Consistency vs. Intensity in BJJ: Finding the Right Balance
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

Consistency vs. Intensity in BJJ: Finding the Right Balance

Many people come to Jiu Jitsu with expectations about what training looks like. With Jiu Jitsu being a combat sport, it is not unusual for new folks to come in expecting “combat” and bringing intensity to their training that aligns with that expectation. While intensity is an important component of Jiu Jitsu, part of training the sport is about learning when to use your intensity.

Consistency — not intensity — should be the first aspect of your Jiu Jitsu you develop and something you diligently maintain throughout your training. Let’s delve into why consistency matters and how it can significantly impact your progress on the mats.

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Brain Benefits of Training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

Brain Benefits of Training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) is more than just a martial art; it’s a transformative practice that has profound effects on both your body and mind. Beyond physical strength and skill, BJJ delivers a powerful neurochemical workout for your brain. Let’s dive into the science behind the mind-body connection in BJJ and explore the remarkable impact it has on our mental well-being.

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From White Belt to Black Belt: The Role of a Growth Mindset in BJJ
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

From White Belt to Black Belt: The Role of a Growth Mindset in BJJ

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art that challenges both the body and the mind. It requires physical strength, endurance, flexibility, and coordination, as well as mental focus, discipline, creativity, and problem-solving skills. BJJ is also a lifelong journey of learning and improvement, where practitioners constantly face new situations, techniques, and opponents.

However, not everyone approaches BJJ with the same mindset. Some people may have a fixed mindset, believing that their abilities are innate and unchangeable. They may avoid challenges, give up easily, ignore feedback, and feel threatened by the success of others. Others may have a growth mindset, believing that their abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication. They may embrace challenges, persist in the face of setbacks, seek feedback, and celebrate the success of others.

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Choosing the Right BJJ School: A Guide to Finding Your Perfect Match
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

Choosing the Right BJJ School: A Guide to Finding Your Perfect Match

Embarking on a journey into the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is an exciting and rewarding decision. Selecting the right BJJ school is crucial, as it can significantly impact your learning experience and overall enjoyment of the martial art. In this guide, we'll explore key factors to consider when choosing the perfect BJJ school for your training needs.=

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 Essential Equipment for Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Training
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

Essential Equipment for Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) Training

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a dynamic and intricate martial art that focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. Whether you're a complete beginner or transitioning from another martial art, having the right equipment is essential for a safe and effective training experience. Let’s explore the necessary gear needed to start your BJJ journey.

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Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a vehicle for personal growth.
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a vehicle for personal growth.

There’s no shortage of people ready to tell you how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) changed their life, or how it can change the lives of others. If you listen long enough, BJJ will sound like the cure for everything. And while it isn’t a cure for much of anything, it can be a significant engine of change in your life. But you have to train with these changes in mind; nothing will happen automatically.

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"HOW LONG UNTIL I'M GOOD AT JIU JITSU?"
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

"HOW LONG UNTIL I'M GOOD AT JIU JITSU?"

It’s a question I get asked frequently — more often than not by relatively new students with an unrealistic expectation of their ability to absorb and integrate new motor learning. And while it’s a well-meaning question, it’s nearly impossible to answer. What do you mean by good? How often are you training? How quickly are you able to acquire new motor skills?

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FORGET ABOUT TECHNIQUES. FOCUS ON LEARNING SKILLS.
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

FORGET ABOUT TECHNIQUES. FOCUS ON LEARNING SKILLS.

If you’re truly dedicated to improving at a specific physical activity, focusing on skill acquisition is the name of the game. Training for skill acquisition has been a long-established practice in many sports. Unfortunately, modern fighting arts are behind the times when it comes to adopting this approach to learning.

What is the difference between learning a “technique” and learning a “skill”? A skill is an ability to achieve some goal within a given context(s). A technique is a pattern performed absent of any particular context.

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THE SECRET TO GETTING BETTER, FASTER, IN BJJ
Jesse Walker Jesse Walker

THE SECRET TO GETTING BETTER, FASTER, IN BJJ

Most people rely on the brute force method of improving in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ). “Just keep showing up” is the refrain that echoes through the halls of most BJJ academies, and that brute force methodology is reinforced by similar approaches in coaching. With no real structure or methodology to learning, it’s really no surprise that it takes so long to become proficient at BJJ.

The good news is that there is massive room for improvement in the approaches of both students and coaches.

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