Build Your Foundation On Technique

For each person that trains jiujitsu or any martial art there are certain techniques and movements that come easier then others.  We have all seen the muscle bound meat heads who walk into the gym to train “UFC” or learn how to “fight”.  Many of these individuals develop their jiujitsu game around their physical attributes be that strength, size, flexibility, etc.  While no one who has ever been in a physical altercation will argue that strength is never a factor it can be said that technique can even the playing field.  I take the approach that one should develop their jiujitsu around good solid technique and then add their physical attributes on top, the icing on the cake so to speak.  We all strive for perfect technique.  It is something that high level jiujitsu practioners exhibit, and something we all want.  I believe the student of jiujitsu who has success is the one who develops good, clean, solid technique and then adds the other elements to the recipe.  Speed, strength, endurance or any number of physical traits that may give you an edge.  In my limited experience on the mats the guy that does not take the time to develop good technique is generally the guy who does not last with jiujitsu.  I believe this is because that person may do well at first, they will use their strength, speed, flexibility, or whatever to dominate people who have similar experience levels on the mats.  As time goes on those who may not be all that strong are forced to develop good technique and as a result they start to catch up to that super strong guy. Said guy gets frustrated and quits.  We have all seen the revolving door of people who will train for a month or two never to be seen again.  I believe this is a big reason why.  That and the fact that jiujitsu is just hard in general.  It takes a lot of humility to be willing to return to the mats after getting tapped out by someone 50 lbs lighter then you.  So to reiterate, in order to have a successful jiujitsu “recipe” first add technique and never stop refining that technique and then add the natural abilities that you already have.