1. Show up
Frequency beats intensity. Even one session every week is better than intensely training 4 days in a row only to disappear for months.
2. Take notes
Your brain forgets. Use a notebook or phone memo to help with recall. Note down key details of techniques, and common mistakes.
Study positions. Don’t just study submissions. Understand the mechanics and objectives of different positions e.g. side control, mount, closed guard.
3. Ask questions
Don’t just drill; understand why. Why did that work? Why didn’t that work? What if I do this?
4. Apply what you learn
Immediately after drilling a technique, try to apply it in your rolls. Don’t worry about winning – focus on execution. Each failed attempt provides valuable feedback. Analyze what went wrong and adjust.
5. Pick one thing
Before rolling, pick one thing to focus on. e.g. “Today I’ll work on my guard retention.” or “Today I’ll try to get to mount from every position.”
6. Accumulate mat time
Build muscle memory. Every session, no matter how you feel, is a deposit into your skill bank.
7. Don’t rely on motivation
Schedule your training. Treat it like an appointment you can’t miss.
Remove friction. Prep your gi and belt the night before.
Get started.
Pick one habit from this post and implement it this week!