Avoid These Five Training Mistakes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training is a challenge to both body and mind. As you develop physical strength and endurance, you must also develop mental toughness. To avoid fatigue and failure as you train and progress, watch for and adjust for these five training mistakes:

Ego – Learn to accept defeat and don’t let your ego stand in your way. You are a student, learn from your mistakes, make adjustments and move on to the next challenge. If you need to tap out, do so. Don’t sacrifice your safety because of your pride. Check your ego, you are training to develop your skills and to learn from your mistakes.

Diet – Don’t underestimate the importance of a healthy balanced diet to support your training and provide energy during long sessions. You need a balance of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates and omega-3 fatty acids to build and repair muscle and provide the necessary nutrients for recovery. You will burn as many as 700 calories during your training sessions, feeding our body will maintain the energy levels you need to excel.

Participate – Don’t be an observer, step up and participate and practice every move and hold and then practice. Learn the movements and watch how others move on the mat so that you can develop your personal style and technique.

Force and Angles – Remember that Brazilian Jiu Jitsu was developed to help the smaller, weaker opponent defeat an opponent who is larger or stronger. To be successful you must understand how physical force, mechanical force and angle of approach allow you to prevail. Your BJJ technique must include proper body alignment and position to maximize your own force and approach as you minimize your opponent’s force and movement.

Commit – Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is challenging and can be intense and occasionally painful. Stick with it, commit to completing your training and advancing through the training and skill levels. Don’t look for or make excuses to avoid class. If you are injured, don’t push yourself and risk further injury, now is the time to step back and observe and learn. Don’t let your training rule your life, learn to balance your personal life and your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training.

To excel in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu requires practice and determination, but don’t forget to enjoy your training and your new BJJ family and friends. Occasionally reevaluate your reasons for training and assess your progress and your goals. Remind yourself why you got involved. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is physically and mentally challenging, but the rewards can far outweigh the demands.