Coach James “300” Foster has some fantastic advice for those of us who practice competition Jiu-Jitsu.
Check it out:
Here are some competition tips that apply whether you’re disappointed in the current state of sport Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions or have just had generally poor experiences as a competitor, I encourage you to take the following actions as complaining online or elsewhere will accomplish nothing as with most things in life:
1. Do not attend or support tournaments in which you don’t like the point system or rule set. Continued support only grows them stronger and gives no incentive for change.
2. Organize and put on a better event that is well run and follows the way you think things should be done. Competition forces other tournaments and promoters to improve their events.
3. Read and understand the rules of the particular event prior to entering because it’s your responsibility. This will not prevent human error on the part of the referee, however it will limit costly mistakes, potential disqualification, or a loss.
4. Train to finish or at least clearly dominate your opponent. If your game consists of playing for points and advantages, putting yourself in subjective positions, or intangible situations, don’t be shocked or outraged when you don’t get the nod.
5. Do not pull guard in fear of your opponent’s guard. In other words, if you do so because you’re afraid you’ll be swept or submitted while attempting to pass, your Jiu-Jitsu isn’t complete.
6. Don’t be lazy, train takedowns as you would any other aspect of your Jiu-Jitsu. If nothing else, train to have a complete knowledge of defending them. Pulling guard shouldn’t be your only option for getting a match to the ground.
7. If you lose, do not make excuses. If a small weight difference neutralizes your Jiu-Jitsu, that’s an issue with poor technique, leverage, or timing. Also, it’s rare to enter a competition 100% healthy and injury free. If you make the choice to compete in such a state that’s on you, and you accept the potential issues that may come with competing in that condition.
8. Train your mind equal to or more so than other aspects of your game. It can be your greatest asset or worst enemy, regardless of how superb your technique is or how greatly you’re prepared physically.
9. If you fatigue too quickly in your first match its due to an adrenaline dump which occurs because of an improper warmup. That “dump” should happen during your warmup if done properly, which will set you up to perform at your best.
10. Be humble in victory as well as defeat. I understand emotions get the better of us all from time to time, however your celebration should not be demeaning to your opponent and your reaction to losing should not portray you poorly. How you handle a loss is equally as important and your behavior during both situations are a direct reflection on your professor, affiliation, and team.
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