5 Reasons Every Jiu Jitsu Athlete Should Have Injury Insurance.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is an intense and exhilarating martial art that challenges both the body and mind. However, like any sport, it carries a high risk of injury. Whether you’re a seasoned grappler or a newbie on the mats, having injury insurance is a crucial aspect of getting you back on the mats after injury. Supplemental injury insurance (think like AFLAC) provides the injured grappler with the cash they need to get treatment for injuries so that they don’t have to put off medical care. Here are five compelling reasons why every Jiu Jitsu athlete should consider investing in injury insurance for about $25 per month:
1. Injuries Are Inevitable
Injury is an inherent part of BJJ. The sport involves a range of dynamic movements, joint locks, and throws that put considerable strain on the body. It's not a matter of if you’ll get injured, but when. According to studies, BJJ athletes experience injuries at a higher rate than participants in other sports. A personal injury insurance plan, often available for just $25 per month, is a no-brainer. This minimal investment can help cover medical expenses from injuries sustained on the mats. Given the frequency of injuries in BJJ, having this insurance is a proactive measure to ensure you’re financially protected when accidents happen.
2. Indemnity Plans Provide Direct Cash Benefits
One of the standout features of many injury insurance plans is that they are indemnity plans. Unlike traditional health insurance which often deals with direct billing and may involve complex reimbursement processes between insurance companies and medical clinics, indemnity insurance plans send you cash directly based on the schedule of benefits that the insurance plan lists as covered services and conditions. This means that even if you have other insurance coverage, these plans provide additional financial support. You receive the cash payout to cover medical bills, or you can use it as you see fit if there are no immediate medical bills. This flexibility ensures that you’re not left out of pocket or struggling with medical expenses during recovery.
3. Coverage Beyond Your Home State
Many BJJ athletes travel frequently, whether for competitions, seminars, or training camps. One common pitfall of standard health insurance is that it may not cover injuries sustained outside of your insurance network, or home state. Injury insurance plans often provide 24/7 coverage, regardless of your location. This means that whether you’re traveling across the country or in some cases internationally, you’re protected. Knowing that you have coverage no matter where you are gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on your training and performance without worrying about potential medical costs.
4. Comprehensive Coverage for All Activities
Injury insurance plans for BJJ athletes don’t just cover injuries sustained during training or competition. Many of these policies are designed to cover a wide range of scenarios, both on and off the mats. Whether you’re injured while working at your day job, participating in recreational activities, or even during everyday activities, these injury insurance plans offer 24/7 protection. This comprehensive coverage ensures that you’re not left exposed to financial burdens from injuries from BJJ as well as for injuries unrelated to jiu jitsu. These programs provide a valuable safety net that extends beyond your time on the mats, offering reassurance in various aspects of your life.
5. Added Protection with Accidental Death Benefits
Most BJJ athletes focus primarily on the physical aspects of their training but often overlook the importance of life insurance. Many personal injury insurance plans include accidental death benefits, providing an added layer of protection. While the primary function of these plans is to cover medical expenses, the inclusion of accidental death coverage ensures that you and your loved ones are financially safeguarded in the event of a tragic accident. This extra benefit offers peace of mind, knowing that you’re not only covered for medical costs but also have some level of financial support for your family if the unexpected happens.
Conclusion
Injury insurance should be a consideration for every Jiu Jitsu athlete. The nature of the sport makes injuries a common occurrence, and having the right insurance can make a significant difference in managing those injuries effectively. With indemnity insurance plans offering direct cash benefits, coverage that extends beyond your home state, and protection for a variety of activities, injury insurance provides comprehensive support for everyone.
Investing in injury insurance is not just about protecting yourself financially; it’s about ensuring you can continue pursuing your passion for BJJ with confidence without worrying about medical bills if you get hurt. For a small monthly fee, you gain peace of mind and financial protection that can help you focus on what you love most—training and competing in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
