The countdown to the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s Rio Open has begun. With the competition around the corner (July 23rd-26th), competitors from around the world are starting to flood into Rio De Janerio. With athletes coming from the United States, Germany, Australia, England, and many other countries both large and small, it is easy to see the significance of this tournament.

For weeks, potential competitors have been increasing the intensity and duration of their workouts in the hope of gaining that gold medal. In addition to increased workouts, people are also watching what they eat, and buying the lightest kimono (or Gi) so they can compete at the top of their division. Many non-grapplers do not realize how important competing in the “correct” weight class is, but to the die-hard competitor it is a very important aspect of their preparation.

There is still an element of mystery associated with every tournament and especially one as large as the Rio Open. Many questions flood through an athlete’s head like: “Who will I fight?” “What will they do?” and “How is this injury going to feel the day of the competition?” With important questions like these running through the minds of competitors it is easy to lose focus of the goal. Ultimately Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors train as hard as they can, prepare themselves for as many different opponents as possible, and hope their bodies hold out long enough to stand on the podium.

Only time will tell the answers to these mysteries and only one person will go home with the gold medal. It is the hope and desire of every athlete to perform well, achieve victory and represent their instructor in the best way possible.

By:  Jeremy Arel

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