You Don’t Need More Time. You Need Better Time.
Justin Edel Justin Edel

You Don’t Need More Time. You Need Better Time.

“I’d love to train… I just don’t have time.” It’s the most common thing I hear at Forged Jiu Jitsu in Ozark. But after having this conversation with families across Ozark, Nixa, and Springfield, I’m starting to believe the issue isn’t just scheduling. It’s something deeper — and it’s worth wrestling with.

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“I Don’t Have Time.” The Problem I Keep Running Into
Justin Edel Justin Edel

“I Don’t Have Time.” The Problem I Keep Running Into

Since opening Forged Jiu Jitsu here in Ozark, one conversation keeps repeating itself. I hear it from good people across Ozark, Nixa, Springfield, and the surrounding areas. People who are hardworking, who care about their families, who genuinely want to improve themselves. The words are always a little different, but the meaning is the same.

“I’d love to try it. I just don’t have time.”

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Forged With Intention: Building More Than a Jiu Jitsu Gym
Justin Edel Justin Edel

Forged With Intention: Building More Than a Jiu Jitsu Gym

Forged Jiu Jitsu was never built to be for everyone. It’s a community disguised as a jiu jitsu gym—created for men and women who value discipline, confidence, self-defense, and growth. This week’s post shares lessons from building the academy, trusting the process, and finding balance on and off the mat.

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Would We Recommend Forged Jiu Jitsu?
Justin Edel Justin Edel

Would We Recommend Forged Jiu Jitsu?

Forged Jiu Jitsu in Ozark, Missouri is a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy built on strength, discipline, and community, with a strong focus on practical self-defense for kids and adults.

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Why Jiu Jitsu Might Be Exactly What Middle Age Men Need
Justin Edel Justin Edel

Why Jiu Jitsu Might Be Exactly What Middle Age Men Need

Jiu Jitsu offers more than a workout—it builds strength, discipline, confidence, and community, especially in middle age. At Forged Jiu Jitsu in Ozark, we believe real growth comes from strength under control, shared struggle, and showing up better for the people who matter most. If you’re looking for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu that challenges both body and mind, this might be exactly what you’ve been missing.

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Forged Through Faith: How Losing My Job Set Me Free
Justin Edel Justin Edel

Forged Through Faith: How Losing My Job Set Me Free

In April 2025, I was laid off after a 22-year career with Wells Fargo—a moment that shook my identity, tested my faith, and challenged my sense of security. What started as anxiety and uncertainty became an opportunity to reflect, pray, and listen for direction. Through this journey, I realized that losing my job wasn’t an ending—it was a beginning. Inspired by my love for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and a desire to build community, Forged Jiu Jitsu was born in Ozark, Missouri. This is a story about faith, resilience, and finding purpose after career change. If you’re navigating a life transition, seeking discipline, or looking for a supportive community for yourself or your family, this journey shows how challenges can forge a stronger, more meaningful future.

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A New Year. A New Start. Get Forged Through Jiu Jitsu
Justin Edel Justin Edel

A New Year. A New Start. Get Forged Through Jiu Jitsu

Sometimes the best ideas come from everyday conversations. This post shares how a moment at church highlighted the need for a pressure-free, self-defense focused Jiu Jitsu gym built around discipline, respect, and community.

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