Mom-jitsu: Training Style

One of the hardest things to figure out since I started training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (other than spelling it correctly) is figuring out how to style my half natural/half text-laxed hair to protect against damage and without looking like horrid out of the dojo. Here are a few solutions I have come up with.

1.  Multi-ponytail faux French braids. This one works really well for both my daughter and myself. Many people advise against using rubber bands. I use them but instead of attempting to remove them-which is when damage occurs- I cut or break them to get them out. I figure there is a reason that they sell them by the gazillions. I got the idea for this style from Chocolatehairvanillacare.com.

2.  Pinned under French braid. This works ok but on my hair looked like a hot mess after sweating.

3. Crochet braids with Marley Hair. This is the best option yet. Because of the texture of the added hair, the more weathered the real hair gets, the more natural it looks. I roll the sides and bun the back during training and shake it out when I am finished and it always looks good. Funny thing is, you would expect that it would get worse with time. WRONG-O. The more your natural hairline gets frizzy the more natural it looks!

4. Braid out. This is a good option because it holds during training and- if planned well- can lead to a nice braid out curl style. This photo comes from justgrowalready.com.

I'll add styles as I run accross them but you know I have to give you examples of things that DID NOT work. DON'T try these.

1. Braided updo/bun with added hair.

 It's beautiful. It can't get caught. It's good to go right. NOPE!

This style put's your edges at risk ladies (and gents)! As if the tension on the hairline wasn't bad enough, just imagine trying to escape a choke but you can't because you can feel the hairs pulling. don't do it. On bjiujitsu.blogspot.com, the blogger recounts Nyjah Easton's experience like this:

"I decided to try braids and of course after you get over the week of barely being able to move your head from the tightness freshly done braids and cornrows add, they too would often get caught. I've actually had a full cornrow rip out and pull all of my hair along with it."

Are you serious? No thanks! This may work if you use your own hair and bun it really tight but I haven't tried it so I can't speak on it.

2. Super long box braids/twists...sigh....I'm ashamed to say that I thought this was an option...Bad idea...seriously. They got caught a lot in addition to all issues contained in section NOPE.1

3. Scarf. If it slips off in bed, it WILL slip of on the mat. 'Nough said.


I will update as I find viable options. Deuces!

Burn Bling

Did you know you could buy candles/soaps/potpourri beads and get jewelry inside? How did I miss this and what better way to start videos on the blog? WIN-WIN!  I ordered a Prize Candle and I will be updating soon with the reveal!

Yes- I'm hype...I know.