Brazilian Jiu Jitsu: You Can Do It Twice a Day If You Have Enough Salt
Maybe you aren’t that tired. Maybe it’s not the lack of sleep, but the lack of electrolytes in your body that’s making you feel exhausted. As someone who practices Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu twice a day, I can attest to the impact that electrolytes can have on your performance and overall energy levels.
I vividly remember the first time I experienced the effects of depleted electrolytes during a BJJ class. My head throbbed like a was beaver gnawing on the base of my skull, and without sodium, my thighs suddenly felt like a pair of wet coach cushions (the first stage of cramping). I drank water constantly, but it ran right through me in the form of sweat, which pooled on the floor, soaked into my friend’s gis, and eventually filled my eye sockets. Afterwards, I went home and slept for an hour and felt stupid and demotivated the rest of the day. I couldn’t understand how anyone could train 10 times a week no matter how much they loved the sport.
It wasn’t until I started supplementing with electrolytes that I noticed a significant difference in my performance and energy levels. Sodium and potassium, in particular, play a critical role in regulating fluid balance and muscle function. When you sweat, you lose not only water but also these essential electrolytes, which can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and cramping.
One of the most convenient ways to replenish electrolytes is through sports drinks or powders, which are readily available in most stores. However, some of these products may contain high amounts of sugar, which can be counterproductive and even harmful in the long run. That’s why I prefer to use electrolyte tablets, which are low in calories and allow me to customize my intake based on my needs.
Not only did supplementing with electrolytes give me more energy and prevent headaches, but it also improved my overall performance during BJJ. I was able to sustain my intensity and focus for longer periods, which allowed me to execute techniques more effectively and avoid making careless mistakes due to fatigue.
Of course, electrolytes are not a magic solution to all performance problems. Getting enough rest, eating a balanced diet, and practicing good stress management are also crucial for maintaining optimal physical and mental health. However, if you’re an athlete or someone looking for ways to have more energy, I highly recommend considering electrolyte supplementation as a natural and effective option.
Electrolytes are a key factor in unlocking your natural performance potential. By replenishing these essential minerals, you can avoid dehydration, fatigue, and cramping, and maintain your energy levels and focus during intense workouts. So next time you feel exhausted, remember that it may not be the lack of sleep or over training, but the lack of electrolytes that’s holding you back.
