Often times when we're training Jiu-Jitsu, we want to feel good right away and even more so, we want to maintain that feeling. We'll often negate some of the takes or scenarios that will be good for us longer term for short term rewards.
These are three areas where I think White and Blue Belts can improve.
Viewing Training As Wins/Loses
Your time on the mats should be based around learning. While most lessons are learned truly learned through failure, many of us will discuss our progress in terms of submissions and sweeps acquired. We'll put undue pressure on ourselves to grow and developed faster than possible with our training schedule.
Make bite sized goals that adapt to the player you're going against.
Create smaller goals for yourself. Some Examples
Get to the guard you want.
Fight the grips early.
Don't accept the sweep.
Journal your emotions and thoughts.
Be specific but short.
Review old entries every few months.
Record your rounds.
Rest Rounds
Nothing wrong with it, but if used to avoid training when you're less than optimal, it becomes an issue. If you're like I was, where I was getting 3 maybe 4 days of training in on a good week. You need to maximize the amount of time you have on the mats. I rarely took rounds off and if things got tough, I played defends.
Play Defense/Bottom
Utilize smaller movements.
Conserve your energy.
Focus on frames and protection.
Overusing Strength/Speed
When all things are equal, I use everything at my disposal. On the other hand, if size is in my favor, I slow slow things down and focus on leverage over strength. If I can do the technique slowly, I can do it fast. So during some rounds with less experienced training partners, I play the part of a sloth. My movements will become deliberately slow and don't use a ton strength.
Focus on controls.
Hand/Grip fight.
Slow things down.
Pins and controls.
Use your bodyweight.
I understand that these some of this is simplified, but sometimes that's what we need when we're trying to get better. Overly complicating our approach will only hurt the things what we want to do.
DFM Coaching is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together!
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