BJJ Mental Models Ep. 345: Back After Layoffs, feat. Elisabeth Clay
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Jul 7, 2025 Elisabeth Clay, an elite Jiu-Jitsu competitor and new mom, shares her inspiring journey of returning to the mat after pregnancy and injury. She discusses the mental hurdles athletes face, including navigating anxiety and the importance of community support during breaks. Elisabeth emphasizes the need for safety and communication in training while pregnant and reflects on the unique challenges women encounter in sports. Her insights on balancing motherhood and Jiu-Jitsu highlight authentic connection, realistic goal-setting, and staying engaged with the Jiu-Jitsu culture.
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Stay Immersed During Layoffs
- Stay immersed in the gym culture even if you can't physically train.
- This helps reduce anxiety and embarrassment when returning after injury or pregnancy.
Start Training Early Post-Layoff
- Accept that early struggles after layoff are inevitable and inevitable.
- Start training as soon as physically able to reduce downtime and speed recovery.
Maintain Gym Habit
- Maintain the habit of going to the gym even if not actively training.
- Habit persistence helps ease re-entry and preserves mental connections to jiu-jitsu.