Jiu-Jitsu
Warriors
Helping veterans heal through Jiu-Jitsu — a mission born from research, and carried on through our nonprofit, Balanced Life Warriors.
The Mission
Training as
therapy
Tampa Jiu-Jitsu took part in a clinical study conducted with USF Health at the University of South Florida, examining how physical activity affects symptoms of psychological trauma. One of the programs studied was Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Participants who completed the Jiu-Jitsu program showed a meaningful, statistically significant reduction in symptoms of post-traumatic stress — suggesting that Jiu-Jitsu can be a beneficial, accessible, and cost-effective way to support those who have experienced trauma.
Jiu-Jitsu gave our veterans a way to reconnect — with their bodies, their calm, and each other.
The Nonprofit
Balanced Life
Warriors
Inspired by the study’s results, Tampa Jiu-Jitsu helped launch Balanced Life Warriors — a nonprofit working to bring Jiu-Jitsu’s benefits to more veterans, first responders, and their communities through partner schools.
If you’re a veteran interested in training, or you’d like to support the program, we’d love to hear from you. You’ll be met one-on-one, at your own pace, by people who treat this room like family.
Veterans, first responders and students · one mat
“Rebecca, Ryan and their staff are the best! I’m a recent graduate of their USF Health Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Yoga (Helping Veterans) program. I got assigned to the Yoga program — I’ll be honest, at first I did not want to continue. However, I’m glad I followed through with it because the practice helped tremendously with my anxiety and sleep issues. They also provided the opportunity to go to the Jiu-Jitsu classes after graduation, and they are on point! Even with a full class for both Jiu-Jitsu and Yoga the instructors find the time to give you individual attention when needed.”
Note: The USF Health research described above reflects findings from a completed study. It is shared for context and is not a medical claim or a substitute for professional care. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a qualified professional.