Recently one of my White Belts asked for tips on remembering techniques when he rolled. He said that there is so much stuff going on, and he can’t remember techniques when he rolls. He just brain farts.
In this video I share an analogy about how BJJ is like music in a way and I explain how it’s a little different than what you might expect. And you should not try SO HARD to remember techniques.
Many people who are new to BJJ start by trying to develop the ability to consciously memorize techniques during rolling. When in fact, it doesn’t happen like that. We call it muscle memory for a reason.
More often than not. Your body will figure out how to put it all together well before you can consciously think about what exactly you’re doing. This is why someone can execute a technique without being able to appropriately break it down and teach it to someone else.
If you do end up being able to consciously think about the techniques when you roll, it’s usually an afterthought. The move has already started and it’s just a fleeting thought in your brain.
In most cases, if you have to think about the technique you plan to use too much. It’s too late and your opportunity will be lost..
Saulo Riberio has a great quote, “If you think, you are late. If you are late, you use strength. If you use strength, you tire. If you tire, you die.”
I think what he is touching on is the importance of your body executing techniques in BJJ intuitively. Without having to remember techniques.
In my opinion this intuitive ability is developed through mat time and drilling.
You’ll know you are starting to develop this ability when you begin going off of “feel” opposed to thought.
Also, if you’re new to BJJ. Be ready for the occasional “Aha” moments that will occur from time to time. Where things seem to fall into place.
I share in the video that doing BJJ is like playing an instrument.
As a musician feels the music and knows exactly which chords to pluck just off instinct. The more your abilities in BJJ develop. You’ll find yourself doing things, not because you thought about them, but because they felt right.
So stop stop trying remember techniques as a BJJ White Belt. Remember what you can and be sure to drill your techniques a lot, and let your body do the rest. Don’t let the mind get in the way.
Hope the video is helpful!
-Chewy
