Many who love jiu jitsu say the only thing better than practicing jiu jistu is practicing jiu jitsu well. Patience is the most important trait of people who want to improve their movement and technique in this martial art. Skill doesn't come overnight. However, those who want to improve sooner than later can accelerate their development by training with a few basic concepts in mind. You won't be perfect for every throw, but you'll find you improve faster than if you didn't use these practices.
Step 1
Attend class at least twice per week. You can't improve your jiu jitsu movement if you don't go to class. This is where your teacher gets a chance to observe you practicing with a live partner and correct your mistakes in movement and understanding.
Step 2
Practice as often as possible. Unlike many other martial arts, jiu jitsu is best practiced with a live partner in a competitive environment. Most jiu jitsu schools will have open practice time available in addition to their guided training sessions. Take advantage of them.
Step 3
Stretch your muscles and roll your joints, both before practice and during idle hours such as while watching television. Improving your range of motion and flexibility will make performing your jiu jitsu moves easier and improve how well you can take it when others perform them on you.
Step 4
Relax into your technique. Relaxed muscles are faster, stronger and more sensitive than tense muscles. Although this can be a tall order in the middle of a competitive match, relaxing may be the most important habit you can develop to improve your technique.
Step 5
Exercise outside of class. Do body weight exercises like yoga or calisthenics, as well as cardiovascular training like running or swimming. Improving your strength and endurance will improve your performance on the mat.
Step 6
Move from your hips and core with every technique. It's a common mistake in jiu jitsu to power your moves with your arms. Instead, visualize your arms as hooks that you push and control by twisting at the hips and waist. This allows you to get your whole body into each move, rather than just your arms.
Step 7
Eliminate space wherever you find it. The less room you give your opponent to move, the better your technique will be. As you practice your techniques, look for spaces wide enough to see light through. If you find them, adjust your position until they are gone.
References
- "USJA Basic JuJitsu Manual"; Phillip Porter; 1996
- Jason Brick; USJA Jiu Jitsu Black Belt, 3rd Degree; Hillsboro, Oregon
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