Internal Jiu Jitsu uses “The Gentle Art” to explore the human condition, the source of our resistance, and some solutions to our everyday issues.
Applying principles of leverage and giving way, Internal Jiu Jitsu goes beyond the mat to teach the importance of using what you’re given to get what you want — rather than stubbornly insisting on a set path.
You’ll come to understand how you can trick yourself into acting against your own self-interest. Just as your opponent can push or pull you enough to make you think you have him figured out, your body can fool you into a vicious thought loop — interpreting mild palpitations as catastrophe.
Internal Jiu Jitsu is a method of examining your own reactions for what they are and reimagining obstacles as advantages. Intellectually understanding resistance is critical to overcoming it, but practical, physical knowledge beyond intellect will give you the confidence to take bold action.
Internal Jiu Jitsu brings together mind and body, push and pull, and occasionally blurs the line between good and bad.
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: $9.99
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: $9.99
Hardcover: N/A
Amazon Barnes & Noble Bookshop.org
For bulk orders please complete a Bulk Order Form.
Genre: Self-Help & Personal Growth, Martial Arts, Mindfulness & Meditation
ISBN: 978-1-945783-43-2, 978-1-945783-44-9
Publication: May 2025
Length: 156 pages
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“A martial arts book for the modern era, Internal Jiu Jitsu is a bridge between the dojo and the real world that artfully weaves the practice of jiu jitsu with the journey of life. Julio Rivera breaks down the barriers between the physical and mental game so that it’s hard to tell where fight training ends and mental wellness begins.”
– Dave Stern author of Hackproof Your Startup, entrepreneur
“Internal Jiu Jitsu is a handy field guide for facing and managing the many external and self-imposed challenges we face in life, both on and off the mat.”
– Nick Meyer student of Julio’s, owner of Eckhart Beer Co., Brooklyn
“Julio Rivera, NYC martial arts and fitness legend, connects the dots between martial arts and life in Internal Jiu Jitsu — thought provoking, transformative, and eternal.”
– Alex Ecklin 3rd degree BJJ black belt, Masterskya founder
“Internal Jiu Jitsu is not only an honest depiction of what it’s like to live with bipolar disorder, but a story of ongoing resilience relevant to all. As a mental health professional, I recommend Internal Jiu Jitsu to anyone seeking to develop deeper self-awareness in caring for one’s mental well being.”
– Maria Pagan PhD, LCSW, therapist and mental health advocate
“I could not put this book down. Julio’s stories are riveting, and the key takeaways help the reader retain the points made in each chapter. Internal Jiu Jitsu will help guide you as a martial artist and guide you through the steps you need to conquer yourself.”
– Benjamin J. Coleman Music educator, clarinetist, judo black belt
“I highly recommend anyone who trains, has trained, or is an instructor, to please pick up a copy and read Internal Jiu Jitsu from beginning to end.“
– Despina Kallergis Jiu jitsu practitioner
“10/10 recommend — whether you’re into martial arts or just tired of trying to strong-arm your way through everything.”
– Lee Yuzary Licensed clinical social worker, recognized in Marquis Who’s Who (2022)
