Exploring aggressiveness in Jiu Jitsu… Aggression can be seen as a forceful approach to achieving one’s goals, and it’s often seen as admirable. However, it can be inappropriate and even offensive if used in the wrong way. Aggressiveness is a necessity for success in life and on the mats. Let’s take some time to discuss the right and wrong ways of using aggression while training Jiu Jitsu.
One common misuse of aggression is relying on strength instead of technique. We all want to show courage, but substituting strength for technique can lead to disaster; if you’re just looking for strength-based wins, then bodybuilding would be a better path than Jiu Jitsu. Strength should work hand-in-hand with technical skill – it needs to amplify technique rather than replace it.
Another mistake is believing that being aggressive only means being busy. As basketball coach John Wooden said, “Don’t mistake activity for achievement.” Being frantic doesn’t necessarily lead to success – you need to use your strategy aggressively as well. For instance, if I’m trying to pass someone’s closed guard, I might intentionally leave my arm exposed as bait before setting up my pass. That could mean limited movement on my part but a very aggressive strategy overall! Knowing each position’s strengths and weaknesses, plus aggressively looking to exploit those strengths, is another great example of aggressive play without non-stop motion. Moreover, using an aggressive threat of submission or position can open up more opportunities for success in Jiu Jitsu.
To use aggression productively in this art form, you should utilize repetitions aggressively too: training three times a week with five reps in each roll is far more beneficial than just one rep per roll over the same timeframe! On top of that, setting goals is essential – break down skills into attainable pieces and make sure that each session has purpose so there’s no stagnation over time. The best example of this mindset at work is Georges St-Pierre: despite his incredible success he still trains constantly with clear goals set every time he steps onto the mats!
Jiu-Jitsu is not done passively. While strength and movement can be used instead of technique in an aggressive approach, that is not true aggression. To make the most of Jiu-Jitsu, be aggressive in terms of implementing your strategies, setting goals and working to achieve them. Good aggression is found in both difficult and more relaxed rolls; the value of rolling isn’t solely measured by how many times you tap someone out, but by the quality of practice. All in all, aggression has its place in Jiu-Jitsu — use yours strategically!
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