
Introduction
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
In recent years, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) has emerged not only as a martial art and competitive
sport but also as a therapeutic tool with the potential for pr ofound physical, psychological and
social implications (Farrer, 2019;Fogarty, 2020;Weinberger and Burraston, 2021). Originat ing
from traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu through the teachings of Judoka Mitsuyo Mae da and further
developed in Brazil, BJJ has garnered increasing attention for its unique approach to self-
defence and its transformative effects on practitioners’ wellbeing (see Mickelsson, 2020).
The physical demands of BJJ training take an holistic approach to fitness, encompassing
cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength (Detanico et al., 2021), flexibility,
proprioception and the development of life skills (Chinkov and Holt, 2016) and has been
shown to increase endogenous oxytocin, increase serotonin levels and reduce stress
(Rassovsky et al.,2019). Engaging in regular BJJ practice has not only been shown to
enhance physical health but also to foster a sense of embodiment (see Twemlow et al.,
2008) and kinesthetic awareness, which are integral components of somatic therapies
Ben Morris and
Andrew Bone are both
based at the School of
Psychology, Leeds Trinity
University, Leeds, UK.
DOI 10.1108/MHSI-11-2023-0116 VOL. 28 NO. 6 2024, pp. 1149-1162, ©Emerald Publishing Limited, ISSN 2042-8308 jMENTAL HEALTH AND SOCIAL INCLUSION jPAGE 1149
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