Please be acutely aware that this article is not and should not be interpreted as a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment. To ensure your safety and well-being, only practice BJJ under the careful guidance of a trained and qualified instructor.

By reading this article, you acknowledge that the use of the information is at your own risk. The author, publisher, and any affiliates disclaim any liability for injury or damage that could result from the use or misuse of the techniques discussed.

In no event shall the author or publisher be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence, or other torts, arising out of or in connection with the use of the article or the contents of the article. The author and publisher provide no warranty, expressed or implied, and all information is offered on an "as-is" basis.

I’m scared to ask but I keep hearing it from more people every day! Should I get choked out and be put to sleep just to see what it’s like? I hear that there is a sense of accomplishment when this happens. A rite of passage per se’. I hear stories of that time when a student thought they were ok and the next thing you know they wake up. Oddly enough I hear it’s a euphoric experience.. I am not sure if at all this is a good idea. In fact it seems to be a horrible idea.

OK!!! FIRST AND FOREMOST. Lets make sure we understand a few things...

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling-based martial art renowned for its effective ground fighting techniques and submission holds, including various chokes. Amongst the most common chokes are the rear-naked choke and the triangle choke. By design, these techniques can be immensely powerful; however, they also carry inherent risks that practitioners should be aware of.

Chokes in BJJ are categorized into two main types: blood chokes and air chokes. Blood chokes apply pressure to the sides of the neck, squeezing the carotid arteries, and thereby reducing or cutting off blood flow to the brain. On the other hand, air chokes impact the windpipe, obstructing breathing. Both types of chokes, if applied with precision, can lead to rapid unconsciousness. While the prospect of rendering someone unconscious may sound alarming, in the controlled environment of a BJJ academy, this risk is usually well-managed. However, it's crucial to recognize the potential hazards.

WHY YOU SHOULD ALWAYS TAP EARLY!!!

The primary risk of being choked unconscious is brain damage, caused by an insufficient supply of oxygen to the brain. The brain is highly sensitive to oxygen deprivation, and even a brief lack of supply can result in injury. This is why the culture of "tapping out," or submitting when in a compromising position, is so deeply encouraged. It's a safety valve designed to prevent serious harm.

Understanding and recognizing the signs of unconsciousness from a choke is vital. These include the practitioner going limp, ceasing to struggle, or not responding to verbal cues. If someone is choked unconscious, it's important to release the choke immediately and assess their condition. Returning them gently to a supine position and ensuring they have a clear airway are the first steps I have seen happen from time to time (this is not medical advice). Typically, consciousness returns within a few seconds, but if there is any doubt about their condition, medical help should be sought without delay (highly recommended).

There is always a person that I imagine in every academy that has to push the limits and see how far they can take it. We all want to see how far we can last before we have to tap. Is this a good or bad idea? At what point do we cross the blurred lines of practicing safe? That being said, there’s value in learning how to swim in deep waters.

Training safely in BJJ involves several key factors. Practitioners should learn and master proper choking techniques under the guidance of qualified instructors to ensure they're applying them correctly. Effective communication with training partners is also essential; there should be mutual trust and an understanding that either person will tap out when necessary, and their partner will respect the submission immediately. Furthermore, familiarity with one's own limits—and respecting those—can help mitigate the risk of accidents on the mats.

Here is a scenario: you take your opponents back; he is a higher rank than you. He doesn't want to tap for whatever reason (ego, self confidence or stupidity). The class is rather large (and your professor happens to be coaching another set of students) and you put him to sleep. You're not sure however that he is asleep and squeezed tighter, he goes limp. Let's take it further…. He doesn't respond right away to being revived…

Maybe some students don’t know or haven't been instructed when to tap. Maybe they think they can hold the line a bit more than they are truly able to and in fact this could be why people get injured more than not. Should there be a mandatory class that literally has the professor choke each student out or at least to a critical point where they must

tap or fall asleep. YES/NO?

Being told how to tap is pretty casual “hey white belt” if you feel your in danger, just tap or say tap”

Getting choked to unconsciousness is never fun, or is it? Oh, and don't forget that crazy noise you hear when the last second of the choke happens...similar to when neo is released from the matrix… “ZZzzZZzzZZZzooooUUuUuHHHhHhhhh”

Choking is simulating murder, correct? If a police officer sees you doing this to another person could you be charged with attempted murder? I am not an attorney and I don't know the legal answer but I imagine I would be arrested (or praised if I were on Instagram holding a person who just tried to rob someone) just saying...

Does your Jiu Jitsu professor go over this in class while teaching this to you? I feel like it could be important.

Becoming accustomed to stressful situations is the key to success in Jiu Jitsu across all arenas whether it be on IBJJF approved mats, or the mean streets of whatever dive bar you picked a fight in. Being able to identify when a strangle will put you out, and staying calm as your air supply is dwindling or when the blood stops feeding your Jiu Jitsu addicted brain is the key to turning a shit situation into a win.

What is the best way to approach this? Within reason, I think it’s important to discover your limits. Having an instinctual reference will help you make better tactical decisions in the heat of the moment when someone has a deep rear naked strangle or Bow & Arrow slapped on is standard. Being able to know how many seconds you have before lights out can help you to create the fastest way to get out or make the decision to submit. The other side of the coin is when you don't know how deep the choke is and all of the sudden its tunnel vision time.

In summary, while the risk of getting choked unconscious in BJJ is present, it can be managed through educated practice, respect for partners, and adherence to the ethos of tapping out. The priority in training should always be the safety and health of all participants, maintaining BJJ as an enriching and sustainable combat sport.

Tap Often and Tap Early (always be safe),

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is more than just a martial art—it's a community built on respect, discipline, and continuous learning. For BJJ students, the dojo is a sanctuary where they hone their skills under the guidance of their professors.

In this article, we'll explore the delicate balance between respectful learning and potentially disruptive behavior in BJJ classes. Both may be open to interpretation. From understanding the instructor's point of view to examining proper dojo protocol as well as learning culture, we'll provide insights on how to tackle the desire to work on different techniques without stepping out of line.

The Significance of Respecting the Curriculum

Some instructors invest significant time in developing a curriculum that caters to the collective progression of their students. Others may simply come up with technique on the fly (I'm not naming anyone in particular). Straying from the designated lesson plan can create a ripple effect, impacting not just the student deviating from the plan but also their classmates. When one student shifts focus, it can distract or even hinder others who are trying to grasp the concepts being taught.

Balancing Personal Growth and Guidance

BJJ encourages personal growth. Students choose paths within the art that best align with their physical capabilities and interests. However, the structured environment of a BJJ class is there for a reason. It ensures that all students have a solid grasp on fundamental principles before branching into more complex techniques. Personal exploration should enhance, not replace, the progression through the BJJ belt system that your professor has designed. As time passes its know you rely less on your professor and more on your experience and time on the mat.

Open Mat Sessions: A Time for Exploration

One of the best times for students to work on different techniques is during open mat sessions. Unlike structured classes where a curriculum is followed, open mats lack formal instruction, offering practitioners the freedom to drill or spar as they see fit. These sessions are perfect opportunities for students to exchange knowledge and try out moves that intrigue them, without disrupting the structured teaching environment.

Seeking Permission and Feedback

If you're eager to explore different techniques, consider discussing this with your instructor if you are going to do this during the technique portion of class. Asking for permission shows respect and opens the door for constructive feedback. Instructors can provide guidance or even adjust future lessons to incorporate other techniques the class has shown interest in.

Impact on the Learning Environment

In- Jiujitsu classes should foster an environment that supports learning and improvement for all students. When an individual diverges from the class focus, it potentially disrupts the harmony of the group learning dynamic. Following the class plan ensures that everyone moves forward together, which could be undermined if multiple students are working on different techniques.

Incorporating Alternate Techniques Respectfully

Students should seek strategies to integrate alternative techniques that do not disregard the class structure or the instructor's efforts. This could mean practicing those techniques outside regular class hours, studying them in private lessons, or patiently waiting to see if they're covered in future lessons. Another way is to try variations of the technique being practiced during class. This is common with higher ranking belts such as purple and brown belts. If your shown a half guard pass to armbar, you may also try the pass to a choke or other submission.

Instructor's Insight

Understanding the Instructor's Perspective

BJJ professors don't just impart technique; they instill discipline and structure to help students grow in every aspect of their martial arts journey. When students prioritize their personal preferences over the class's curriculum, they may inadvertently disrespect the thoughtful planning that goes into each session. Again, every academy and its learning culture are different. It is always better to follow the instruction for a variety of reasons. This helps mold you into a better leader who is an example for the rest of the class.

