As you progress, you’ll realise that each milestone isn’t a final destination but just a checkpoint along a much longer path. You begin to see that every technique you learn reveals several others you haven’t yet mastered. This is, perhaps, the beauty of Jiu Jitsu:
“The more you know, the more you realise how much you don’t know.”
This article will explore how to become more familiar and comfortable with your practice while acknowledging that true mastery is still a distant horizon. Whether in your first few months of training or just steps away from your next belt, there’s always more to learn and room to grow. Let’s dive into the art of Jiu Jitsu together and embrace the endless journey of discovery and improvement.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) belts typically progress from white, blue, purple, brown, to black
Achieving a blue belt can take anywhere from 1 to 3 years of consistent training
The Beginning: Stepping onto the Mats
My journey began with a sense of trepidation, stepping onto the mats for the first time with a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The unfamiliar environment, filled with seasoned practitioners executing intricate techniques easily, was inspiring and intimidating. Yet, the supportive nature of the Jiu Jitsu community quickly alleviated my apprehensions, assuring me that every expert was once a beginner.
From the very first class, I was drawn in by the complexity and depth of the art. Learning the basic positions and movements felt like unlocking a new form of communication, where each position told a story and every transition held a lesson. It wasn’t just about physical prowess but a mental challenge, requiring patience and a willingness to embrace vulnerability.
My initial goal was simple: survive each class and start understanding the foundational concepts. The idea of mastering even one technique seemed distant and daunting. However, the once overwhelming puzzle pieces began to fit together with every practice session. I started to appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship needed to execute techniques effectively and the importance of drilling fundamentals.
Despite the occasional frustration of not getting a move right or being submitted repeatedly, there was a profound sense of accomplishment in small victories. Each session became a stepping stone, gradually building my confidence and familiarity with the intricacies of Jiu Jitsu. Although the path ahead was long, the initial steps on the mats laid a critical foundation for my journey, teaching me resilience, humility, and the joy of continuous learning.
Consistency is Key: Maintaining Regular Practice
When I first stepped onto the mats, I quickly learnt that consistency would be my greatest ally. Jiu Jitsu, much like any other demanding discipline, requires a commitment to regular practice. It’s not just about showing up; it’s about showing up repeatedly, even when motivation is low and the body is sore. Every class, every roll, every drill brings me one step closer to my goals, reminding me that progress is a marathon, not a sprint. That sense of routine builds not just physical skill but mental resilience as well.
Developing a consistent training schedule was challenging at first. We all have lives outside of our passions. In my case, I work full time over the other side of the city and have split custody of the kids and a new partner.
One piece of advice that resonated with me was the importance of tracking consistency. Keeping a training journal where I documented sessions, techniques learned, and personal reflections helped me retain information and recognise patterns in my training. It provided a clear visual of my journey, highlighting my advancements and areas needing improvement.
Fall down seven times, get up eight.
– Japanese Proverb
Moreover, seeking regular feedback from my coaches and training partners has been invaluable. Constructive criticism might sting, but it’s crucial for growth. By consistently engaging with my Jiu Jitsu family, I’ve been able to refine my techniques and strategies, making incremental improvements that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.
Ultimately, consistency isn’t just about physical presence; it’s about mental engagement and a willingness to embrace the grind. Each mat session adds to a rich tapestry of learning, an ongoing narrative of perseverance. As I edge closer to earning my blue belt, I remind myself that consistency will remain my steadfast companion, guiding me through each stage of this enriching journey.
Overcoming Plateaus: Pushing Through Challenges
It’s no secret that progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn’t linear. Often, you might feel like you’re stagnating, caught on a plateau with no clear way forward. I’ve had my share of those disheartening weeks where my growth seemed to halt, each roll reflecting the same shortcomings. Yet, each plateau is a lesson in disguise.
During these times, mental strength and perseverance become paramount. You must remind yourself that everyone faces these hurdles. Some of the most accomplished practitioners have waded through seemingly endless periods of stagnation. To push through, I’ve found it helpful to break down my goals into more manageable milestones. Celebrating these small victories – perfecting a sweep or finally escaping a troublesome guard – provides the much-needed motivation to keep going.
