The first steps towards mastering any technique or area of Jiu-Jitsu training is to be a good partner. Once you do this, everything else will fall into place. Jiu-Jitsu training strategies like this are important, because they not only help you, but they also help the person you are training with. With that being said, let’s take a look at how to become a great Jiu-Jitsu training partner.
Jiu-Jitsu Training Partner Rule #1: Don’t Lag
One of the worst things that any Jiu-Jitsu training partner can be is lazy. Whether that’s getting up from the mat, transition to a new position, or learning a new move- don’t lag. If you train at half-pace then you will only be able to perform moves at half-pace. Drilling is all about simulating a real sparring match as closely as possible. This will help you develop muscle memory for specific skill sets and techniques.
Jiu-Jitsu Training Partner Rule #2: Correct Their Mistakes
If you are training with a partner who is less experienced than you are, then show them where they can improve. Jiu-Jitsu training strategies that involve drilling with a partner mean that you must correct your partner’s mistakes whenever you see one. This is the only way that they are going to get better, which will in turn, make you better as well. If possible, walk them through the specific technique that they are having trouble with.
Jiu-Jitsu Training Partner Rule #3: Be a Good Sport
If your partner has managed to seize a great submission on you, don’t let your ego get in the way – tap. Nothing will slow down you and your partner’s progress than being stubborn when they’ve clearly gotten you in a tight submission, but are unwilling to go the extra step in break your arm or putting you to sleep. And if you do get tapped out, be a good sport, dust yourself off, and continue sparring. That is the only way to become better at Jiu-Jitsu.
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Jiu-Jitsu Training Partner Rule #4: Change Gears with Weaker Partners
When sparring, there is no need to go 100% all of the time against a weaker training partner. They aren’t going to learn anything this way. When rolling with them, allow them to get into dominant positions. This will not only allow you to work on your defensive skills but it also helps them work on offensive techniques. And every now and then, go back to performing at 100%. That way, your partner will get a feel for what a live sparring match might feel like.
Parting Thoughts
One of the biggest Jiu-Jitsu strategies to keep in mind is that you are only as good as the partners you train with. As a result, it is essential that you follow these four simple rules so that you can help your partners’ progress as much as possible, something that will ultimately benefit you as well in the long run.