The Foundation First Approach

A solid foundation is key in B.J.J. Mastery of the fundamentals takes precedence because advanced or alternative techniques are often built upon these basic principles. Professors emphasize mastery of core skills before pursuing the complexity of a BJJ repertoire's other aspects.

Encouraging Open Communication

A professor's ultimate goal is to foster a nurturing learning atmosphere. Clear and open communication allows students to express their interests, which instructors can consider when planning classes. This dialogue creates a more tailored learning experience for the entire class.

Conclusion

In B.J.J., etiquette and respect lie at the core of the discipline. While the quest for mastering new techniques is commendable, working on something different during class might not be the most appropriate time. Respect for the curriculum, the professor, and your training peers is pivotal. If you're eager to broaden your technique repertoire, remember that timing and context are everything. Utilize open mats, communicate with your instructor, and focus on mastery during class to truly honor the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Train safe and train often,

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

The path to achieving a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a unique odyssey—a blend of rigorous training, an intellectual understanding of grappling concepts, and an unyielding spirit. The purple belt is a significant achievement in the BJJ world, marking the transition from being a diligent student to a seasoned practitioner with the beginnings of mastery.

The Fundamental Foundation

The foundation of any BJJ practitioner is built upon countless hours of drilling fundamental techniques. Mastering the basics is the foremost milestone in the odyssey to purple belt. A solid grasp of fundamental positions, escapes, and submissions is a prerequisite for anyone aspiring to rise through the ranks. Positions such as Mount, Guard, and Back Control, along with fundamental escapes from Side Control or Mount, are the bedrock upon which advanced skills are developed.

Your closed, open, and half guards become not just defensive bastions but launchpads for sophisticated attacks. Shifting seamlessly between these positions during live sparring is a testament to one's depth of understanding.

The Guard Game

Arguably one of the most intricate aspects of BJJ is the guard game. For those in quest of the purple belt, the guard isn't merely a position but an elaborate web of control and submission opportunities. Developing an effective guard game is crucial, where the legs are used as formidable barriers to an opponent's progress and as tools to maneuver them into vulnerable positions.

The evolution of the guard, from the security of the closed guard to the versatility of the open and the strategic nuance of the half guard, exemplifies a practitioner's progression. Your guard becomes a dynamic conduit through which flow is maintained—and it is this fluidity that BJJ celebrates.

Transitions and Takedowns

BJJ, in its essence, is the art of transitions, and hence, mastering transitions from one technique or position to another is a defining milestone. The ability to flow like water, finding the path of least resistance, is honed over years of mat time.

Takedown techniques and their defenses are another critical facet for those progressing toward the purple belt. A well-rounded skill set necessitates competence in both ground and standing positions; thus, integrating takedown strategies is indispensable.

The Crucible of Sparring

Live sparring sessions are the crucible within which a student's potential is forged into the tempered steel of a BJJ practitioner. Here is where technical proficiency, strategic mindset, and personal style coalesce. The goal in sparring shifts from mere victory to learning, experimenting, and refining one's technique and approach.

It was in these sparring sessions during my own time as a blue belt that I learned the importance of tapping out more experienced peers and, when possible, even those wearing the coveted purple fabric. Such victories are silent nods to one’s readiness for advancement.

Dedication Over Time

Achieving a purple belt cannot be rushed. It requires consistent and dedicated training over several years. This extended timeline is necessary not only for physical conditioning and skill acquisition but also for cultivating the mental resilience and strategic acumen that define a seasoned BJJ practitioner.

It's worth remembering that each practice session, each roll, each submission escaped, is a brushstroke on the canvas of your BJJ career.

Teaching and Sharing Knowledge

One of the milestones you reach as a purple belt denotes a high level of understanding so profound that you can impart knowledge effectively to those less experienced. This teaching is not merely a responsibility but a rite of passage, cementing your own understanding even as you help others grow.

Personal Style and Strategy

Personal experience has taught me that having a style can significantly influence the transition from blue to purple belt. This personal style becomes your BJJ signature, a unique combination of your preferred techniques, your approach to rolling, and your competitive strategies. Some are open guard players, DLR players, spider guard players. What your known for is essentially your "game".

The key to developing your style is adaptability and creativity. It's an introspective process where you discover what works best for you, constructing a strategy tailored to your physical attributes, strengths, and preferences.

Training Tips for Aspiring Purple Belts

For those aspiring to reach the coveted purple belt, here are some comprehensive tips:

• Always be open to learning and exploring new techniques and positions. Stagnation is the enemy of progress in BJJ.

• Work on sequences and transitions meticulously. Approach each position with a plan for every plausible scenario, and cultivate the proficiency to execute it.

• Drilling is paramount—repetition builds muscle memory, which translates into fluid and instinctive movements during live rolls.

• Reflect on sparring sessions, and identify areas for improvement. Continuous self-assessment ensures persistent growth.

• Practice with a variety of training partners; diversity in size, strength, and style will challenge you to adapt and refine your game.

• Practice with lower ranked partners. This will allow you to control things more and maneuver better between the transitions that become the sequences your adopt.

Conclusion

The pursuit of a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an epic undertaking that demands passion, intelligence, and soulful dedication. Each practitioner's voyage is personal and profound, rife with challenges and triumphs. It is not just a testament to technical ability but a narrative of personal evolution. Whether it takes four years or ten, the achievement of a BJJ purple belt is a landmark in one's martial arts odyssey and a beacon for further exploration.

Remember, a purple belt is not just a rank; it is an embodiment of the martial spirit, the intellectual rigor, and the unwavering commitment that Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu espouses.

Why it’s so difficult being a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? For anyone who has never trained Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), the belt system can be confusing. There are a total of 8 belts in BJJ, each representing a different level of proficiency. The first four belts (white, blue, purple, and brown) are considered the student belts, while the last four (black, red/black, red, and coral) are considered the master belts. Don't forget the 4 stripes in between each rank if applicable. The blue belt is often considered to be the hardest belt to achieve because it requires a good understanding of the basic techniques and a reasonable amount of skill to execute them effectively. This can take between 1-3 years. In addition, blue belts also must deal with the pressure of living up to the expectations of those who have already achieved higher ranks. So why is it so difficult being a blue belt? 1. You're no longer a beginner, but you're not quite an expert yet. 2. You're often matched up against opponents who are more experienced than you. 3. You should be able to execute the basics perfectly before you can move on to more advanced techniques. 4. People will expect more from you now that you're a blue belt. 5. You'll need to put in a lot of hard work and dedication to progress further in your BJJ journey. (getting to purple belt can take years) 6. Its known that blue belts quit more than any other belt. 7. You have to be on time for warm ups until you’re a purple belt. 8. Its discouraging to see people you were once competitive with at white belt advance faster once they become a blue belt. It almost seems unfair that a person gets to purple faster.

9. There are more people in blue belt divisions at tournaments than any other belt rank. This worsens the odds of winning tournaments.

What you have to do to become a blue belt? There are a few things you need to do in order to achieve a blue belt: 1. Become proficient in the basic techniques. This means being able to execute them correctly and effectively. (Most important). 2. Show good sportsmanship both on and off the mat. 3. Attend class regularly and put in the extra effort outside of class (such as drilling and practicing at home). 4. Demonstrate a positive attitude and willingness to learn. 5. Be patient! The journey to blue belt is not an easy one, but it will be worth it in the end.

What you have to do to become a purple belt? There are a few things you need to do in order to achieve the purple belt: 1. Be proficient in submissions 2. Be able to transition in between techniques 3. Have a game! You should have a set of sequences that make up what your known for. For example, a good guard game or passing game. 4. The ability to defend attacks 5. The ability to escape submissions 6. Chaining techniques I.E., one pass to another, take down to pass to submission 7. The ability to work from any position 8. Assisting other students with technical issues

Here is some friendly advice for Blue Belts,

"Work on defending everything, I know submissions are cool and fun to learn but when you actually know how to defend everything, that will actually open up your game when you become a purple belt because you won't be afraid of losing positions" - Brian Hummel (BJJ 1st Degree Black Belt).

This will help you advance because your confidence level will be heightened. If you're currently a blue belt, don't get discouraged! Remember that everyone goes through the same struggles when they first start out in BJJ. With enough time and effort, you'll eventually be able to overcome the challenges of being a blue belt and progress onto the next level.

Train safe and Train Often Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

info@bjjreport.com

Article Contributors: Brian Hummel - 1st degree Black Belt | Kaiju MMA | Carlson Gracie Lineage

What ever game your known for makes your BJJ flaws in fact more obvious! (true story)

Which one are you? Be honest!!! Pick one!!

Top Player, Guard Player (this includes half guard so calm down), Berimboloist or Leg Locker?

Whatever you are only means the rest of your Jiu Jitsu needs to be polished up! (maybe)

People do rely on their “game” yet this means you have more holes in your “game”.

