By: Logan C. (BJJ Purple Belt & coach) Posted: 5/28/24
Key Takeaways
- How often should I train BJJ: Start with 2-3 training sessions per week when you first begin to learn the basics and adapt physically to the new workout.
- Optimal BJJ Training: Training 4+ times per week is optimal for learning BJJ at a faster rate, improving physical shape, and losing weight.
- Rest & Recovery: Always listen to your body. It’s crucial to take recovery days to avoid overtraining and reduce the risk of injuries.
Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is an exciting step towards improving your physical fitness and learning self-defense. But one common question many beginners have is: “How often should I train?” As someone, who has been training BJJ since 2017, I am here to offer my advice to beginners.
1. Competition Improves Your BJJ Skills
Train Harder and More Focused
When a competition is on the horizon, training sessions become more intense and purposeful. The looming event pushes you to refine your techniques, tighten your game, and eliminate weaknesses. This heightened focus can lead to rapid improvement in your jiu-jitsu skills, as every roll in practice carries the weight of upcoming matches.
Real-Time Application of Techniques
Competing provides a unique opportunity to apply techniques in a high-pressure environment. It’s one thing to execute a move in class, but successfully applying it against a resisting opponent in competition is a different challenge. This experience can reveal gaps in your game and highlight areas for improvement, ultimately making you a more well-rounded practitioner.
2. Enhanced Physical Conditioning
Commitment to Better Shape
With a competition date set, your dedication to physical conditioning intensifies. You’re less likely to skip training sessions, knowing each one counts toward your preparation. This commitment extends beyond the mat, influencing your overall fitness regimen, including strength and conditioning routines.
Optimal Health and Fitness
Training for a competition often involves extra conditioning workouts, healthier eating habits, and better sleep patterns. This holistic approach not only prepares you for the event but also improves your general health and physical fitness, making you a stronger, more resilient athlete.
3. Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone
Embrace the Emotional Rollercoaster
Competing in BJJ elicits a wide range of emotions, from anxiety and nervousness to excitement and exhilaration. Stepping into this emotional whirlwind pushes you out of your comfort zone, fostering personal growth and resilience. Overcoming these feelings can build mental toughness that translates to other areas of life.
Breaking Routine
For those juggling work, family, and personal obligations, it’s easy to fall into a comfortable routine. Competing disrupts this pattern, offering a refreshing change and a chance to challenge yourself in new ways. Whether you win or lose, the experience can be a powerful reminder of your capabilities and potential.
4. Building Camaraderie and Community
Strengthen Team Bonds
Preparing for a competition often involves training closely with teammates, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual support. The shared goal of competition brings practitioners closer, building lasting bonds that enrich your BJJ journey.
Networking and Friendships
Competitions bring together practitioners from various schools and backgrounds. This diverse environment offers opportunities to network, make new friends, and learn from others. The BJJ community is known for its supportive and friendly nature, and competing can expand your connections within this tight-knit group.
5. Measuring Progress and Setting New Goals
Benchmark Your Skills
Competition provides a clear benchmark for your current skill level. It allows you to see how you measure up against others and highlights both your strengths and areas needing improvement. This honest assessment is invaluable for setting realistic and achievable goals for your BJJ progression.
Motivation for Continued Growth
The experience of competing often reignites passion and motivation for training. It sets a new standard for what you can achieve and inspires you to push further. The lessons learned on the competition mat can drive you to continue evolving and improving in your BJJ practice.
FAQs
Q: s it worth competing even if I don’t win?
Absolutely. The experience of competing offers valuable lessons, regardless of the outcome. I have lost every match in a tournament before and was still happy I competed that day. Of course, you want to win and can be a bummer but I always find myself glad i went out and challenged myself. It challenges you, promotes personal growth, and can reignite your passion and motivation for BJJ.
For more information on our BJJ program in Iowa City and updates on our new school, visit our Citadel BJJ Blog.
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Author Box:
I’m Logan, a purple belt and fundamentals coach at Citadel BJJ in Iowa City. As an assistant kids coach with competition experience across the USA, I’ve been grappling since 2017. My focus is on building a strong foundation for beginners and fostering a supportive environment for all students.
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