For example – last year, I attended a John Wills seminar – in which one of the main drills we did was a Darce, ‘Marce’, Anaconda flow. For the next year, I repeatedly tried implementing them during the roll in the intermediate classes and open mats. After about nine months, I started to hit them! I still suck at finishing them – but it’s getting there! In this year’s seminar, he taught us a sweep from top control over turtle – and guess what – any opportunity I get, I am trying to get the sweep.
This is not meant to be focus in exclusion of anything else, but simply choosing one or two things to practice, track and celebrate improvement on.
Ultimately, the journey through each plateau shapes your resilience and determination. Every challenge conquered, every skill refined, brings you one step closer to becoming a better grappler and a stronger individual. Remember, the struggle is a crucial part of the process, and each obstacle surmounted is a testament to your unwavering spirit.
The Importance of Sparring: Learning from Every Roll
Sparring, often referred to as “rolling” in Jiu Jitsu, is where theory meets practice, and the intricacies of the art form unfold. I remember my first few rolls vividly; they were a whirlwind of confusion, excitement, and a dash of nervousness. Each sparring session since then has provided a uniquely humbling experience, mirroring my progress and areas needing improvement.
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned from sparring is that it’s not about winning or losing but learning. Every roll is an opportunity to test techniques under pressure, to see what works and what doesn’t. It’s like a live-action puzzle where pieces constantly shift, demanding creativity and adaptability. The beauty of sparring lies in this dynamic nature; what might work flawlessly in one session could fail spectacularly in the next, urging a deeper understanding and refinement of the techniques.
Moreover, sparring teaches resilience. There have been many moments when I was stuck in seemingly inescapable positions, feeling the weight of my partner’s control. These situations, challenging as they are, have sharpened my defensive skills and instilled a calmness under pressure. As Roger Gracie emphasises, building a solid defence is crucial. Surviving and escaping tough spots boosts physical capability and fortifies mental toughness, which is invaluable both on and off the mats.
I get beaten. A lot. And that is fine. Intentional even – I would prefer to roll with the senior belts, who can both allow you to get through their defences to practice attacking and happily demolish you with pressure to force you to get comfortable and try to escape. I normally don’t!
Another critical aspect of sparring is the feedback it provides. After every roll, I like to take a moment to reflect on my performance. What techniques did I attempt? Which ones succeeded or failed? How did my partner respond? Recording and reviewing videos of my sparring sessions has become an essential part of my training routine. This practice allows me to analyse my movements, spot patterns, and make necessary adjustments, ensuring a continuous learning process.
However, perhaps the most enriching part of sparring is its connection with training partners. Each role is a shared journey, a mutual challenge where both individuals push, test, and ultimately help each other grow. Learning from every role means not only improving my own game but also contributing to the betterment of my partners. This communal growth embodies the spirit of Jiu Jitsu, reinforcing the notion that we rise by lifting others.
Mental Toughness: Staying Motivated and Focused
I have had a few injuries already. I will no doubt have a few more, and I have had more than a few days where my body didn’t feel like going to training. However – overtraining notwithstanding – my ‘head’ has always been keen. Even when I feel physically or mentally ‘down’, I have always looked forward to a good training session.
Despite the occasional bumps and bruises, I’ve learned that pushing through these lows and showing up on the mats is often the best remedy. Every training session, even the difficult ones, brings a sense of accomplishment and the reassurance that progress is being made, however incremental it seems. There’s something deeply satisfying about mastering a technique or overcoming a challenge that once seemed insurmountable.
During these trying moments, I’ve appreciated the mental toughness Jiu Jitsu instils. The discipline to keep going, especially when every fibre of your being is urging you to take a break, nurtures a resilience that permeates other aspects of life. Each session teaches me something new about my physical and mental limits and, more importantly, how to surpass them.
Additionally, injuries and setbacks have taught me the value of listening to my body and the importance of recovery. Rest is not a weakness; it’s a strategic pause, a time to rebuild and return stronger. Balancing hard work and smart rest has been a crucial part of my journey towards my blue belt.
