Episode 138

E138 | Jiu-Jitsu and the Economic Squeeze: Finding Ways to Stay on the Mat

Published on: 26th March, 2026

In this episode, I dive into the current economic challenges affecting the Jiu-Jitsu community; from gym owners and gear manufacturers to the students themselves. I share my personal frustrations with the rising costs of gear, academy fees, and even the gas needed to get to training. We discuss the "economic squeeze" that is forcing many to make difficult decisions about their memberships and the importance of our community banding together to support one another during these times. Whether it’s through bartering services, carpooling, or simply having open conversations with gym owners, I explore how we can ensure that financial constraints don't force us to give up the sport we love.

Key Takeaways

  1. Communicate Before You Quit: If you’re struggling financially, reach out to your instructor or gym owner to discuss alternatives like bartering services or reduced rates before giving up training entirely.
  2. Get Creative with Costs: Consider carpooling to training or looking for used gear and community donations to help manage the rising expenses associated with the sport.
  3. Community Strength is Key: Just as the community supported academies during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s now time for gyms and students to work together and find ways to keep everyone on the mats through this economic squeeze.

Chapters

  1. 00:00 – The Political and Social Climate of the Year
  2. 01:10 – Early Warnings: Preparing for Financial Hardship
  3. 01:58 – The Impact of Tariffs on Gi and Gear Manufacturers
  4. 03:41 – The Struggle for Gym Owners: Rising Overhead and Adjusting Fees
  5. 05:07 – The High Cost of Training: Gear, Gas, and Academy Memberships
  6. 08:15 – Difficult Decisions: When Families Have to Tighten the Belt
  7. 09:47 – The Importance of Community Support and Creative Solutions
  8. 11:21 – Bartering and Communication: Alternatives to Quitting
  9. 13:28 – Reflecting on the COVID Support: Banding Together Again
  10. 15:00 – Final Thoughts and Reaching Out

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David Figueroa-Martinez

Founder, DFM Coaching Bjj

Coach | Writer | Grappler

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About the Podcast

Tapped In: A JiuJitsu Podcast
A Bjj/Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Podcast By DFM Coaching
I am a dedicated practitioner and coach on a mission to help you navigate the complex, rewarding world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Whether you are a White Belt trying to survive your first stripe or a seasoned grappler looking for a competitive edge, I created this show to be your technical and mental mat-side companion.

In every episode of Tapped In, I break down the nuances of submission grappling. I dive deep into the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle, discussing how to overcome mat burnout, manage BJJ injuries, and develop the "black belt mindset" both on and off the mats.

Why Listen to Me?
Beyond my fifteen years on the mats, I’ve had the honor of sharing my philosophy as a recurring guest on BJJ Mental Models and Fighting Matters. I believe in a structured tactical approach and I bring that same level of high-level conceptual analysis to every episode of this show.

The Training Schedule:
I know your time is valuable. That’s why I release three new episodes every week, each designed to fit perfectly into your daily routine. With a runtime of 14–24 minutes, these episodes are built to give you tactical clarity in the time it takes to drive to the academy or finish a warm-up.

If you live for the grind, the flow, and the constant pursuit of the tap, this podcast is for you. Subscribe and let's level up your game, one episode at a time.

About your host

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David Figueroa-Martinez

I’m David Figueroa-Martinez, Jiu-Jitsu black belt, mindset coach, and founder of Tapped In. This podcast isn’t for hype or highlight reels. It’s for grapplers who train with purpose.

I teach structure, not chaos. Mindset, not ego. Progress, not performance.

Through each episode, I share grounded lessons from the mats, the mind, and the moments that shape who we become, as athletes, as leaders, and as people.

I also run DFM Coaching, where I help White and Blue Belts build clarity and structure through personalized systems, and write Choke Point Chronicles, a weekly series diving deep into strategy, growth, and culture in Jiu-Jitsu.

Whether you’re a White Belt looking for direction or a black belt trying to stay sharp without selling your soul, this is where we train the inner game.