If you think you have no time to train BJJ, it’s time to think again. There’s a way to train BJJ and still deal with a busy schedule. All you need to do is think outside the box, and maybe even change the box a bit. Here’s how you can fit everything together
Unless you’re a professional grappler, you’re probably pressed for time on any given day. There’s a high likelihood you have a job or school. Furthermore, there’s family, be it wife and kids or your folks at home. Add to that all the stuff life throws in the way and suddenly Jiu-Jitsu is the sacrifice. But it doesn’t have to be so! You can still train BJJ and deal with your hectic schedule at the same time. Let’s take a look at a few tips that can make your life easier, better organized, and with more Jiu-Jitsu in it.
In general, if finding time to train is important to you, you will find the time. Each person on the mat leads a different life and an academy can’t be flexible enough to accommodate everyone’s needs. While some people might be able to train BJJ multiple times a week, others are not so lucky. Academies have to have fixed schedules most of the time, so it is you that is going to have to be flexible. If you are someone who finds it hard to get fit in everyday chores with your Jiu-Jitsu schedule, here are some useful ideas on how to get creative with finding time to train BJJ!
Short And Sweet
Staying for the whole duration of a class is not mandatory. Of course, it is the preferred course of action but sometimes you just can’t make it. It’s okay if you can’t make it for the whole class! Whether it is leaving early or coming in late, there’s just one rule. make sure you show up, no matter how little your stay. If it is an open mat, and you’re there for only 30 minutes, it is 30 minutes of BJJ more for the week. If you can train BJJ for any amount of time in the day, you’ll see progress for sure! Just make sure you consult your instructors. they need to know why you’re late or leaving early. Don’t worry, they know the struggle better than anyone so they’ll understand!
Make it a habit to have a Gi, or at least a rashguard and a pair of spats with you. it can be in the trunk of your car, for situations that you can’t foresee. IF you’re stuck during the day, but a small window opens, just put on your gear and go roll! It won’t take up more than 15-20 minutes of your day and you’ll still reap the benefits of training Jiu-Jitsu.
Quality Time On The Mats
When you know that your time is hard to come by, you must make sure you make the most of it. Especially when you train BJJ, When you show up for training,k whether it is short or full time, make sure you spend your time wisely. Do not just mess around and let your mind wander. Instead, focus and dedicate yourself to becoming better in class. Chatting with your friends in between drills, only translates to less training time for you.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has a lot looser training atmosphere than most arts. Talking and having fun is okay, but not at the expense of your BJJ progress. If you can make it on time to every session, feel free to be looser. but if you’re juggling a dozen daily activities on top of grappling, make your time count. Drill as much as you can. go for as many reps of the technique as you can. When you roll, roll smart, and choose challenging partners. Know what you want to get out of your session and try to go for it on the mats! Â
Solo Drills
It is commonly accepted that you can’t train BJJ alone. While this is true, you can train for Jiu-Jitsu on your own. You do not even have to be in the academy. There are plenty of things you can do at home and all around that can help you improve your grappling skills.
First on the list are movement drills! Movement is the core of Jiu-Jitsu and you work on most BJJ-specific movement patterns without a partner. Grab a yoga mat, mats, or whatever soft surface you can find and get to drilling! If you have no idea what to do, here are some recommendations on both solo and partner BJJ drills. Another option is to look up some on YouTube or just use the warm-ups from class The benefits include better fluidity, muscle memory, and overall BJJ movement.
Also, look to work a bit on Jiu-Jitsu theory. When you train BJJ, it’s not just about the time you spend on the mats. Grab a DVD or two and watch it when you have a break. Or, throw a podcast on your phone and listen to it while you commute. Catch up with the world of BJJ any way you can. IT is only going to make your day more enjoyable.
Train BJJ Outside Of Class
Here’s one idea that definitely falls in the “out of the box category. It includes cooperation from your gym, however. If the gym is open for another class or simply empty,  see if a partner will join you for some training.  Even if there’s a different martial art class at the time, you might get sm mat space to at least drill. This is a great way to add an hour or more to your training time. If you can get to regular class later on then you have double the benefit. If that’s all you can do today, you still did train BJJ. You don’t have to be limited to the scheduled classes. Coming in early and staying later is also great if you can only make it to training on limited occasions.
Talk to your instructor and see if you can get mat time outside of the scheduled times. Schedule a partner and get to work. Some people (mostly those crazy about BJJ) have mats at home a well. Maybe you can arrange an impromptu training session with them so that you don’t have to skip class.
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