Jiu Jitsu as an art affords the practitioner an incredibly high level of self-expression. One can spend a lifetime without even scratching the exponential surface of hundreds of techniques, sequences and variations. The most BJJ practitioners can hope for is to find a small reef in this ocean and create a domain from it. After all, Bruce Lee once said, “I fear not the man who has practiced 1000 submissions one time, but I fear the man who has practiced one submission 1000 times.”

LISTEN CLOSE: Even if we can only claim dominion over one small part of the ocean of Jiu Jitsu, victory will often force us to go beyond our comfort zone. Would you rather maintain your ‘style’ or would you rather get more taps? I am personally a guard player and find myself taking time to put myself in more uncomfortable positions as well as taking more risks on submissions. You cant play guard forever (although the idea seems pretty cool).

Let’s go back to the quote from Bruce Lee. Throughout our jiu jitsu careers we will find ourselves practicing our spider guard sweeps 10,000 times and then some. In our practice of our favorite techniques, we’ll use our ‘style’ as an excuse for staying in our bubble or what we like to call “our game”. I am also very guilty of this and often pull guard. This can be fun but also can get very boring. Plus we have to take into consideration that we are going to be exposed to a variety of styles during our journey. Why not get better and evolve?

For example “hey bro, that guy has a sick berimbolo” yeah he does but he cannot escape side control so let's see what he does after getting smash passed! OSS!

“I’m a leg locker, I don’t care about passing.”

“I’m a guard player, I don't need to pass”

“I’m a top player, I DON’T NEED A GUARD!”

The leg locker that has only practiced his inside heel hook 1000 times will get crushed once they cannot put you in a leg entanglement, same with the guard player when they get passed, and again with the top player that gets swept or placed in a leg lock entanglement.

In all 3 aforementioned situations, those players have had their ‘style’ nulled by very common responses AKA BJJ Basics or an alternate path to advance upon. Everyone’s game is different yet no matter how amazing your game is there is always someone with an answer. NO MATTER HOW HIGH LEVEL YOU ARE! Does this mean that we need to spread ourselves thin, chasing after the idea of learning everything?

FAR FROM IT! Take our leg locker for example, instead of practicing another technique or setup 100 times, start getting some practice in other areas that you know is considered your kryptonite. Work on areas that you are truly uncomfortable in.

WHATS MY POINT? Don’t have a style! Be well rounded! Allow your style to be the flag you wave and the set of sequences that our professors call our “game”. It's okay to have an unstoppable guard pass, it's okay to have amazing guard retention and it's okay to entangle legs like no other.

Its probably not okay to rely on only one!

Train Safe and Train Often,

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

Rash guards are a must-have for any BJJ practitioner. They not only protect your skin from mat burns and other injuries, but they also help to keep you cool (and help slow the cool down process) during training. So, why wear a rash guard in BJJ? There are plenty of reasons, but here are just a few:

1. To prevent mat burns and other injuries. 2. To keep you cool and comfortable during training. 3. To show off your BJJ pride! (Okay, maybe that's not the most important reason, but it is a bonus!) 4. To help prevent getting ringworm or other communicable viruses. 5. To show belt rank and represent your academy. 6. To protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays (yes, even indoors). 7. To not get a dose of slimy sweat from your opponent while training! YUK! 8 Rash guards can also help prevent you from cooling down too fast. 9. And last but not least, to look good while doing it! What kind of communicable viruses can a rash guard help prevent you from getting? Some communicable viruses that a rash guard can help to prevent include: - Ringworm - Staph infection - Herpes simplex virus - Influenza - Human papillomavirus (HPV) - Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) So, not only can rash guards help to prevent mat burns and other injuries, but they can also help keep you from getting sick! That's definitely a good enough reason to make sure you always wear one when training BJJ.

What are rash guards in BJJ made of? Most rash guards are made from a polyester and spandex blend. This material is stretchy and comfortable, yet durable enough to stand up to the rigors of BJJ training. The fabric is also breathable, which helps to keep you cool and comfortable during even the most intense training sessions. Rash guards come in a variety of colors, designs, and sizes. You can find ones that represent your favorite BJJ academy or that show off your belt rank. Or, you can simply choose one that looks cool and makes you feel good when you wear it. Why IBJJF does not allow you to wear a rash guard?

(from a popular LLM)

the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) prohibits the use of rash guards in tournaments for a few reasons:

1. Uniform Standards: The IBJJF has specific uniform guidelines that competitors must adhere to during tournaments. This includes wearing a fitted, short-sleeved, or sleeveless, form-fitting shirt, typically called a "Gi" or "kimono" top for men, and a Gi top or a sports bra for women. Rash guards don't fit into these guidelines as they are typically long-sleeved and not designed to be worn under a Gi.

2. Grip and Control: Rash guards, especially long-sleeved ones, can provide additional friction and make it harder for opponents to grip the fabric of the uniform, potentially affecting the dynamics of matches. By disallowing rash guards, IBJJF aims to maintain a consistent playing field and prevent any unfair advantage that might arise from variations in attire.

3. Tradition and Culture: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has deep roots in tradition and culture, and the IBJJF often aims to preserve these aspects of the sport. The traditional Gi uniform has been a part of BJJ since its inception, and the IBJJF's uniform rules reflect this tradition.

It's worth noting that rules and regulations may evolve over time, so it's essential to consult the most recent IBJJF rulebook or reach out to the organization directly for the latest information on uniform guidelines and tournament regulations. So, while you can't wear a rash guard in IBJJF competition, you should definitely make sure to always wear one when training. There are too many benefits to rash guards to ignore, so make sure you always have one handy the next time you hit the mat! Train Safe and train often.

Matthew Tropp - BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

Its true! The panting of being a white belt or blue belt days will soon be over, or will they? Let’s be realistic, being a white belt sucks! Being a blue belt sucks a bit less and once you’re a purple belt you feel like you truly have a place in the BJJ community. Here is the thing, when you become better at BJJ you may unintentionally sacrifice your cardio a bit. FACTS!!

Once you become a purple belt, which takes many years to achieve, you are more proficient at BJJ. You have a working knowledge of submissions, takedowns, sequences, more advanced movement and a better understanding of the body mechanics needed to help you finish faster. As well and probably one of the most important ways to identify a purple belt, transitions. It may be safe a purple belt in brazilian jiu jitsu can toy with lower belts without breaking much of a sweat. Another obvious factor is that you don't use much cardio while doing this. Now don’t get me wrong, there are different performance levels and each person during their journey can be in great physical shape, however if you ask any non competition purple belt about the need for cardio when they train they will tell you they don’t need to use cardio because they rely more on technique. (I hope)

For the Record!!! I am not saying all purple belts lose cardio. I am saying as you become more technical the need for it may become less depending on who you train with and where you train. Ok, here are 7 reasons purple belts have bad cardio. 1. BJJ Purple Belts Have More Technical Knowledge: BJJ purple belts have a deep knowledge of Jiu Jitsu and its techniques, which often leads to them spending more time thinking about strategy during rolls rather than relying solely on cardio endurance. 2. BJJ Purple Belts Spend Less Time Rolling: BJJ purple belts generally tend to roll less often due to their increased responsibility in teaching classes or running the academy, leaving less time for them to train intensely. 3. No need to use strength: BJJ purple belts have more experience with technique and as such they may require fewer intense rolling rounds to develop their game, reducing overall cardio conditioning sessions. 4. BJJ Purple Belts Move More Efficiently: BJJ purple belts have learned to move more efficiently and are therefore able to conserve energy, which leads to less need for vigorous cardio training. 5. Some BJJ Purple Belts Have Greater Strength: BJJ purple belts tend to have a greater strength-to-weight ratio due to their increased technical knowledge and experience, making them less reliant on higher intensity aerobic exercise. 6. BJJ Purple Belts Rely Heavily On Strategy: BJJ purple belts rely heavily on strategy rather than using brute force, reducing the need for intense cardio sessions. They are a lot more technical. 7. Purple belts missed years of warm ups (sorry I had to). If you don't warm up or stay consistent when getting in shape you will become "out of shape"

Again this does not apply to every purple belt in every match however it is known that as you become more technical you may rely on cardio a lot less.

Stay fit, train smart! Hit the Gym, and keep your cardio on point!

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

We all want to perform our best when it comes to time on the mat. What we eat and when we eat plays a role in our performance. No matter what type of exercise routine we are doing, it’s important to fuel our bodies properly. Eating the wrong foods before training can leave you feeling sluggish and unable to give it your all.

10 Worst foods to eat before training BJJ?

1. Fast food: High in fat and low in nutrients, fast food gives you empty calories that won’t help with your training. Lets be honest, eating fast food is probably a bad idea in general.

