“I never expected Jiu-Jitsu to be my way of making new friends, but it changed everything.”
Hey, I’m Emily; after relocating to a new city, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu helped me find community.
I relocated to a new city for work around one year ago. The fresh start delighted me, but I had no idea how lonely it would feel.
I knew no one, and working long hours at the office meant I was not meeting anybody.
Weekends seemed limitless, and I stayed in my apartment much of the free time browsing social media, wishing I had someone to go on a stroll or grab coffee with.
“Moving somewhere new can be exciting, but without community, it can quickly feel isolating.”
Being naturally quiet, and meeting new people was already difficult, but after a few months of this lonely cycle, I felt I had to act.
Before I relocated, a friend told me about Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Then, I wondered why not? Perhaps I would have a decent workout and maybe run across some friends.
“Sometimes, the best way to break out of isolation is to step into something uncomfortable.”
Anxiety yet hope drove me to register for my first class.
At first, walking into that gym was frightening; everyone seemed to know each other and I had no idea how to correctly tie the belt!
Still, something startling occurred. The other pupils as well as the coach were rather friendly.
From the time I set on the mats, I was treated as part of the team rather than like an outsider.
“The best communities are the ones that welcome you for just showing up.”
Jiu-Jitsu training helped me to relate to people in a manner I never before.
Rolling with someone requires engagement, hence before I realized it I was befriending someone.
Class each class, I discovered that I was not only picking up fresh skills but also laughing, chatting, and sharing with folks from many backgrounds.
“Jiu-Jitsu isn’t just about technique—it’s about building bonds through shared struggle and growth.”
I had not anticipated the speed with which I started to feel at home in this new place. It was the people, not only the instruction that kept me returning.
A few months later I was attending seminars, grabbing dinner with friends after class, and even invited to weekend gatherings.
Jiu-Jitsu turned from a hobby into my social center.
“Sometimes, finding community isn’t about where you go—it’s about who you struggle alongside.”
One year later, I not only got better in Jiu-Jitsu but also discovered a network of people who have evolved into almost family.
Though moving to a new location was difficult, Jiu-Jitsu provided a community where I felt noticed, encouraged, and welcomed.
“Community is about connection, and sometimes it’s found in the most unexpected places.”
I really advise attempting something like Jiu-Jitsu if you’re feeling isolated or having trouble meeting people in a new area.
It’s an opportunity to really, really interact with people, not only a workout.
“The hardest part of finding community is taking that first step, but once you do, you’ll be amazed at what you can find.”
If this story resonates with you—or even if yours is unique—we’d love to hear it! Want your story featured on our website? Send it to: ben@jiujitsu-news.com.
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