Sometimes it take a bit more than your regular class to get to where you want to be to improve your BJJ game. Here's how BJJ instructionals can help you improve your BJJ.
You’ve been hitting up your BJJ classes regularly, putting in the sweat, the rolls, and maybe even some tears (no judgment—we’ve all been there). But sometimes, despite all that mat time, you feel like you’re not quite leveling up the way you want to. Don’t worry; you’re not alone! While classes are fantastic for getting the basics down and being part of the gym community, sometimes you need a little extra to really sharpen those skills. That’s where BJJ instructionals come in. BJJ instructionals from sites like BJJFanatics.com or Submeta can be the game changer you need to hone in on the missing skills you need or bring something different to your jiu-jitsu game.
The Benefits of BJJ Instructionals
There are many benefits to getting a BJJ instructional. These benefits include the following:
1. Access to High-Level Techniques and Concepts
Imagine having some of the best BJJ minds in the world as your coach. That’s exactly what BJJ instructionals can offer to you! These videos give you access to world-class instructors who break down advanced techniques and concepts that you might not see in your regular classes. Think of it like a VIP backstage pass to the minds of the masters. You can pick up moves and strategies that will leave your training partners wondering where you’ve been hiding all this time.
2. Learning at Your Own Pace
In a typical class, you can’t exactly hit the pause button. Most professors and BJJ coaches are more than happy to answer your question but it’s impossible for them to go through every single detail of the technique all the time during class. But with instructionals, you get the opportunity to rewind, fast forward, pause, and replay to your heart’s content. You get to learn at your own speed, ensuring you really understand each technique. This is perfect for those tricky moves that need a little more time to get right.
3. Diverse Perspectives
We all know every instructor has their own style and approach to teaching. By incorporating instructionals into your training routine, you get exposed to a variety of teaching methods and perspectives. This diversity can be incredibly beneficial because it broadens your understanding of BJJ, helping you find what works best for you. Whether it’s a different take on an armbar or a unique setup for a choke, learning from various instructors can enrich your own style and make you a more well-rounded BJJ practitioner.
4. Targeted Learning
Maybe you’re obsessed with mastering the guard pass, or perhaps your triangle choke needs some serious TLC. Instructionals allow you to focus on exactly what you want to improve. This targeted learning is incredibly efficient because you’re dedicating time to mastering specific areas of your game, turning your weaknesses into strengths.
Integrating Instructionals into Your Training Routine
Alright, now that you’ve learned how BJJ instructionals can help you, here’s how to incorporate them into your training plan:
1. Watch and Take Notes
Be an active learner. Grab a notebook or use a note-taking app and jot down key points, important details, and any “a-ha!” moments you have while watching. This helps reinforce what you’ve learned and gives you something to refer to later.
2. Drilling with a Partner
Learning a new technique is one thing, but making it a part of your game? That’s where the magic happens. Grab a training buddy and drill the techniques you’ve learned from the instructionals. Start slow, focusing on the details, then gradually increase the intensity. This step is crucial for muscle memory. You can find a partner during open mat to train with and work with them.
3. Sparring with Intent
When it’s time to roll, pick a few techniques you’ve been working on and make a conscious effort to use them. Don’t worry about getting it perfect the first time—rolling is all about experimentation and learning. The more you try, the better you’ll understand what works and what needs tweaking.
4. Self-Review and Feedback
You should be recording your own rolls from time to time. Watching yourself in action can be super insightful. Compare what you’re doing to what you’ve seen in the instructionals. Are you missing a detail? Is there a part of the technique that isn’t quite clicking? Self-review is a fantastic tool for self-improvement.
Where to Find BJJ Instructionals
For me, this is the OG BJJ instructional site where every famous grappler has had an instructional. They have instructionals for not only BJJ but also Judo, Wrestling and even for conditioning.
Submeta is a newer instructional site (by new I mean created in like 2020 or 2021) and it is Lachlan Giles.
YouTube of course has a bunch of free resources but you have to be very careful on what you watch and absorb because sometimes people create videos just for views.
Grappler's Guide is another OG site that I've known for a while that also have a collection of great and famous grapplers.
Improving your BJJ Game with Instructionals
BJJ instructionals can be a fantastic way to supplement your regular training, giving you that extra edge you’re looking for. Remember, improvement in BJJ is a journey, not a race. Use every resource available to you, and keep exploring, learning, and growing on the mats.
Question: Have you used instructionals? Which ones are your favorites? What tips do you have for integrating them into your training? Tell me in the comments or of course tell me on Instagram @blackgirlwhitegi_bjj.
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