2. Sugary snacks: Too much sugar can make you energetic at first but than make you sluggish and lethargic during a workout, so stay away from candy bars, cookies and other sugary treats before heading to the gym.

3. Highly processed meats: Hotdogs, sausages and other processed meats have high levels of sodium and saturated fat that can slow you down during a training session. These are not great to fuel your body no matter how many grams of protein it says it has.

4. Caffeinated beverages: Drinking an energy drink or coffee before training may provide short-term benefits, but the caffeine crash afterwards is not worth it. If you are going to drink an energy drink it may be better to consume one with ZERO sugar. This may help mitigate the crash after consuming it.

5. Fried foods: Greasy French fries, chicken wings and other fried foods are not a good pre-training snack because they can leave you feeling bloated and sluggish when working out. It also may be harder for your body to process these foods.

6. Alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol before training. It can slow down your reaction time and leave you dehydrated.

7. Whole milk and dairy products: Dairy has been shown to slow digestion, so try to avoid drinking whole milk or eating cheese before hitting the mats. Its probably better to hydrate and drink water.

8. Sugary cereals: With their high sugar content and low fiber levels, sugary cereals are not a good pre-training fuel source. If your going to eat cereal try something with low or no sugar and that is high in protein.

9. White breads and pastas: Refined white flour products like white bread, pasta and pizza are low in fiber and can cause a spike in blood sugar that isn’t ideal for training. What goes up must come down and in this case you may experience a crash.

10. High-fat nuts: Almonds, cashews and other high-fat nuts give you energy but can make you feel sluggish during a workout. Maybe reconsider trail mix before training.

11. Acai: Totally kidding! Acai is great and will give you Brazilian Jiu Jitsu superpowers. Street Nicknames are as follows, "OSS-Eye-E" AKA "The Purple Secret" AKA "Eye of the Purple Tiger" AKA "Brazilian Sizzurup" AKA "Fruity Steroids"

It’s important to fuel your body properly before a training session, so stick with healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins for optimal performance on the mats. Eating too much of the wrong foods before training could leave you feeling lethargic and unable to give it your all. So take the time to plan out your pre-training meal or snack and make sure you’re getting the right balance of nutrients.

Stick with healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins for optimal performance on the mats.

Train safe and train often

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

Why don’t black belts do warmups with the rest of the class?

Do you ever ask yourself, "Why is it every single class I attend, the professor never warms up"? Should he be leading by example or is it better served that he or she is guiding our warm ups?

Let’s keep in mind a few things. Our professors are able to chain tap us into oblivion at will. The fact they do not warm up or even spar doesn’t mean they didn't earn their rank as our professor. They did in fact earn their rank.

Also keep in mind you pay good money to warm up and learn BJJ. After all it is a martial art as well as exercise regimen. Plus they have to conduct a class of people who are at different levels, probably train for competition when they can make the time and have a variety of responsibilities. Maybe guiding warm ups are a better use of attention. Some people need attention and refinement. Not everybody hip escapes correctly believe it or not. In fact I hear its uncommon to learn the true value of shrimping until your a blue or purple belt.

Keep in mind I am in southern California. Its super warm and maybe muscles are better adapted to exercise here. I am not sure about other states but ask yourself “does my professor need to warm up”?

I am not sure I have ever seen any of my professor's do a front roll (except where I currently train)…EVER! In fact, I very much respect each of my previous professors however I think this raises an interesting point, and honestly don't we work a bit harder when we are lead by our professor? I know I do.

Should warming up for BJJ be BJJ? Could this be why purple belts are always late?

Let’s look at another issue. First, is it really unfair that we are running in circles, doing hip escapes, penetration drills, army crawls and leg drags for 15 minutes?

What (beside shrimp’s "aka" hip escapes) do these things do to help us in BJJ?

What about front and back rolls? Are we going to use these on the street as we are thrown by an expert student of Steven Segal? Probably not.

Can’t we all just shrimp, do leg drags and get to learning BJJ? I am not complaining or attacking the structure of how a class is run. I really want to better understand how each warm up helps my game or technique.

Maybe I should just ask and stop writing these whining articles...

Train Safe & Train Often

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

ATTENTION WHITE BELTS!!! Here are some thoughts on how to get your blue belt!

As a practitioner of BJJ for many years I have had the opportunity to see people progress. Some faster than others. Some not at all.

To get promoted to BJJ blue belt generally requires a minimum of two years of training. Some academies have 3 year programs, while others may promote you in as little as 18 months. The time it takes will vary depending on your academy, instructor, and how often you train.

In order to be promoted, you'll need to demonstrate proficiency in the basic techniques of BJJ. This includes being able to execute various sweeps, submissions, and escapes from common positions. You should also be familiar with BJJ theory and concepts such as proper posture, guard retention, and the principles of leverage.

In addition to technical skills, you'll also need to show that you're dedicated to the sport and display good character traits such as discipline, respect, and perseverance.

Here are some things you can do to help you get promoted to BJJ blue belt faster:

- Train regularly and consistently. This is the most important factor in determining how fast you'll progress. The more often you train, the faster you'll learn and the more likely you are to be promoted.

- Attend seminars and workshops. These can help you supplement your regular training and accelerate your learning.

- Read books and articles about BJJ. This will help increase your understanding of the sport and give you an edge over other students who don't bother reading about BJJ outside of class.

- Compete in tournaments. Competition can be a great way to test your skills and measure your progress. It will also give you a chance to earn stripes or medals, which can show your instructor that you're dedicated to BJJ.

- Be polite and respectful to your instructors and training partners. This will show that you have good character and are committed to the BJJ lifestyle.

- Help out around the academy. This could involve cleaning the mats, helping new students, or teaching classes. By lending a hand, you'll demonstrate your dedication to the sport and make yourself more valuable to the academy.

- Be patient. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a BJJ black belt. It takes time and dedication to reach the next level in BJJ.

Following these tips will help you get promoted to BJJ blue belt faster. However, ultimately it's up to your instructor to decide when you're ready for promotion.

So be patient, stay focused and tap often.

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

When searching for Jiu Jitsu academies, you’ll often see a list of medals and accolades front and center on all the academy’s promotional material and website home page. You will even see a display somewhere in the academy. Understandably so, you want to make sure that you’re going to be training with someone that has tested their Jiu Jitsu effectively weather in fighting or tournaments.

If your Professor can beat other world class Black Belts, that should mean his technique is solid, right?

The interesting thing is, none of those medals are given for the ability to teach well or explain technique. You don’t hit the podium at ADCC or IBJJF Worlds by being the best teacher, you get those medals by beating other highly skilled athletes. Even when you earn any belt above White, is it possible that your Professor is looking at how long you have been training, who you’re tapping and who you’re getting tapped by, not how you’re adopting his or her's knowledge? Maybe...

Who teaches them how to teach and what makes a good teacher? Is it possible that some people simply are not good at explaining technique? Is there a better way? In all fairness, it is also safe to assume that everyone sings to a different tune and one persons teaching style may be better than another. Its wise to think that everyone learns different, correct? This is debatable.

Time on the mat doesn’t equate to teaching ability. Most competitive Black Belts rose up through the ranks by beating others in competition, not necessarily by teaching others. Just because the head Professor of a prospective academy you’re looking at has a laundry list of first place finishes, doesn’t mean he/she will be the best person to cultivate your skills as a Jiu Jitsu athlete. Just sayin. Most of the time these Professors have engaged in an in depth study of techniques that work for them, but how many of them have actually spent any time learning the best way to become a teacher? Is there a way to do this? Is Jiu Jitsu too young to have teaching requirements?

How many of them REALLY know the science behind skill acquisition and mastery, and the shortest path to go from novice to master? Most Professors will just show their students a technique out of their "A game" and expect students to pick it up just by watching them drill against a non-resisting opponent. When faced with students that can’t learn in that particular way, most Professors will just keep repeating the ‘show and do’ until the allotted drilling time runs out. Most Professors may be able to show you 5 different heel hook variations, but not how to apply the entry from a variety of scenarios. Now, can a Professor be a good teacher without being an accomplished athlete themselves? YES!

If you look at John Danaher and the obvious rise of the DDS (Danaher Death Squad), you will see this. Danaher himself has never competed and even admits that in a competitive situation, he will be tapped out by other Black Belts due to a variety of issues. If you look at the squad he has cultivated and the way he teaches, it is apparent that not only does he know the techniques of Jiu Jitsu very well, but also has a solid teaching strategy that he implements with all his students. The results speak for themselves as his athletes dominate the no gi grappling scene, using almost the exact same game plan. Its safe to say that someone that’s a killer, won’t necessarily create other killers.

