Do you know of an inspirational BJJ story? I know of one, and I’m going to tell you all about it. Actually, I won’t. I’ll let the person who the story is all about, tell you about his journey. As you read through the incredible BJJ story of Liam Porter, remember that his is just the last one in a long line of incredible instances where Jiu-Jitsu has literally changed the life of someone involved in it. So, read on, then pick your Gi up and head right onto the mats to write your very own incredible BJJ story. It is all about the journey!
“Jiu-Jitsu changed my life” is far more than just a catch phrase. Most people use it very freely in describing the pleasure that training grappling brings them. For some, though, it is a real beacon of hope, something that gives life meaning. For some, the unique combination of the mental and physical BJJ offers, along with the addictiveness and community it brings are precisely the qualities they’ve been looking for. The BJJ story of Liam Porter that we’re conveying today is one of transformation. it is all about the biggest battle you’ll win in your lifetime – the one over yourself. It is about dedicating to something that’ll make you a better version of yourself. Moreover, it is about doing what you love and achieving results in a way that makes you happy.
An Exclusive Liam Porter Interview
Liam Porter is an Australian grappler who has an inspirational story to share. He grew up in foster care, had a brush with addiction and even tried to commit suicide. When he discovered Jiu-Jitsu he weighed nearly 300 lbs. He managed to come down to 172 only to go back up to 250. That’s when Liam decided to take Jiu-Jitsu seriously and turned his life around with the help of the Gentle Art!
Below, Liam is going to tell you everything about himself, his BJJ journey, what it means to him. He also shares his plans for the future, touches on his conditioning routine and shares his nutrition system.
Take it away, Liam!
BJJW: Could you please let the readers of BJJ World who you are and where you’re coming from?
My name is Liam Charles Porter and I’m currently living in beautiful Melbourne Australia.
BJJW: Before sharing your amazing story, could you tell us about your Jiu-Jitsu journey so far (how you started, time training, academy, rank, competitive efforts)?
I started Jiu-Jitsu initially to defend myself as I got into fights a lot. 5 years later I received my Blue Belt from Professor Thiago Stefanutti at Absolute MMA in Melbourne.
I only started taking competitions seriously last year. I was scared to put myself out there for a long time, but thanks to my coaches and supportive team I competed 9 times in 2018.
BJJW: Your BJJ story is as impressive as it gets. How did BJJ impact your life in such a significant way?
BJJ showed me that I can be an athlete, showed me I have worth as an individual. I’m able to express myself in a positive manner, stay sober and out of trouble.
BJJW: How often do you train BJJ during the week? Do you do any supplemental training, or is it just grappling all day long?
I average BJJ 5-6 days a week on top of 3-4 5km runs and Powerlifting routine. Recently started taking swimming seriously, certainly helps with recovery and mobility.
BJJW: What are the main lessons you’ve learned from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?
BJJ instilled honor, discipline, respect, humility, and patience. I have a sense of purpose on the mats and am part of a strong community. Jiu-Jitsu has changed my way of thinking and will of intent. It became a lifestyle.
BJJW: Tell us more about your Jiu-Jitsu training. What are some of your favorite positions/moves? How does a regular training session look at your Academy?
I like to play a top-heavy pressure game that minimizes movement and forces the opponent to fall into traps. Recently experimenting with aggressive attacks from bottom side control and guard.
A regular session starts with warmups and movement drills, followed by the technique of the day, then 5-7 minute rounds of rolling for 30 minutes. We often have all levels of skill and place an emphasis on growing together as a team.
BJJW: Could you outline your basic dieting principles?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is you can’t out-train a bad diet. Calories in, calories out and the correct ratio of macronutrients (protein, fats, carbs) plus regular exercise have helped me tremendously.
I track what I eat and keep regular photos of the progress. Being adequately hydrated is equally important.
I’m proud to say I’ve never missed weight for competition!
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bs_7KtngXMj/
BJJW: Your BJJ story is not just amazing, but also inspirational to a lot of people. Sharing it turns you into a role model for others that need the motivation to start or go back to training. Do you enjoy being such an important positive influence on one people?
Thank you, I’m overwhelmed by the support I’ve received. If someone is inspired by my progress, that motivates me to continue to push my limits further and show that anyone is capable of positive change in their lives.
BJJW: What comes next for Liam, both training and competition-wise?
This year I’m training for several competitions, a marathon, and my first amateur MMA fight. I’m excited to test myself and start a new chapter in my journey.
BJJW: Anything you’d like to share with the BJJ community and people in general that are reading this?
I strongly believe that Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone. My mission is to raise awareness for Mental health in the sport, support underprivileged individuals and those with disabilities to a safe and fun training environment.
In Summary
First of all, a huge thanks to Liam Porter for agreeing to share his story with us. He was nothing but forthcoming in our communication and is a true inspiration to all. For everyone out there not sure about starting BJJ, or worse, thinking about leaving it, read Liam’S BJJ story. You can learn a lot from it, and it may just prove to be the deciding factor for that massive change you’re aiming for!