In sharing my journey, I hope to convey that each step, each small victory, and each setback is an integral part of the process. The beauty of Jiu Jitsu lies not just in the physical prowess it develops but in the mental fortitude it fosters. As I look ahead, eagerly anticipating the next stripe and belt, I remind myself this is just the beginning. There is a vast and deep ocean of knowledge yet to explore, and every day on the mats is a new adventure.
Mental Health: Working on staying engaged beyond disorder
Some of you may have read previous articles where I talked about my ongoing therapy – specifically, my dissociative personality disorder. Essentially, this is my learned response of ‘stepping outside of my body’ when stressors come on me, generally emotionally.
Jiu Jitsu has allowed me to turn towards and embrace this discomfort progressively. I have found myself at certain points (under heavy pressure from a big guy!) where I start dissociating from my physical body – ‘switch off’ and ‘sit’ the rest of the roll out, or just let myself get submitted.
Now, I am learning to stay present, breathe, work through the discomfort, and figure a way out of it. Oddly enough – the ability to do this while being physically pressured has also helped me do the same thing when the pressure is emotional.
The parallels between the physical and emotional realms of Jiu Jitsu are astonishing. Each time I leave the mat, drenched in sweat and often nursing a few bruises, I am acutely aware of how these physical trials mirror my daily life struggles. During these rolls, where I’m faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges, I realise the importance of persistence and a calm mind. The ability to pause, assess, and strategize is invaluable in Jiu Jitsu and life.
Embracing Humility: Learning from Mistakes
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is embracing failure. Every failed sweep, every submission I couldn’t escape from, progressively taught me patience and resilience. It’s easy to get disheartened when you’re trapped in an uncomfortable position, but it’s in these moments that true growth happens. Reflecting on these experiences, I often find that the discomfort of being out of my comfort zone is where the real magic. It reminds me of the strength I have within, urging me to push through, grow, and ultimately become better both on and off the mat.
Embracing a growth mindset has been transformative. When things don’t go as planned, instead of seeing it as a defeat, I now view it as an opportunity to learn and adapt. This shift in perspective has been crucial in helping me progress towards my blue belt and enhancing my everyday life. By keeping a training journal, I document my sessions, techniques learned and moments of personal insight. This practice of self-reflection allows me to acknowledge my progress while continually seeking areas for improvement.
Physical Conditioning: Strength and Flexibility
Physical conditioning is a cornerstone of my Jiu Jitsu journey. It’s not merely about surviving the rigorous rolls but thriving and excelling in every session. When I first started, I quickly realised that my fitness level was only a starting point. Like many martial arts, Jiu Jitsu demands raw strength and a nuanced blend of power, agility, and resilience. This sport pushes every muscle in ways I hadn’t anticipated, from the explosive transitions to the prolonged holds that test even the steadiest grip.
I have lifted weights on and off for most of my life; in addition my years of Tai Chi, I have been aware of and remained ‘relatively’ flexible. However, nothing could have prepared me for the intense physical demands and mental challenges of Jiu Jitsu.
As I immersed myself deeper into Jiu Jitsu, each training session pushed me beyond my comfort zone, forcing me to confront my limitations. The complexity of techniques and the necessity for precise movements required a level of focus and discipline that was humbling and invigorating. I quickly realised that while my previous fitness routines provided a solid foundation, Jiu Jitsu demanded more – strength, agility, balance, and resilience.
Setting Goals: Paving the Way to Blue Belt
I am realistic. Not every grading results in another stripe or belt. I have ‘dropped’ a grading before – and quite possibly won’t get my blue belt at the next. That’s fine. Jiu Jitsu is probably one of the slowest martial arts regarding the progression of belts.
Setting realistic goals is paramount as I navigate my Jiu Jitsu journey. While it’s tempting to focus solely on earning that next stripe or belt, it’s crucial to remember that progress in Jiu Jitsu is far from linear. Embracing the unpredictability of the journey allows me to set achievable and meaningful milestones. These can range from mastering a particular technique, improving my defence – inspired by the wisdom of Roger Gracie – or simply dedicating myself to consistent training. Each small victory, whether a successfully executed move or a hard-fought roll, becomes a building block on the path to greater accomplishments.