As consumers, we may have to look past the accolades of our potential teachers and instead focus on how they teach and cultivate the skills of their student base. How can we do this with only one "free class"?

Out of 100 students at least 5-10 will be killers just due to the law of averages (of course I am speculating and have no data on this). On the flipside, there will be 5 students that are utterly untalented with almost no foundation. The 5 worst students are the true test of an academy’s tutelage. Are the 5 worst students killers in their own right, or at least competent practitioners? If so, it means that the instructors are able to adapt their teaching style to squeeze the potential out of untalented students. On the other hand, if the 5 worst students are utterly lacking even basic fundamentals and are overlooked by the instructors… maybe it’s a good idea to consider other candidates as better places to train.

To Professors, maybe it’s also a good time to look up some books or podcasts on how to teach and acquire skills. If you spent 10 years practicing Jiu Jitsu, but have only really been studying how to teach at the end of those 10 years… you may be a white belt at teaching with all due respect.

Train Safe & Train Often,

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Infor@bjjreport.com

It's generally considered good etiquette to not go too hard when you're a guest at another BJJ school. (Unless it’s the 1980s and you’re accepting the "Gracie challenge").

As well you may be on top of your BJJ game any given day and want to challenge a BJJ academy owner for the rights to his/her students... If you win, they become your students!

(I AM JOKING)

Ok, So... l let’s talk about etiquette when you’re a guest or a new student at another school.

Dropping in to another school:

When I travel, I don't like to have gaps in my training, so I find places that allow guests. I often do some research in the area prior to traveling. I look on Google for BJJ academies to "drop in". Most schools welcome drop ins. Some ask for a drop-in fee and others do not. I simply call and say "hi, I am going to be in your area on a specific date and wondered if you allow drop in's"? I have never had a school say no.

Drop ins and open mats are a great opportunity to try out different techniques and meet new people, but it's important to respect the training environment of the host school. Dropping in and taking one of the classes is another way to not only train but experience different BJJ culture. Every school is a sort of "Tribe". It’s also kind of great because most schools are very welcoming and its like an extended family you never knew you had.

If you're visiting a BJJ school for the first time, introduce yourself to the instructor and let them know your level of experience (be honest and don't sandbag). This will help them gauge how hard to train with you and who to match you up with.

When rolling with lower rank belts you should let them apply more technique on you out of respect for the school you’re visiting. Going 100% against them is considered bad behavior and could cause them to get discouraged.

Dont over smash students, dont use dirty techniques like crossfacing on the jaw, putting a fist in someones throat, overextending an armbar, cranking a heel hook or too much pressure while you have a knee in belly. This is considered innapropriate. This is also spazzy as fuck! Stay calm and enjoy jiu jitsu!

It’s also considered bad to go 100% with lower ranks. If you get a submission it’s better to "catch and release" than continue to roll. Also, watch out because every school has what is referred to as an "enforcer".

What is an enforcer at a BJJ school?

This is a person who is a higher rank, usually brown or black belt. They will literally run a clinic on you if you get rough with anyone or seem out of line. If you come across an enforcer the best thing you can do is let them know you’re a guest and ask them to warm up. Enforcers will give the same aggression that you may have given to resident students. Its considered impolite to roll hard when you’re a guest. You may consider expecting to lose a bit more than normal however your at least getting rolls in and working on defense.

In general, it's important to be respectful of the training environment at any BJJ school you visit. Again, this means following the rules of the school, being friendly to other students, and not going too hard when rolling with someone of a lower rank. By doing this, you'll make sure that everyone has a good time and can focus on learning and improving their techniques.

Other rules of etiquette when you’re a guest at a BJJ school are as follows:

- Ask to wear wrestling shoes on the mats (if you have them) - Put your phone away and don't use it during class - Don't talk while the instructor is talking - Ask before taking photos or videos - Don't show up to class late (show up early) - Respect the property of the school and clean up after yourself.

By following these simple rules of etiquette, you'll be sure to have a great time at any BJJ school you visit!

Train safe and Train Often!

Matthew Tropp - BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

MULTIPLE CHOICE: DO YOU?

A: Extend your hips and pop the arm’?

B: Hold on to it but it's likely he will eventually get out if he can stack you?

C: Let go and work into another position hoping this doesn't happen again?

D: Let go and let them know

I guess the answer is different for everyone, right?

I heard once that you will fight in the street the same way you fight on the mat. Does that mean if you start letting armbars and submissions go that you will do the same thing on the street? I imagine most fight instructors would say yes. In my opinion you should always look out for the safety of your training partners and even those you confront on the street.

A handful of people would say “I can turn up the volume when I need to, especially in the street" However when you're being attacked on the street you don't have the luxury of the soft buttery mats, you don't have a professor walking around coaching you and chances are there are others accompanying you and or the person you're fighting with. We do not want our coconut cracked by a steel toe boot do we?

This is something we all should discuss with our professors (unless you're reading this and thinking “my professor goes over this all the time, In fact the first day I started training he sat me down and said “Matthew, you must always fight to finish and don't ever let go” )

Oh I forgot, what if the guy you're fighting in a Starbucks parking lot taps while being “S mounted” while you were about to reunite him with his orthopedic surgeon? What do you do? Do you let go and share with him what a great match it was or do you pop that bitch and go home? Keep in mind if he were on top would he let go or send you a flurry of punches sending you into the oblivion until you wake up in th eback of an ambulance, if you wake up.

Let's take this to another level, and calm it down a bit...

Oftentimes when two Jiu Jitsu practitioners are locked in a competition-style roll, there will come a situation where one of them catches a DEEP submission, but the other one won’t tap. This brings up a question, who’s the one responsible for safety? Should the guy that got caught in the armbar tap out, or should the guy with the submission let it go and keep the round going?... or better yet, should the submission be pushed to the limit until the tap is forced? What are the rules and how far should we take it? Are there rules about this in your BJJ academy?

Do they talk about it or maybe they don't have to talk about it because you signed the waiver.

At its core, Jiu Jitsu is a brutal combat sport practiced by consenting adults (remember, you did sign the waiver saying it may cause death or injury). As adults we should be taking full responsibility for our own health and safety by tapping at our own discretion, especially in the training facility. This isn’t to say we shouldn’t also be taking our own training partners’ well-being into consideration. We shouldn’t be haphazardly throwing on submissions and cranking them to their limits. In my opinion we want to give our training partners room to tap. However, some of our training partners can be stubborn as hell even in deep waters.

What happens when we have a training partner that will refuse to tap or doesn't think they are in danger? Shouldn’t it be our duty as training partners to humble them, and potentially demonstrate the error of their ways? Sometimes certain training partners can get too comfortable with often letting submissions go because they subconsciously know that the people they normally train with will do the same. If this training partner gets into a competition with this mentality, won’t they be setting themselves up for failure?

Did your professor go over this with you? What are the rules in the street? What are the rules in competition?

HERE IS A SCENARIO !!

Let's say in a competition and you and another person are in the finals. He has you in an arm bar and looks at the referee and it's very clear he could break it, you think the time in the gym you spend working biceps gives you license to hold on...the referee looks at you and it's clear you're not going to tap (similar to Paolo Miyao when the people he fights are toe holding him). Should the referee let it continue or stop the fight and your opponent wins due to safety measures? Or should the referee look you dead in the eye and say “what are you waiting for”?

I'm confused , isn't BJJ a martial art that teaches us to break limbs and choke people unconscious? Can we learn this safely or simply expect a lot more injury during our road to black belt? What is the real answer

Ill say this again, the way we train is usually the way we fight or compete. We need to know ahead of time what we should do in each situation, keep the safety of our partners in our minds at all times, learn the law and get more guidance from our professors.

Train Safe and Train Often,

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

Short answer: do whatever you want, train in a suit and tie if that makes you happy. As long as your ground game proficiency is Purple or higher you should feel super comfortable on the ground in a real confrontation. There are no guarantees in a street fight. Anyone can win if they are prepared.

Long Answer: It depends on several factors…answer is below.

Let’s say you’re an aspiring cage fighter. Chances are spending time in the Gi won’t take away from your ability to fight in the cage, but the time you spend in the Gi is time you’re spending not working on other aspects that will make you a better cage fighter (i.e. Boxing, Kickboxing, Wrestling etc.). When you look at other sports, you will never see a professional athlete spend time playing other sports. You won’t see NBA athletes practice in a 3 on 3 street league at the beach court on weekends, and you’ll never see NHL athletes practicing off the ice. If your chosen discipline is cage-fighting, your time is best spent practicing how you perform, which is not in the Gi. It does not mean you should not cross train and it certainly doesn't mean you will be less comfortable on the ground.

At the end of the day, one should tailor their practice to their goals, and have fun training. I will say this again and I have said this in many of the articles written, you usually fight how you train.

