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When starting your jiu jitsu training, the vast array of techniques and positional situations you have to process is huge. You will constantly be put in bad positions by your classmates and you will be stuck and unable to get out. Of course this eventually leads to submission.
Don't stress too much - you can survive!
The neat thing about jiu jitsu is that it is a great equalizer. The big and strong may actually be at a disadvantage against a skilled jiu jitsu practitioner. The question is how do you last long enough in training to get your skills up?
The key is right there for anyone to take: learn the basics. If you can get down the jiu jitsu fundamentals, you can typically prevent yourself from getting in bad spots but also handle yourself if you do end up there. You'll want to practice these at home and reinforce them during your usual classroom time. After a month or so you'll have a skill level that'll let you focus on learning and applying your newly taught techniques instead of constantly getting stuffed.
What are the important basics?
Hip Escapes
On the technique side, this is the grand daddy of jiu jitsu basics. During training you should always have "loose hips". Being able to transition from side to side and use your hips for generating leverage is critical. This cannot be said enough times. Being able to hip escape (aka shrimping) is important in creating space between you and your opponent for defense and attacks.
Breathing
Another basic you need to get down is breathing. If you tire out in training or a real life fight, you're dead. You CAN relax and you need to slow down and breathe while you work your game. If rolling/sparring becomes a sprint for you, you'll be done in 30 seconds. In a typical 5-7 minute training round, that would be miserable! So slow down, take your time, breathe deeply, and relax.
Open Mind
Many people come to train thinking that their strength is going to enable them to beat all challengers. This type of person quickly finds out they're wrong when some lightweight with a bit of training demolishes them. To speed up your learning curve, embrace this new way of doing things with an open mind. Practice the techniques using perfect form and with minimal strength. Know that you are going to have a learning curve and that achieving competency takes time.
Ego
The majority of BJJ students are men and of course have good sized egos. Leave it at the door. You must really enjoy the journey of learning jiu jitsu and take in all of the nuances. If you insist on being the guy that never taps, you will get hurt much more often. And of course if you are injured you won't be able to train. Be open to losing while in class. Help your classmates to get better. Enjoy the journey. Become a family!
Of course these basics aren't a complete list of everything you need to master while training. But they provide a fantastic start for your journey. Come to class eager to learn, help your classmates, and train with enthusiasm. This is an really special martial art and it will change your life - if you allow it.
Don't stress too much - you can survive!
The neat thing about jiu jitsu is that it is a great equalizer. The big and strong may actually be at a disadvantage against a skilled jiu jitsu practitioner. The question is how do you last long enough in training to get your skills up?
The key is right there for anyone to take: learn the basics. If you can get down the jiu jitsu fundamentals, you can typically prevent yourself from getting in bad spots but also handle yourself if you do end up there. You'll want to practice these at home and reinforce them during your usual classroom time. After a month or so you'll have a skill level that'll let you focus on learning and applying your newly taught techniques instead of constantly getting stuffed.
What are the important basics?
Hip Escapes
On the technique side, this is the grand daddy of jiu jitsu basics. During training you should always have "loose hips". Being able to transition from side to side and use your hips for generating leverage is critical. This cannot be said enough times. Being able to hip escape (aka shrimping) is important in creating space between you and your opponent for defense and attacks.
Breathing
Another basic you need to get down is breathing. If you tire out in training or a real life fight, you're dead. You CAN relax and you need to slow down and breathe while you work your game. If rolling/sparring becomes a sprint for you, you'll be done in 30 seconds. In a typical 5-7 minute training round, that would be miserable! So slow down, take your time, breathe deeply, and relax.
Open Mind
Many people come to train thinking that their strength is going to enable them to beat all challengers. This type of person quickly finds out they're wrong when some lightweight with a bit of training demolishes them. To speed up your learning curve, embrace this new way of doing things with an open mind. Practice the techniques using perfect form and with minimal strength. Know that you are going to have a learning curve and that achieving competency takes time.
Ego
The majority of BJJ students are men and of course have good sized egos. Leave it at the door. You must really enjoy the journey of learning jiu jitsu and take in all of the nuances. If you insist on being the guy that never taps, you will get hurt much more often. And of course if you are injured you won't be able to train. Be open to losing while in class. Help your classmates to get better. Enjoy the journey. Become a family!
Of course these basics aren't a complete list of everything you need to master while training. But they provide a fantastic start for your journey. Come to class eager to learn, help your classmates, and train with enthusiasm. This is an really special martial art and it will change your life - if you allow it.
About the Author:
While John normally sells for car dealer Houston, he loves to practice martial arts and lives that passion. Just remember to give him a shout if you are ever looking for used cars in Houston!
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