TFS#13: Don't Be A Dummy

How you drill directly affects how you spar.

But often people don’t pay attention to the reaction they give their drilling partner.

This creates a disconnect between drilling and sparring.

A technique is difficult to incorporate into sparring if the practice is sloppy.

Most people are lazy when they’re not the one’s performing the drill.

If we drill and give minimal resistance or unrealistic reactions, we’re not simulating the real situation.

This habit will hinder our overall growth back.

Focus on fluidity

The way I start drills is to start slow. During the first few attempts, giving minimal resistance is fine.

Eventually, as the drilling partner, you’ll want to engage more actively and give a realistic response.

For example: Let’s say the drill is to have Person B attempt a torreando pass while Person A is to stop the pass and recover their guard. For the first few attempts, Person B will execute the torreando pass to the point where they get to the side of Person A, and pause to give Person A a chance to frame and recover guard. This allows Person A to get warmed up and understand the movement. After a few attempts, Person B will want to become more engaging: instead of pausing to allow Person A to set up, you’ll want to go through the full motion of passing.

This will force Person A to work on their movement and timing.

As you know very well, during sparring, no one is going to half-pass and pause for you.

Pick up the speed of the drill as you get more comfortable.

If Person A messes up and gets passed, that’s ok.

That’s why we drill.

Stay mentally engaged

You shouldn’t be dozing off and allow your mind to wander.

I know life is stressful and it keeps some of us up at night. But that’s why you train Jiu-Jitsu, to help with your focus.

“Let me drill this correctly” should be a regular reminder.

Be thoughtful of your movement and you’ll see where your partner needs improvement.

Be the “outside” eyes for them.

Don't sweat it

Okay, you'll be sweating physically. But don't stress about the drills.

Drills aren’t meant for you to go 100% in speed and strength.

So it’s a “safe environment” to really attempt the technique and fail.

If you’re afraid of messing up during sparring, then let drilling be the place where you fail.

The objective of drilling is simple: move smoothly and develop good form. That’s it.

So here's what you can do:

• Work on smooth movements

• Pay attention, it's just you and your partner moving

• Don't worry about being sloppy

Now, let's start rolling...

Techniques For The Week

1. 6 solo drills to improve mobility
This is a great way to improve your Jiu-Jitsu while you’re in front of the TV.

2. Get a cardio workout anywhere - no equipment necessary
If you can’t make the gym or your returning from an injury, I really like incorporating this fun workout. Again, this can also be done in front of a TV.

3. Improve your body control with these 12 drills
If you have the luxury of a partner, make sure you’re valuing the time you have with them by cranking out these awesome drills. Everyone of all levels will benefit from these movements.

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Food For Thought

You have more influence than you may think.

You’d be surprised at the difference you can make at your gym just by being a better drilling partner.

Closing Thoughts

The easy thing to do is to lay there.

But you didn’t pick up BJJ to do the easy thing.

Taking more initiative for your partner can go a long way.

Make sure you’re both benefitting from class time.

This is an easy way to get the most out of your training.