Finding Your Path: BJJ, Muay Thai, or MMA?

One of the most common questions I hear from new students is: "Should I start with Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, or MMA? Striking or grappling?"

It's a great question. And the answer isn't what you might expect.

Start With Your Goals

The real question isn't "Which is better?" It's "What are you trying to achieve?"

Are you here for fitness and personal growth? This group is most of us. My advice is: pick the discipline you genuinely enjoy. If you love it, you'll show up. If you show up, you'll transform. Simple as that.

Is self-defense your priority? Then you need both, Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Real confrontations don't respect weight classes or rule sets. At Chicago MMA, that means training Muay Thai for striking and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for grappling. You'll learn to defend yourself standing up and on the ground.

Do you want to learn MMA? Here's what many people don't realize: MMA isn't where you start—it's where fundamental skills in both striking and grappling come together. Trying to learn MMA without understanding basic striking mechanics and grappling positions is like trying to study physics before you can read or do math. You need the alphabet before you can write sentences. Build your foundations first in Muay Thai and BJJ, then integrate them.

Do you want to become a professional fighter? The smallest segment of the population. Then ask yourself—in what sport? If your dream is to become a champion in Muay Thai, specialize in Muay Thai. If you want to be a world-class grappler, dedicate yourself to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Mastery requires focus.

This Is a Journey, Not a Sprint

Here's what I've learned in over 25 years of training: martial arts isn't about reaching a destination. It's about the person you become along the way. Every class teaches you something—about leverage, timing, resilience, humility. About yourself.

Some days you'll feel like a champion. Other days you'll get submitted by someone half your size. Both are essential. Both are gifts.

The students who succeed aren't always the most talented. They're the ones who keep showing up. Who embrace the journey. Who find joy in the process.

So which martial art should you choose? Start with your goals. Commit to the fundamentals. Show up consistently. And remember—this is a lifelong journey of self-discovery and joy.

Now the question becomes: To Gi or Not To Gi? That is the real question.