BJJ Beginner Series: How to Easily Remember Techniques
Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many techniques, positions and topics to learn, it’s easy to feel lost or forget what you practiced during class. However, remembering techniques doesn’t have to be a struggle. By incorporating some effective strategies into your workout routine, you can easily remember and master the techniques you are learning. In this article we will explore several methods to improve retention during BJJ training.
Plan ahead
Before we look at the strategies below, it is important to note that planning ahead before starting training is a critical step in systematizing your understanding of Jiu-Jitsu. BJJ is a complicated art with many moving parts, and focusing on multiple things at once can be detrimental to your development. Before class begins, it’s a good idea to focus on just a few areas so you can focus on your learning. Choose a few positions or techniques and do your best to best understand the underlying mechanisms. Doing this can help you better appreciate the intricacies of BJJ’s many movements. Now, with that said, let’s look at the best ways to help memorize techniques in BJJ.
Advice from André Galvão
In this video, BJJ legend Andre Galvao shares his thoughts on how to memorize techniques. He is considered one of the best competitors and coaches in history. Here is his perspective on learning and improving Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Regular perforation
Drilling is the backbone of learning in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. When you perform a technique repeatedly, you begin to develop muscle memory, which allows you to perform the movement instinctively in live sparring or competition. Think of the drill as programming your body to automatically react when certain situations arise. The more you practice, the more the movement becomes ingrained in your muscle memory, making it easier to remember during a match.
For beginners, it is essential to approach drilling with focus and intention. Instead of mindlessly performing the movements, pay attention to the details of the technique. You will retain information more effectively by actively engaging in technique during practice.
It is also helpful to perform the same technique from different angles and positions. This approach not only helps you understand the technique better, but also prepares you for various scenarios where the move can be applied. Over time, as you delve deeper, you will find that remembering the techniques becomes second nature.
Take notes
Another effective way to remember BJJ techniques is to take notes. After class, write down the techniques you learned, including details emphasized by your instructor. This process helps reinforce the information in your mind and serves as a reference that you can revisit later.
When taking notes, try to be as detailed as possible. Describe the steps of the technique, the key points, and any specific suggestions provided by your instructor. Some professionals find it helpful to include drawings or diagrams to visualize the movements. While writing things down may seem old-fashioned, the act of putting what you’ve learned into your own words can significantly improve your understanding and retention of the material.
In addition to technique notes, consider keeping a training journal to note your progress, challenges, and successes. Reflecting on your training experiences can give you insights into areas where you need improvement and help you monitor how your understanding of techniques evolves over time.
Watch the video instructions
In the age of digital media, video instruction is an invaluable tool for BJJ practitioners. Watching technique videos can reinforce what you’ve learned in class and expose you to different variations and perspectives.
When you watch videos, it’s important to do so actively. Instead of passively consuming the content, pause the video frequently to absorb the details and try to visualize yourself performing the technique. Many practitioners find it helpful to watch the same video multiple times, each time focusing on a different aspect of the technique, such as hand placement, body positioning, or transitions.
After watching a video, consider practicing the technique with a partner to solidify your understanding. This hands-on practice, combined with visual learning, can greatly improve your ability to remember and apply techniques in live situations.
Consistent training
Consistency is key in BJJ, especially when it comes to remembering techniques. The more frequently you train, the more opportunities you will have to apply and reinforce what you have learned. Regular training sessions help you stay in touch with the material, prevent rusting and allow you to progressively develop your knowledge.
Inconsistent training can lead to gaps in understanding and make it harder to memorize techniques. If you only practice sporadically, you may find yourself forgetting the details of a technique or having difficulty executing it correctly. On the other hand, consistent practice allows you to revisit techniques regularly, each time perfecting your execution and deepening your understanding.
To make the most of your training sessions, set specific goals for each lesson. For example, you might decide to focus on a particular guard pass or submission during sparring. By setting these goals, you give yourself a clear purpose for each session, which can help you retain the techniques you’re working on.
The role of Tapping in learning
Tapping is an integral part of BJJ and, contrary to what some might think, it is not just a sign of defeat. Indeed, tapping is a powerful learning tool. When you tap on a submission, you gain valuable insights into what went wrong and what you need to improve. Embracing the tapping process allows you to learn from your mistakes and make changes.
Especially for beginners, it is essential to view tapping as a positive experience rather than a negative one. Each time you tap, take a moment to analyze the situation. By reflecting on what forced you to tap, you can identify areas where you need to improve and focus on those aspects during your next training session.
Touch can also help you understand the mechanics of a submission more deeply. For example, if you get caught in an armbar and tap, pay attention to how your opponent applied the submission. This awareness can only make you better appreciate the techniques as a whole.
Integration of techniques into live sparring
Live sparring is where theory meets practice. While practicing, taking notes, and watching videos are all important, sparring is where you can apply what you’ve learned in a dynamic and unpredictable environment. To improve your retention of techniques, make a conscious effort to integrate them into your sparring sessions.
Don’t be discouraged if you have difficulty applying a technique during sparring. Remember, BJJ is a journey and progress takes time. Every attempt, successful or not, contributes to your growth as a grappler.
Remembering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques doesn’t have to be a difficult task. By incorporating the strategies mentioned in this article, you can effectively retain and apply the techniques you learn. The key is to approach training with focus, intention and willingness to learn. With time and dedication, you will find that the techniques you have learned become second nature, allowing you to progress smoothly on your wrestling journey.
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Maybe all this might seem daunting and too much for you, so the best way is to try it. Come into one of our Evolve MMA locations and try our free free trial. We promise that although it may seem daunting at first, with time and practice you will be able to understand what many others could do too. So don’t wait any longer, start now!
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