Competition goals also play a significant role in my growth. Entering a tournament might seem daunting, but it’s an invaluable experience that tests my skills under pressure. Competing pushes me out of my comfort zone, forces me to adapt quickly, and sharpens my techniques. Win or lose, the lessons learned in competition extend far beyond the medals; they influence my overall approach to training and my understanding of Jiu Jitsu.
Ultimately, it’s about setting goals that encourage continuous improvement while acknowledging the unique challenges that come with this martial art. I keep motivated and engaged by focusing on my progression and celebrating personal achievements. The goal is not just to achieve the blue belt this year but to relish every step of the way, understanding that each training session each challenge overcome, is a testament to my growth and dedication.
Patience and Perseverance: Trusting the Process
Reflecting on my journey so far, one thing becomes abundantly clear: patience and perseverance are not just virtues but necessities in Jiu Jitsu. There are moments when progress feels elusive, where the techniques I’ve drilled countless times seem to escape me at the crucial moment. In these moments, I remind myself to trust the process to believe that each stumble is a stepping stone towards improvement.
Progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is far from linear. I’ve had weeks, even months, where it felt like I was stuck at the same level, unable to advance. During these plateaus, it’s easy to feel frustrated and disheartened. However, these periods are often where the most significant growth happens, albeit beneath the surface. It’s about pushing through these challenges and committing to consistent, deliberate practice.
Seeking regular feedback from coaches and more experienced training partners has been invaluable. Their insights have often illuminated subtle adjustments I can make, helping me refine my technique and approach. This continual learning and adaptation process embodies the growth mindset essential to thriving in Jiu Jitsu. It’s not just about achieving the next belt but about savouring the journey and the incremental improvements along the way.
Setting short-term and long-term goals has also been crucial to my development. Celebrating small victories, like perfecting a new technique or surviving a tough spar, has motivated me. These milestones remind me of my progress and fuel my commitment to the art.
Ultimately, embracing patience and perseverance means trusting the process and understanding that each training session, each setback, and each triumph are integral parts of the journey. As I work towards my blue belt, I remain mindful that this path requires dedication and an unwavering belief in my capacity to grow and improve.
Future Aspirations: Looking Beyond the Blue Belt
As I am on the cusp of earning my blue belt, it’s impossible not to dream about what lies beyond. The blue belt is often heralded as the entryway to truly understanding Jiu Jitsu, where foundational skills are honed, mistakes from the white belt days are rectified, and the journey toward mastery begins in earnest. Once donned, the blue belt represents an evolving challenge: a commitment to a deeper level of learning, adjusting strategies, and embracing a more analytical approach to each roll.
While my immediate goal is to secure my blue belt, I’m acutely aware this achievement signifies just the beginning. I aspire to develop a rock-solid defence, mastering escapes from various positions. This will bolster my confidence and provide a sturdy platform to launch my offensive game. I am particularly excited about immersing myself in the intricate web of techniques, from sweeps to submissions, and refining my approach to each. The complex movements and strategies that once seemed daunting are now slowly unveiling their secrets, layer by layer.
Another aspiration is to deepen my understanding of the philosophical and mental aspects of Jiu Jitsu. Beyond the physicality, this martial art promotes a growth mindset, teaching patience, resilience, and humility. Each session on the mats is an opportunity to embody these values, confronting personal limits and pushing beyond them. My encounters with frustration, failure, and triumph weave together, forming a tapestry of personal growth that extends well beyond the dojo.
Finally, I envisage contributing to the Jiu Jitsu community as I progress. Whether mentoring new white belts, sharing insights, or fostering a supportive environment, being part of others’ journeys is incredibly rewarding. The sense of camaraderie and shared purpose within our community is profound, and I aim to nurture and strengthen it. Ultimately, the journey through the belts, towards the coveted black belt, is not solely about personal accolades but about growing alongside others, enriching our collective experience in this beautiful, challenging, and endlessly fascinating martial art.