Different Levels of Intensity in Training

To get the most out of each session it becomes important to identify three different aspects of jiu-jitsu when rolling with a partner. Learning, Training and Competing. Like all concepts there is heaps of overlap bewteen these areas but so often I see novice grapplers always driving the car in top gear to the detriment of their and their training partners development.

Firstly then there is play, going light, which in my book equates to experiement without consequence. Try stuff and see what happens, let yourself into bad spots and tap if required. No big deal. Play is a huge part of learning and it teaches you to relax and improves sensitivity and timing. If you cant let yourself do this on a mat because your ego is too easily bruised then it impedes progress greatly and doesnt make you a good training partner. Remember this IS a team sport. You can be only as good as your training partners.

Next is just plain old wrasslin at the end of class which is competitive and against a resisting opponent but still about learning and not just winning. Trying to apply things you have learnt and expanding weaker areas of your game. But this is still not a match or competition in the truest sense, there are no refs, time varies and so do the rules. But you do have a contest, but no-one actually cares if you win or lose. This level is all about problem-solving. Again understanding this second level will make you a better training partner.

Lastly, of course, their is a genuine match, time limits, rules, points, scoreboards, refs, spectators, trophies etc. This is a true test. It can occur at training or at a tournament. Putting it on the line. Getting the angry eyes out and meaning business. Small mistakes can lead to big consequences. Performing when the lights are on you. Often I have seen guys treat a comp like a training session getting into bad spots before putiing their foot on the gas or leaving things too late and time runs out. They may have been more skilled than their opponent but didnt "switch on" in time. So next time you have a match practice in training bring your A game from the start. This is invaluable experience for tournaments. Dont wait and see what happens, go out and make it happen. Action beats Reaction everytime. Competing is about winning the contest.

Keep your training partner in mind and decide what intenisty level is best for the both of you to get the most out of training, smashing a smaller less experienced partner is not an exercise in learning. Also a more experienced grappler may be in play mode whilst his partner might be going flat chat to just stay competitive. So two people may be in completely different zones. Realise the difference in the goals and expectations of each wrassle.

Dont forsake technical progress just because you have the desire to constantly compete, but conversely, you must also retain the ability to pull the trigger when it actually counts. This can be a delicate balancing act but critical to your success as a grappler. Stories abound of superstars in the gym who couldnt put it together on the day and also guys who get smashed at training but turn it up when it really counts.