Here are some common mistakes that can prevent improvement on the mats (and how to fix them):
1. You have an inconsistent training routine.
When pursuing a long-term practice like Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, you need to be consistent with your training. If you feel like you’ve stopped making progress, take a look at your training history. Is it consistent, or is there room for improvement? Steady and sustainable progress in BJJ comes from consistent practice. Commit to your training, and you’ll make improvements.
2. You expect constant improvement.
While a consistent practice will lead to improvement, you still must manage your expectations around your progress. In your training, you’ll experience periods of huge gains. At other times, it might feel like your training has fallen flat and you’ve hit a plateau. You’re not alone in feeling this way. Yes, it’s frustrating. But remember that you can’t expect constant or even steady improvement. Be patient with the process, and the progress will eventually come.
3. You haven’t set any martial arts goals.
One reason you might feel like you haven’t improved could be a lack of goals. If you’re not working toward a specific objective, you won’t know if you’ve made progress. Or it will be hard to gauge that improvement. So instead, set SMART martial arts goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based.
4. You’re too comfortable with your current routine.
If you become too comfortable with your current routine or training habits, then you’ll likely stop seeing progress. Perhaps you always use the same techniques and never try anything new. Without challenging yourself to grow, you’re likely to end up bored, frustrated, and stuck in the same place. Challenge yourself to get uncomfortable in your training. Yes, you might make a mistake or not execute perfectly. But going beyond your current limits is how you learn and make progress.
5. You don’t always recover well in between classes.
As long-term Jiu Jitsu practitioners know, your training extends into your daily life. And how you spend time in between classes affects your performance. Recovery is a big part of improvement, so try to follow healthy habits to support your martial arts goals. For example, get quality sleep, drink plenty of water, and make good food choices (most of the time).
