BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU is not easy, which is why it is so rewarding to learn. And because our bodies and perceptions are so deeply personal and complex, we have to respect the subtleties and precision of each movement. Do it slow and correct rather than fast and incorrect. You can make it faster once it’s done correctly. BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU is about timing and inches. Smooth is fast.

This is an arguable point but a common scenario: A beginner does a new movement from both sides on their opponent. I understand and get the importance of being ambidextrous. The thing about this is that it is not always realistic that you will learn the move well enough within a ten to fifteen minute time span to seriously understand the move enough on one side to be able to do it correctly on both sides right away. Now of course, if you have extra time after class, go ahead and do as you choose.

Let’s take a look at another topic to consider for the few BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU nerds (hopefully you) regarding learning: note-taking. I suggest taking notes after each class. If you can stay after on a bench and write, or if you can write them while in your car, do it. Even type it in on your phone’s notepad. Any method you use to internalize information is useful. If you take notes then try and write specific details of the techniques you learned. Write about what you liked or did not like; write about what you feel you need to focus on more. Study BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU like you study anything in life you that want to get better at, and be consistent and committed to the task. It’s a lifestyle you are partaking in, not just a hobby, so live richly, live deeply.

Beyond your academy, there are many other tools that can help supplement your learning process. Some people look at YouTube, some learn from DVDs, phone applications, or even look at both pictures and video at blogs. There are plenty of great teachers out there online teaching BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU. But there is no replacement for live instruction. Why? Because when you physically train with another human being, you can ask for help in real time, feel the positions out, and have someone help you adjust your body position when needed.

Private lessons are a great way to get ahead in the art of BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU. Private lessons typically range from approximately $50 to $200 an hour. The price range will usually depend on who the instructor is or what the going rate is within the area at his or her belt level. In some cases it may be random. You have to understand that BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU teachers usually spend a lot of time and money to become what they are, so you are paying for their skills and their strategies.

Make sure you ask your instructor if it is okay. It should not be a problem, but some are picky and take it personally, so it is always a nice gesture to communicate your intentions.

BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU is like anything else in life. Getting better at BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU happens as a result of the quality and quantity of time spent learning—thinking about it while you are doing it, not just going through the motions and hoping it will click.

Come down to Arashi Do and try out one of our great Brazilian programs like Fundamental BJJ, Women’s Only BJJ or Children’s BJJ for ages 4-7 and 8-14.  All those and you get a 30 DAY FREE TRIAL!  What are you waiting for?  Call or text us at 780-220-5425 or email us at myackulic@ArashiDo.com