Please keep in mind that when punches and kicks are involved it can completely change the dynamic of how things play out in the street. I understand that you are great at top and bottom games on the mat but what if while you're trying to armbar someone from the guard you get cracked across the face and blinded by white light and pain because your nose just got disfigured by a meth addict? Are you used to these situations, can you recover from this quickly and do you have a strategy. As well, what the hell are you doing on the ground in the first place?

The real question is which is more street effective? To Gi or not to Gi? That is the question.

Let’s say you have aspirations of being an EBI or ADCC champion. If the likes of Gordon Ryan have demonstrated anything, it’s that Jiu Jitsu also follows the principle of sport. If the ruleset you’re competing under doesn’t have the Gi, you’re most likely wasting time by practicing in the Gi. The metagames of Gi Jiu Jitsu and No-Gi Jiu Jitsu have diverged far from one another. I will concede that there are champions in both such as Marcelo Garcia and Andre Galvao; however, could they have been better at one form of Jiu Jitsu if they didn’t split time between the two? Could Galvao have been an even better no-gi grappler if he didn’t spend any time in the Gi and focused only on no-Gi, similar to Gordon Ryan? Debatable.

In the case of someone looking to be more street ready… you probably won’t go wrong with training with either one. The Gi provides a unique opportunity to fight in an outfit that is closer match to street clothes (a T-Shirt + Jeans is WAY closer to a Gi than a rash guard + spats). Spending some time in the Gi can allow you to experience the sensation of having your movement restricted by someone else gripping your clothing. In a lot of street fight videos on YouTube, you can see any schmuck grab a T-shirt and use it as leverage against an opponent. In no-Gi you won’t be able to replicate the feeling of someone gripping your clothes, and you might even fall out of practice with dealing against cloth grips. As well how often are you in shorts and shirtless?

You should once again train how you plan to defend yourself if you are training Jiu Jitsu for self defense. Not to say that if an average person who for the benefit of the doubt hits the gym regularly confronts you and you happen to be a competition level blue belt. It's safe to say it would not end well for the gym rat however if the gym rat strikes you across the face and you aren't familiar with taking a punch it may confuse you and give leverage to the gym rat who could perhaps come out victorious.

Just sayin!

The moral of the story is you should decide if you're a sportsman or a martial artist. This may or may or may not not be the deciding factor to how things end up in a real confrontation.

Something to think about....

Train safe and train often,

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

info@bjjreport.com

What exactly is a wristlock?

A wristlock is a type of joint lock that involves hyper flexing or hyperextending the wrist. This can cause pain and even dislocation if the hold is applied with enough force. Wristlocks are typically used as submission holds in BJJ, but they can also be used for self-defense purposes.

There are many different ways to execute a wristlock, but the most common involve grabbing the opponent's wrist and twisting it in an unnatural direction. This can be done with one hand or two, depending on the position and the preference of the person applying the hold.

Wristlocks can also be applied from a standing position, but they are most commonly used when both fighters are on the ground. This is because it can be difficult to generate enough force to hyperflex or hyperextend the wrist when both fighters are standing.

In this article we look at it from the view of a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu practitioner.

Wristlocks can be used against opponents of any size, but they are most effective against larger opponents. You know this if you have ever tried to armbar a power lifter with less experience. Wristlocks are again, more practical against larger opponents. This is because larger opponents often have more muscle mass in their arms and shoulders, which makes it harder for them to resist the hold.

When and why, you should teach wristlocks in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

Wristlocks are now a common submission hold in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. They may be illegal in some BJJ competitions. As a result, many BJJ schools may not teach wristlocks to their students until they reach a higher level if ever.

There are several reasons why you might want to teach wristlocks to your students, even if they are only white belts. First, wristlocks can be very effective submissions, especially when used in combination with other techniques. Second, wristlocks can help your students to develop a better understanding of leverage and body mechanics. And finally, some students may find wristlocks to be particularly interesting or enjoyable to learn.

Of course, there are also some risks associated with teaching wristlocks to white belts. One is that they may not have the strength or skill to execute the technique properly, which could lead to injury. Another is that they may use the technique in a sparring match before they are ready, which could cause problems if their opponent is not expecting it. We need to teach control when executing techniques like this. There is a similar debate about teaching heel hooks or leg attacks to beginners.

As with all techniques, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits before deciding whether or not to teach wristlocks to your students. If you do decide to teach them, be sure to provide clear and concise instruction, and make sure your students are aware of the risks involved.

Why do people get pissed off when they are wrist locked in BJJ?

There are a few reasons why people might get angry when they are wrist locked in BJJ. First, wristlocks can be very painful, especially if they are applied with enough force. They can also cause injury and prevent someone from training or even worse, going to work.

Wrist locks can be very effective in BJJ, however, they can also be quite controversial. Some people feel that they are too dangerous and can cause serious injury, while others believe that they are a legitimate part of the game. Whether or not you think wrist locks are a good thing, it's important to be aware of the potential risks involved before using them in BJJ.

In my personal opinion, wristlock the world (or at least your opponent in BJJ) Matthew Tropp – BJJ Report

info@bjjreport.com

Can you really rely on muscle memory without the true benefit of real resistance?

No, we cannot!

If you’ve been practicing Jiu Jitsu for more than a day you probably heard your coach or an upper belt tell you ‘Drillers make killers.’ Sure I get it, you should always practice, but if drillers truly make killers, then why do we see so many traditional martial artists get wrecked whenever they step into the arena against a half decent MMA fighter. All these traditional martial artists spend ALL their training time drilling for decades, and a lot of them aren’t really killing much except plates full of disappointment.

No matter how you cut it, drilling without any resistance loses almost all its benefit after several reps however it does help adopt the muscle memory so that you have it available to use if you actually practice it during a live roll. You see white belts rep out hundreds of armbars from guard, yet they never get close to hitting it during live rolls. WHY? As it turns out drilling in isolation won’t do much to prepare our students to fight against someone that doesn’t want to comply with our technique. Same can be said about the excessive application of flow rolling. AS I KEEP SAYING OVER AND OVER AND OVER “YOU FIGHT HOW YOU TRAIN” This is why positional sparring helps you gain experience in a "live roll" setting.

Even though flow rolling can produce some beautiful sequences and get us familiar with timing, response and feel, if we do it too much without resistance it can hurt our games especially if we do it too much. Again, just like static, compliant drilling, flow rolling isn’t realistic when we compare it to a hard roll. Chances are if you’re competing or even rolling against someone stubborn, your opponent won’t just let you advance your position for free. Even worse, you might trick yourself into thinking you developed a good sequence from your flow roll, when your sequence only worked because your partner let you have it. Nothing feels worse than having your game shut down when rolling against someone playing for keeps.

To take a page out of Keenan’s book, a lot of us can benefit from positional sparring more than drilling, even beginners. When drilling a technique, wouldn’t it be way more engaging if we ramped up the resistance level? Take our armbar from the guard example. Would you be afraid of someone that just repped it out 100 times against a grappling dummy, or someone that has had to practice their armbar against someone not giving up their arm? There are a LOT of little nuances that go into learning our techniques that can’t always be captured when practicing against non resisting opponents. This isn’t to say ALL passive drilling isn’t fruitful.

There’s also something we can learn about repetitive drilling from our sister arts, Wrestling and Judo. In those arts, it’s not uncommon for students to be putting in hundreds of reps per technique in each session. Those arts also invest a lot of time into sparring as well, but one key difference is in the number of techniques that they will drill. In Judo, most will master just 3 throws, and in Wrestling most people will be repping their single leg, double leg and high crotch. By zeroing in on a small number of techniques and how to chain them together, they are given a lot of time to study every single setup for their game. In Jiu Jitsu, most classes won’t cultivate a short list of techniques to rep out due to the nature of the technique of the day class structure. Because of all the techniques Jiu Jitsu students are exposed to, most won’t become familiar with all the setups and nuances of the techniques. This is just part of the journey and why it takes so long to advance in rank.

In conclusion, I am not sure that drillers make killers. They may make muscle memory and technique adoption more available to implement in a live roll. Intentional practice and positional sparring make killers, but unfortunately that doesn’t rhyme.

Train Safe and Train Often!

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

With every new group of new White Belts entering the academy, washouts are just as much a part of the process. For whatever reason, be it life or injuries most White Belts will come for a trial class or two and then quit. Now among these new White Belts, you’ll see a dedicated bunch that will tough it out and earn their blue belts. But right as they collect their Blue Belt from their promotion ceremony, they’re just gone, never to be heard from again. What gives?

I would be interested in hearing what you have to say about this...

