My Training Partner Has a Superpower: Autism and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

07-09-2024

Tine Scheldeman

Introduction: Discovering Superpowers on the Mat

In my journey through Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), I've had the privilege of training with people from all walks of life. One experience that has profoundly shaped my understanding of the sport—and life in general—is training with individuals on the autism spectrum.

BJJ is often viewed as a physical discipline, a test of skill and endurance. But when you train with someone who has autism, you realize that the sport is much more than that. It becomes a space where unique strengths are unleashed and where superpowers are discovered. Autism, once misunderstood by many, is a superpower in itself, and BJJ is the perfect place for those abilities to shine.

The Unique Strengths of Autism

Autism is often discussed in terms of its challenges, but what is often overlooked are the incredible strengths that come with it. People on the autism spectrum have extraordinary focus, attention to detail, and the ability to see the world in ways that others might miss. These traits, when harnessed, make them formidable on the mat.

In BJJ, these strengths translate beautifully. The precision needed for each movement, the mental discipline, and the focus required to execute a technique are areas where individuals with autism can truly excel. Training with these partners has shown me that their attention to detail is unmatched, and their perseverance is inspiring.

Why Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Is a Perfect Fit for Autism

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a sport that requires patience, discipline, and a lot of repetition—qualities that align perfectly with the strengths of people on the autism spectrum. Here's why BJJ works so well:

Structured Environment: BJJ classes often follow a predictable routine. This structure creates a sense of comfort for individuals with autism, helping them to feel secure in their surroundings.
Physical Sensory Engagement: BJJ is a full-contact sport, which can be incredibly grounding for people on the spectrum. It provides proprioceptive input (body awareness) and can help with sensory regulation, which some individuals with autism seek through movement and physical touch.
Focus and Precision: BJJ is a detailed art, with many small techniques and adjustments that make a big difference. I've found that individuals with autism often have a knack for mastering these details. Their focus allows them to break down techniques in a way that many others struggle with.
Social Interaction in a Controlled Space: While BJJ can be an individual sport, it's also a community-based practice. Training with others allows individuals with autism to interact in a controlled environment where the boundaries are clear. Over time, I've seen shy, reserved individuals blossom into confident practitioners, learning teamwork and forming bonds on the mat.

Building Confidence and Social Skills

One of the most rewarding aspects of training with individuals on the autism spectrum is watching their confidence grow. BJJ is a sport that requires resilience; you will get submitted, you will lose position, and you will have to fight your way back. Over time, I've seen my training partners, who initially struggled with self-doubt, transform into confident, assertive individuals.

The structured, supportive environment of a BJJ class creates a safe space for people to make mistakes and learn from them. For individuals with autism, this can be incredibly empowering. They begin to understand that mistakes are part of the process and that improvement comes through persistence. As their skills grow, so does their self-esteem, and it spills over into other areas of their lives, including social interactions.

Lessons Learned on and off the Mat

Training in BJJ is about more than physical technique—it's a mental game. One of the most valuable lessons I've learned from training with individuals on the autism spectrum is the power of persistence and the beauty of incremental progress.

People with autism often thrive on routine and repetition, and these are essential elements of BJJ training. Watching them approach each class with consistency and determination has taught me to appreciate the small victories. Whether it's mastering a new technique or simply showing up and putting in the work, their dedication reminds me that progress isn't always flashy—it's the steady, committed journey that leads to long-term success.

Encouragement for Others to Explore BJJ

If you're someone who works with or knows individuals on the autism spectrum, I strongly encourage you to consider Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as an outlet for them. It's not just a physical activity; it's a transformative experience that builds confidence, social skills, and self-discipline.

In my experience, the mats are a place where people with autism can shine, where their unique abilities are celebrated, and where they can learn to embrace their strengths. BJJ is for everyone, and it offers a space for those on the spectrum to thrive—not despite their autism, but because of it.

Final thoughts: Embracing the Superpower of Autism

Training with individuals on the autism spectrum has changed my perspective on both the sport and life. BJJ isn't just about becoming a better athlete; it's about becoming a better person. My partners on the mat have shown me that what many perceive as a challenge is, in fact, a superpower waiting to be unlocked.

Autism brings unique strengths—focus, persistence, attention to detail—that are invaluable both on and off the mat. Watching these individuals embrace their abilities and grow through BJJ has been nothing short of inspiring. Their journey, like mine, is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the incredible things that happen when we harness our true potential.