Kiaya Jackson is making waves in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and mixed martial arts (MMA). As a black belt under the 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu system, Kiaya has not only honed her skills on the mat but has also become a beacon of inspiration for many aspiring athletes. In this blog post and episode of the Gnar Stool Podcast, we’ll delve into her journey, her training regimen, and her thoughts on the sport.
Early Life and Athletic Background
Kiaya grew up in Mississippi, where she was actively involved in various sports during her high school years, including basketball, track, and softball. Despite her participation in these sports, she always felt a bit like an outsider. This feeling of being different would later shape her unique approach to Jiu-Jitsu.
After high school, Kiaya pursued an engineering degree in college, where she initially stepped away from sports. However, her interest in martial arts was reignited when she began watching UFC fights. This newfound passion led her to a local gym, where she was introduced to Jiu-Jitsu. Initially hesitant, Kiaya was encouraged by a friend to try a class, and despite her first experience being less than favorable, she decided to give it another shot. This decision changed the course of her life.
The Journey into Jiu-Jitsu
Kiaya's entry into Jiu-Jitsu was not without its challenges. Coming from a predominantly black community, she found herself in a sport that is often seen as a predominantly white male domain. However, the welcoming atmosphere at her 10th Planet gym helped her overcome these initial hurdles. The camaraderie and support from her teammates allowed her to embrace her identity within the sport.
Kiaya's dedication and hard work paid off, and she recently earned her black belt—a significant achievement in the Jiu-Jitsu community. This milestone is particularly noteworthy given the limited number of female black belts in the sport. Kiaya credits her coach, Brandon, for his guidance and support throughout her journey, even when he playfully told her she would never receive a black belt.
Training Regimen
Kiaya's training routine is rigorous and well-structured. She typically trains two to three times a day, focusing on both Jiu-Jitsu and strength training. Her mornings start with a 6 a.m. Jiu-Jitsu class, followed by rolling sessions with her training partners. In the evenings, she engages in more intense training sessions, often doing multiple hard rounds.
In addition to her Jiu-Jitsu training, Kiaya emphasizes the importance of strength training. She has a background in fitness and has learned to balance her workouts to ensure she remains energized for her Jiu-Jitsu sessions. Recently, she has been working with a nutritionist to optimize her diet, realizing that she needed to increase her caloric intake to support her training and recovery.
Upcoming Competitions
Kiaya has some exciting competitions on the horizon, including the Medusa event, where she will be competing in combat Jiu-Jitsu. Her experiences in combat Jiu-Jitsu have been electrifying, with memorable matches that showcase her skills and ability to perform under pressure. Kiaya's recent matches have not only highlighted her technical prowess but also her ability to connect with the audience, making her a crowd favorite.
Conclusion
Kiaya Jackson is a remarkable athlete whose journey in Jiu-Jitsu serves as an inspiration to many. Her story is one of resilience, passion, and dedication to the sport. As she continues to compete and grow within the Jiu-Jitsu community, there’s no doubt that Kiaya will leave a lasting impact on the sport and inspire future generations of martial artists. Keep an eye on this rising star as she takes on new challenges and strives for greatness on the mat!
