WHY BEGINNERS GET OVERWHELMED
The most overwhelming aspect of Jiu-Jitsu at the beginning is NOT just the number of techniques, positions, submissions, concepts…
It’s survival.
So many beginner students obsess over super advanced flying submissions they see on Instagram…
When they really should be focusing on the foundations, defense and understanding what is happening.
In fact – I think that everything else is a distraction…
And it actually slows down your progress. You spend time watching advanced "moves" without the understanding of how to get to the position to do the "cool move".
Because your attention is not focused where it should be – survival and incremental progress. The old story "eating a whale one bite at a time" - think how long it will take if you learn Jiu-Jitsu if it's done one trick at a time.
You will not learn solid Jiu-Jitsu this way yet if you learn how to frame properly, sound fundamental defense you set yourself up for long term success!
A student who can perform a flying armbar but NOT escape side control will undoubtedly be destroyed…
There is good news…
Most of these techniques within solid fundamentals can be learned quite quickly. Learning solid fundamentals without mindless intensity will help you get past the early stages of panic… so you can progress with intention.
Focus on development of incremental skills and understanding positional awareness
Why defense can often be the best – and quickest – way to submit your opponent
How to retain guard when you're lacking in mobility (because of age, injuries, good looks)
A sneaky – and simple – way to take the back of an aggressive opponent as they start passing your guard
Mobility development under control can make your guard almost un-passable
Pick three major submissions to know from your favorite positions and develop a working game from there
The most successful long term students do this!
