Demi Lovato has been quite outspoken about her affection for jiu-jitsu among other things. The young pop star has taken a liking to a variety of mixed martial arts and can be seen around the web hitting takedowns on her instructor, working on technique and striking among other things.
“I would say that if you struggle with depression, anxiety, or any other type of stressors in your life, a really great way to get rid of those is through physical exercise and fitness.” Demi told People magazine.
The fitness routine that has her feeling so strong and confident? Mixed martial arts and jiu-jitsu, she tells.
“I first got into jiu-jitsu because I loved watching people grapple,” Lovato says. (Jiu-jitsu focuses on hand-to-hand combat moves and ground work such as grappling, throwing, and pinning.) “I think it’s really cool to learn something that helps you with self-defense.” She adds that she also finds MMA fighting meditative because she’s constantly thinking of ways to attack and defend.”
Lovato — who overcame past issues with bulimia and body image — says exercise is vital to feeling good.. Lovato eventually checked into rehab at age 18 to deal with her eating disorder, cutting and substance abuse issues.
“I work out personally because of the way it makes me feel and the release of serotonin. It’s important to take care of yourself physically but also mentally as well,” she says.