Blue Belt for all intents and purposes is a limbo belt; it’s still considered a beginner belt, but you’re still considered a trained individual if you have one. Blue belts will be able to handle most White Belts with the exception of the D1 wrestler or sandbag, but will still likely be toyed with by Purple to Black Belts. For a lot of people getting past the hump of White Belt only to still be dominated by Purple through Black Belts can seem demoralizing.

To even get a Blue Belt, you would be training consistently for a year (on average). Day in and day out, getting smashed by any belt with a hint of color. Even if you make it through the crucible of White Belt, there’s still a big gap between Blue and Black that’s enough to take ten years on average of dedicated study. Most people who aren’t dedicated will just leave. To a lot of people Jiu Jitsu isn’t everything, and that’s fine. Not everyone has a 4 year degree, let alone a 10 year degree. Jiu Jitsu for most people takes away a lot from the attention we have to give to our kids, significant others and career growth.

Getting smashed by colored belts multiple nights a week isn’t good for the body most of the time. Kimuras, armbars, kneebars, and ankle locks won’t do your joint health any favors, especially if you’re an older practitioner like me (i'm in my 40's). Chances are that on your journey to Blue Belt, you probably got hurt or injured several times which forced you to take time off.

Paying for doctor’s visits on top of mat fees isn’t doing any favors for your wallet, and provides yet another reason to quit. Keep in mind if you do get injured this may take away from your household duties, dedication to a business or work, extra curricular activities or being a parent.

Newsflash: Most blue belts actually think they know enough Jiu Jitsu to be considered as a dangerous martial arts practitioner. Perhaps there are some blue belts who compete in MMA or have wrestled with a person who does not know Jiu Jitsu and felt the surge of power that comes with submitting someone who does not think BJJ works. People in MMA (BTW) train in a completely different manner and when you throw punches and kicks in the mix it changes everything. I think if you took 80% of the people in your garden variety BJJ school and threw them in a 5 Minute round with punches and kicks they would look at fighting a bit differently. Lets not stray off topic too much...

Here are 5 general reasons blue belts quit BJJ:

1. Lack of Progression

One of the main reasons blue belts quit BJJ is because they feel that they are not progressing as fast as they would like. BJJ is a complex martial art, and it takes time to master the techniques and develop muscle memory. As a result, some blue belts may feel frustrated when they are not able to execute moves correctly or defeat opponents during sparring. This feeling of stagnation can lead them to lose interest and ultimately quit.

To avoid this, it's important to remember that progress in BJJ is not linear. Some days you will feel like you are making huge strides, while on others, it may seem like you're not improving at all. It's essential to stay patient and trust the process.

2. Injury

Another common reason blue belts quit BJJ is due to injuries. BJJ can be a physically demanding sport, and injuries are common, especially for beginners. While some injuries may be minor and easily healed with rest, others can be more severe and require a longer recovery time.

Injuries can not only be physically taxing but also mentally draining. They may cause blue belts to miss classes and fall behind in their training, leading them to feel discouraged and lose motivation to continue. To prevent injuries, it's important to listen to your body and take necessary precautions during training.

3. Time Commitment

BJJ requires a significant time commitment, with classes ranging from one to two hours. For some blue belts, this can be challenging to balance with work, family, and other responsibilities. As a result, they may feel overwhelmed and decide to quit.

To overcome this challenge, it's important to prioritize and manage your time effectively. This may mean sacrificing some social activities or finding a training schedule that works best for you.

4. Burnout

Training BJJ can be physically and mentally demanding, leading to burnout for blue belts.

If blue belts are not taking enough rest days or overtraining, they may experience burnout. This can result in them feeling unmotivated, physically drained, and ultimately quitting BJJ. It's crucial to listen to your body and take necessary breaks to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy training routine.

5. Change in Interests

Lastly, blue belts may quit BJJ because their interests have shifted. It's not uncommon for people to try out different activities and hobbies before finding the one they are truly passionate about.

While BJJ may seem exciting at first, it's possible that blue belts may discover other interests or goals that they want to pursue instead. This change in interest is a natural part of personal growth and shouldn't be seen as a failure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are various reasons why blue belts may quit BJJ, from feeling frustrated with their progress to burnout or a change in interests. However, it's important to remember that every journey is different and that setbacks and challenges are all part of the learning process.

Look, most things worth doing in life aren’t easy, mastery of Jiu Jitsu included. The best thing to do to make sure you don’t quit after Blue is to take things slow. Take breaks if you need to, and enjoy the process. Learn at your own pace and don’t let anyone rope you into writing checks your body can’t cash. Train smart, take your time and learn, your body will thank you.

Train Safe & Train Often,

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

Let’s say you had a pretty hard competition-style training session. The mats are glistening with everybody’s sweat and class has just ended. What do you do? Do you head out with everyone else, or do you spend a little extra time after class to help clean the mats? In fact, whose responsibility is it to clean the mats in the first place?

Sure, some might say it’s the Professor’s responsibility to clean the mats since they own the school; however, let’s first think about a similar scenario!

Shopping carts in a supermarket parking lot.

After you use a shopping cart to move all your months supply of Acai and ketogenic alkaline no carb mineral water to your vehicle, I assume you would take the time to put the cart back in the return area, right? Sure you could leave the shopping cart for someone else to gather up or leave it to the store workers to take care of it. Even if that stray cart found its way into the side of a parked vehicle, you could even say that it’s not your fault; it’s the store worker’s responsibility to do so, right? They’re getting paid to do it, right? Sure, the argument is fair, but putting the cart back to its proper area takes very little time, makes life easier for the store’s workers, and keeps the vehicles in the parking lot safe from damage. There’s so little personal cost to putting away your shopping cart… you’re kind of a dick for not putting away a cart. Same goes for people that refuse to pick up the mops and brooms after class.

Much like storing away your shopping cart after use, cleaning the mats after class is something that benefits yourself, your training partners, and your Professor(s) with extremely little time invested.

In fact the more people that help out the shorter it will take to clean even a large mat space.

It may take 3 minutes if 2 people jump in and get this done! Look, it’s easy to complain like a child whenever it comes to doing your chores, but if there’s one thing our parent art, Judo, does well, it’s ensuring clean training environments.

Typically in Judo schools, it’s understood that cleaning the mats is something that benefits everyone in the room and students will do it without any question. Sure, you’re ‘paying’ to do Jiu Jitsu, but if you want to pay a dedicated cleaning service to clean the mats, you know damn well it will be coming out of your monthly dues.

What would happen if you never cleaned the mats in a BJJ school?

The answer is simple – it can lead to serious health risks for both students and instructors.

Firstly, dirty and unmaintained mats can become breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. Sweat, oils, skin cells and other bodily fluids left on the mat from training sessions create an environment where harmful microorganisms can thrive. These can then be easily transferred onto the skin of those who come into contact with the mats, increasing their risk of infections such as ringworm, staph infections, and even MRSA.

In addition to this, not cleaning the mats can also lead to unpleasant odors.

The accumulation of sweat and other bodily fluids on the mat can create a foul smell that can be off-putting for students and instructors alike. This can result in a negative training environment and decrease the overall enjoyment of the sport.

Moreover, failure to clean the mats regularly can also affect the durability and quality of the mats themselves.

Oils from skin cells and sweat can build up over time, causing damage to the material of the mats and reducing their lifespan. This means additional costs for replacing or repairing them, which could have been avoided with proper maintenance.

But perhaps most importantly, not cleaning the mats is a sign of disrespect towards one's training partners and the BJJ community as a whole. Keeping the mats clean is not only for personal hygiene but also shows consideration and care for others who use the space. It is important to remember that in BJJ, we work together as a team to improve our skills, and maintaining cleanliness is part of being a responsible member of the community.

In conclusion, neglecting to clean the mats in a BJJ school can have serious consequences. Not only does it pose health risks, but it also affects the overall training environment and shows disrespect towards fellow practitioners. Regularly cleaning and maintaining the mats should be an essential part of any BJJ school's routine in order to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved in the sport. So, it is important to always prioritize cleanliness and hygiene in our training spaces. By doing so, we can continue to enjoy the many benefits of practicing BJJ while also promoting a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Running a Jiu Jitsu school isn’t an easy job. In between the day to day struggle of marketing, teaching, and answering any and all of your guard retention questions, they probably have to pick up the slack and clean the entire mat space and equipment day in and day out. It’s not easy cleaning all those surfaces. Much like the store workers that can’t catch all the shopping carts, your overworked Professors could easily have missed spots that could’ve been covered if some of the students helped out. If helping your school out isn’t something that really makes sense to you, then why get mad at stray shopping carts scuffing up your car, or getting nasty bacterial infection on the mats?

