Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many techniques, positions, and submissions to learn, it’s easy to feel lost or forget what you’ve practiced during class. However, remembering techniques doesn’t have to be a struggle. By incorporating a few effective strategies into your training routine, you can easily remember and master the techniques you’re learning. In this article, we’ll explore several methods to improve retention when training BJJ.
Planning Ahead
Before we go over the strategies below, it is important to note that planning ahead before going to training is a critical step in systematizing your understanding of Jiu-Jitsu. BJJ is a complicated art with many moving parts, and focusing on many things at once can be detrimental to one’s development. Before the class starts, it is a good idea to focus on just a few areas so that you can zero in on your learning. Choose a few positions or techniques and do your best to understand the underlying mechanics as best as possible. Doing this can help you better appreciate the intricacies of the many movements in BJJ. Now, with that out of the way, let’s go over the best ways to help memorize techniques in BJJ.
Tips From Andre Galvao
In this video, BJJ legend Andre Galvao shares his thoughts on how to memorize techniques. He is regarded as one of the best competitors and coaches in history. Here’s his perspective on learning and improving in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Regular Drilling
Drilling is the backbone of learning in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. When you drill a technique repeatedly, you begin to develop muscle memory, which allows you to perform the move instinctively in live sparring or competition. Think of drilling as programming your body to react automatically when certain situations arise. The more you drill, the more ingrained the movement becomes in your muscle memory, making it easier to recall during a match.
For beginners, it’s essential to approach drilling with focus and intention. Instead of mindlessly going through the motions, pay attention to the details of the technique. You’ll retain the information more effectively by actively engaging with the technique as you drill.
It’s also beneficial to drill the same technique from different angles and positions. This approach not only helps you understand the technique better but also prepares you for various scenarios where the move can be applied. Over time, as you drill more, you’ll find that recalling the techniques becomes second nature.
Taking Notes
Another effective method for remembering BJJ techniques is taking notes. After class, write down the techniques you learned, including the details that your instructor emphasized. This process helps reinforce the information in your mind and serves as a reference you can revisit later.
When taking notes, try to be as detailed as possible. Describe the steps of the technique, the key points, and any specific tips your instructor provided. Some practitioners find it helpful to include drawings or diagrams to visualize the movements. While writing things down may seem old-fashioned, the act of translating what you’ve learned into your own words can significantly enhance your understanding and retention of the material.
In addition to technique notes, consider keeping a training journal where you record your progress, challenges, and successes. Reflecting on your training experiences can give you insights into areas where you need improvement and help you track how your understanding of techniques evolves over time.
Watching Video Instruction
In the age of digital media, video instruction is an invaluable tool for BJJ practitioners. Watching videos of techniques can reinforce what you’ve learned in class and expose you to different variations and perspectives.
When watching videos, it’s important to do so actively. Instead of passively consuming the content, pause the video frequently to absorb the details, and try to visualize yourself performing the technique. Many practitioners find it helpful to watch the same video multiple times, each time focusing on a different aspect of the technique, such as hand placement, body positioning, or transitions.
After watching a video, consider drilling the technique with a partner to solidify your understanding. This hands-on practice, combined with visual learning, can greatly enhance your ability to remember and apply the techniques in live situations.
Consistent Training
Consistency is key in BJJ, especially when it comes to remembering techniques. The more frequently you train, the more opportunities you have to practice and reinforce what you’ve learned. Regular training sessions help you stay connected with the material, prevent rust from setting in, and allow you to build on your knowledge progressively.
Inconsistent training can lead to gaps in your understanding and make it harder to retain techniques. If you only train sporadically, you may find yourself forgetting the details of a technique or struggling to execute it correctly. On the other hand, consistent training allows you to revisit techniques regularly, each time refining your execution and deepening your comprehension.
To make the most of your training sessions, set specific goals for each class. For example, you might decide to focus on a particular guard pass or submission during sparring. By setting these goals, you give yourself a clear purpose for each session, which can help you retain the techniques you’re working on.
The Role Of Tapping In Learning
Tapping is an integral part of BJJ, and contrary to what some may think, it’s not just a sign of defeat. In fact, tapping is a powerful learning tool. When you tap to a submission, you’re gaining valuable information about what went wrong and what you need to improve. Embracing the process of tapping allows you to learn from your mistakes and make adjustments.
For beginners especially, it’s essential to view tapping as a positive experience rather than a negative one. Every time you tap, take a moment to analyze the situation. By reflecting on what forced you to tap, you can identify areas where you need to improve and focus on those aspects during your next training session.
Tapping can also help you understand the mechanics of a submission more deeply. For example, if you get caught in an armbar and tap, pay attention to how your opponent applied the submission. This awareness can only make you better appreciate techniques overall.
Integrating Techniques Into Live Sparring
Live sparring is where theory meets practice. While drilling, taking notes, and watching videos are all important, sparring is where you get to apply what you’ve learned in a dynamic, unpredictable environment. To improve your retention of techniques, make a conscious effort to integrate them into your sparring sessions.
Don’t be discouraged if you struggle to apply a technique during sparring. Remember, BJJ is a journey, and progress takes time. Each attempt, whether successful or not, contributes to your growth as a grappler.
Remembering techniques in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By incorporating the strategies we mentioned in this article, you can effectively retain and apply the techniques you learn. The key is to approach your training with focus, intention, and a willingness to learn. With time and dedication, you’ll find that the techniques you’ve learned become second nature, allowing you to progress smoothly on your grappling journey.
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Perhaps all of these might seem daunting and too much for you, so the best way is to try it out. Come down to any of our Evolve MMA outlets and try our complimentary free trial. We promise you that while it may seem daunting at first, but with time and practice, you’ll be able to grasp what many others could as well. So don’t wait any longer, start now!
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