Tips for Beginners
Be Consistent
Consistency is the key to progress!
For the average person, training 2-3 times a week is more than enough to see steady improvement in your Jiu Jitsu and enjoy the benefits closely associated with the sport, such as weight loss, stress relief, and increased confidence.
To remain consistent, create a schedule for yourself and stick to it—don’t leave it up to chance. If you decide to train every Tuesday and Thursday, then commit to those days with minimal exceptions. This will help keep you engaged, motivated, and connected with your training partners and instructors, enhancing your overall learning experience and growth in Jiu Jitsu.
Focus on Fundamentals
Don't try to run before you know how to walk.
That fancy move you saw on Instagram, don't do it. At the very least, consult your instructor to make sure its safe so you don't hurt your training partners. Mastering the basics in Jiu Jitsu is crucial before moving on to advanced techniques. The fundamentals provide a solid foundation, ensuring that you understand the core principles and movements. This foundation helps prevent injuries and allows you to execute advanced techniques more effectively. Without a strong grasp of the basics, advanced moves can be overwhelming and less effective. By focusing on the fundamentals first, you build the necessary skills and confidence to progress safely and successfully in your Jiu Jitsu journey.
Stay Humble
Nobody likes a know it all, especially when they don't know it all.
Humility allows you to accept feedback, learn from others, and recognize that there's always room for improvement. If your ego doesn't allow you to be vulnerable, you wont grow. The ceiling is low for someone who isn't willing to acknowledge and address their shortcomings, in Jiu Jitsu and in life. Try remaining open to new techniques and perspectives from the instructors and higher ranks in your school.
Practice Patience
It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
Progress in Jiu Jitsu takes time. Be patient with yourself and understand that setbacks and plateaus are part of the process. Mastering techniques while building mental and physical strength doesn't happen overnight. I've been training Jiu Jitsu for nearly 16 years and I'm still adjusting techniques I've been doing since year one. Perseverance through challenges and setbacks is essential for growth. By pushing through tough times, you build resilience, improve your skills, and unlock your true greatness. Don't let temporary difficulties stop you from achieving long-term success.
Take Care of Your Body
Remember, you are what you eat!
If you fuel your body with junk, don't be surprised if your performance feels like, well, junk. Eating well is crucial to performing well on the mat. So, swap those chips for some veggies and watch your game improve!
Listen to your body, address injuries promptly, and prioritize self-care to maintain peak performance and longevity in your training journey.
Ask Questions
Need Help?
Don't hesitate to ask your instructors for help, clarification, or guidance. They're there to support your learning and growth. Asking questions shows your commitment to improving and ensures you understand techniques correctly. Remember, everyone starts as a beginner, and seeking help is a sign of dedication, not weakness.