Just Sayin, Anonymous White Belt

In many Jiu Jitsu classes, you’ll see Purple Belts show up late regardless of the academy. After the white and blue belts finish shrimping up and down the mat, you’ll see the Purple Belts step in through the door, nonchalantly taping their fingers and putting on their gi. Even though the official start time of class was 15 minutes ago, they don’t seem hurried, as if they’re right on time. What gives? Why do Purple Belts skip warmups?

If you’ve earned a Purple Belt, chances are you’ve trained for about half a decade. In that time, after thousands of warmups, it gets tiring and boring to even attend. By Purple Belt, your shrimp is probably developed enough that another 20 up and down the mats isn’t going to do much to help make space while in side control. After doing Jiu Jitsu for a while, some of the magic is simply gone, and you just want to cut to the chase and do Jiu Jitsu. Could it be said Purple Belts are missing out on anything by skipping on warm ups? The answer is yes!

Leadership is important and being an example for all who participate is also important! Its imperative to get every second of time on the mat. Warming up is also a very important part of being optimal in any sport.

Why warm ups are important in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu?

As with any physical activity, warm-ups are an essential part of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) training. They prepare your body for the intense movements and techniques that you will perform during a class or competition. But why exactly are warm-ups important in BJJ? In this section, we will explore the reasons behind the importance of warm-ups in this martial art.

Reduces Risk of Injury

Warm-ups help prevent injuries by preparing your muscles, joints, and ligaments for the physical demands of BJJ. By gradually increasing your heart rate, blood flow and body temperature, you are preparing your body for the stress and strain that comes with grappling. This helps to loosen up tight muscles and improve flexibility, reducing the risk of strains and sprains. Additionally, warm-ups also increase joint lubrication, making it easier to perform techniques without straining your joints.

Increases Performance

A proper warm-up not only prepares your body physically but also mentally. It helps to improve focus and concentration, allowing you to perform at your best during training or competition. By getting your heart rate up and increasing blood flow, warm-ups also deliver oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, helping them function at their optimum level. This can result in better performance, especially when executing complex BJJ techniques.

Enhances Learning

Warm-ups are not just a physical preparation, but they also serve as an opportunity for learning. In BJJ, many warm-up drills mimic the movements and techniques used during actual training or competition. This allows you to practice and refine your technique, coordination, and timing in a controlled environment before applying them during live sparring sessions. By incorporating BJJ-specific movements into warm-ups, you can also improve muscle memory and overall skill development.

Fosters Camaraderie

BJJ is not just about individual training; it is also a highly social sport. Warm-ups serve as a bonding experience for teammates, encouraging a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. By working together through warm-up exercises, you are building trust and communication skills with your training partners. This can also translate into better performance during live sparring sessions where teamwork and communication play crucial roles.

Here is an idea... In most cases, a Purple Belt just wants to roll. With any skill, the concept of diminishing returns becomes a very real thing. Novices such as White Belts can see DRASTIC improvement simply by getting through the warm ups. Purple Belts on the other hand have already put in their reps, and as such don’t really benefit from the basic drills. The 100,000th shrimp (hip escape) won’t have as much of a benefit as the first 1,000, and at that point the Purple Belt's time would be better spent on other areas of their game.

Its also safe to say that purple belts have more injuries than any other rank! Why??

(future article)

At Purple Belt, the journey becomes much more self directed. It is said that Purple Belts rely less on their professor after blue belt. Much like a Master’s or PhD student pursuing their research, a Purple Belt should be doing their own study of Jiu Jitsu. Much like a Professor at a University, the Professor at the Academy will move into a more advisory role for the Purple Belt, pointing them the way to go, but not holding their hand through the process. However Purple Belts in many ways are still beginners in a lifetime of learning,

Whatever the case may be, missing a warmup here and there isn’t going to matter as long as you keep showing up consistently. I would like to add that if you want to be a positive role model for lower belts its important to participate in all segments of class.

Just a thought…

Train Safe & Train Often, (and warm up) =)

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com

In this article we will explore the type of professor you may (or may not) have. Our goal is to open the eyes of Jiu Jitsu practitioners and help students decide if they should perhaps seek instruction elsewhere, but also to nudge professors to step up and get more involved keeping students for the long term!

Nobody said teaching Jiu Jitsu was easy. Students have different body types, are different ages, have different rates of learning and require different types of attention. We also need to keep in mind the school’s owner may have large class sizes and therefor endures a lot of responsibility.

The real question is "can you rely on your professor for true guidance on the mats"?

Let’s first look at the different types of schools.

We have your big brand, well known school that has a location in almost every major city (think Gracie Barra or 10th Planet). These schools tend to have hundreds of students and are packed with kid’s classes. Adult classes usually are at noon or in the evenings (6-8pm) and generally have 2-3 (or more) black belts on the mat at a time. These schools are competition focused, however not all may be true self-defense or MMA-type schools. (This is not to say that sport Jiu Jitsu won’t help you in a fight at purple belt level or above, but if you paired these higher belt people against people who also train MMA, I think we know who you would put your money on… just sayin’!)

There are your boutique schools that may or may not be affiliated with a big brand, however they have their own name- such as "Forged Iron Jiu Jitsu" or "thinking flows". There usually is a large class for kids and the same schedule mentioned above for adults (noon and 6-8pm). There maybe even a morning class for those who want to train before work to get their Jiu Jitsu craving out of the way. These people also compete and most likely are focused on the practical or street use of BJJ. A lot even have MMA classes.

There are your mini (independent?) schools that may be in a person’s garage or 3rd bedroom. This type of school has limited space and is most likely not a candidate for this discussion but let’s pretend it is. This type of school likely teaches private classes, has a handful of students (10 or so) and hosts open mats to practice with fellow Jiu jitsu enthusiasts.

You have your blended schools where they offer BJJ or MMA as part of the overall curriculum, however they are most likely not a competition Jiu Jitsu school. This may be a karate school that includes ground fighting or a hired a black belt in Jiu Jitsu to offer BJJ because of both its popularity and effectiveness.

OK- Here is the real question Does your professor know “your game” and has he/she taken a direct interest in helping you to improve? Do they teach class and make sure they are always available? Do they focus on only a few students that they favor and are these students the best in the school? Do you often feel lost during class? Do you feel like when the professor says you’re doing a technique correctly it still does not feel like it’s working?

HERE’S AN IDEA (For blue belts and above, because let’s be honest, white belts do not really have a game yet...do they?) The next time you’re in class, try asking your professor the following: "What are my strengths in BJJ, what’s my game (or what are the holes in my game) and how can I improve?" If he or she says "let’s see you roll" or "the next time you roll ill dial in a bit more" or "let me think about that and get back to you" it probably means he or she simply doesn’t know (and maybe has not been paying attention).

DISCLAIMER: This is not to say he or she does not care (I hope). It’s simply that they do not know.

EXAMPLES OF WHAT WE PERHAPS SHOULD BE HEARING: "John, you play open guard a lot and are stuck on lasso a bit much. You grip wrong and don’t have the hip movement to address the toreando pass, nor the flexibility to invert if that happens. You need to tighten up your triangles because your entries are improving, but you’re simply not finishing, and you get stacked and passed a lot. Ill teach better triangles next week and we can work on how to tighten up your game a bit" or " you have a great closed guard, but you do not break posture enough. You should start controlling the upper body the moment you close your guard. Once you sweep or start your attacks, I feel like you are more comfortable. Why not start drilling open guard and play with the idea of evolving your game?" THESE ARE GREAT RESPONSES BY A PROFESSOR WHO KNOWS EXACTLY WHAT THEIR STUDENTS ARE DOING!

EXAMPLE OF WHAT WE PERHAPS SHOULD NOT BE HEARING: John you should "drill more" or "you need more mat time" or "how often do you train?" or "we should focus on that and schedule a private lesson" or "keep training, it will all come together" or "you should compete". (Ok ... "keep training" is a generally a good recommendation, but not the specific response a professor should be replying to your cry for help)

Another question we should perhaps ask is should professors really take an interest in all their students? This is debatable. Every student may train Jiu Jitsu for different reasons. Some do it to stay fit or out of boredom, some do it for self-defense reasons, and some do it for social reasons.

Not everybody cares about being better at Jiu Jitsu. (sadly)

In every school there is a person who NEVER GETS BETTER (maybe this is hypothetical). This person simply shows up and for whatever reason has taken a lot longer to level up if they have leveled up at all.

In my opinion a Jiu Jitsu professor should give each student attention. A school should have a sense of direction and a curriculum. A professor should know their students’ strengths and weaknesses, and constantly give them tasks, drills and goals to improve; otherwise, we may end up having to learn on our own or the so called “level up” process is in the hands of the leader of our ninja clan…

Train Safe and Train Often,

Matthew Tropp | BJJ Report

Info@bjjreport.com