The Strenuous Life Podcast with Stephan Kesting 426 - What Needs to Change to Do Jiu-Jitsu after Age 35
Jun 24, 2025
Join Chris Jessulat, a wrestler, jiu-jitsuka, and author of 'The Wrong Side of 35', as he shares insights on staying active in jiu-jitsu after 35. He discusses strategies for adapting training to physical changes, focusing on mobility, and breaking through plateaus. Chris highlights the psychological journey of transitioning from competitive grappling to a more recreational approach. The importance of a supportive community and proactive recovery strategies is emphasized, making it clear that age brings unique challenges but also rich experiences in martial arts.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
From Wrestling To Jiu-Jitsu
- Chris Jessulat started wrestling in school, found jiu-jitsu in his late 20s, and trained across grappling arts for 20+ years.
- He credits jiu-jitsu for keeping him active after his competitive wrestling career ended.
Why Jiu-Jitsu Supports Lifelong Participation
- Wrestling lacks a broad recreational channel compared with jiu-jitsu, making the transition out of competitive wrestling jarring.
- Jiu-jitsu provides sustainable recreational options that retain athletes long-term.
Add Mobility To Daily Routine
- Introduce mobility work to cover movement patterns missing from a desk job.
- Use programs like Yoga for BJJ and consistent rolling, foam rolling, or massage to address tightness.
