Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is an intricate martial art requiring patience, strategy, and precision. Many beginners and even experienced practitioners struggle with common mistakes that hinder progress. At 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Dallas, we help students refine their No-Gi techniques efficiently. In this guide, we’ll explore frequent BJJ mistakes and how to fix them, accelerating your development on the mats.
Mistake #1: Relying Too Much on Strength
BJJ is known as the “gentle art” for a reason—it prioritizes leverage and technique over brute strength. Many beginners instinctively use strength to force positions, which exhausts energy quickly and leads to ineffective grappling.
How to Fix It:
- Focus on body positioning and leverage.
- Use controlled breathing to conserve energy.
- Practice rolling with lighter training partners to develop technique rather than force.
Mistake #2: Holding Your Breath
Breath control is a fundamental yet overlooked aspect of BJJ. Many students unknowingly hold their breath during rolls, leading to faster fatigue and reduced mental clarity.
How to Fix It:
- Be mindful of your breathing, especially in high-pressure situations.
- Inhale through your nose and exhale slowly to regulate oxygen flow.
- Incorporate breathwork exercises into your training routine.
Mistake #3: Neglecting Defense
New students often focus on flashy submissions and aggressive attacks, neglecting their defensive skills. However, a strong defense is the foundation of a solid BJJ game.
How to Fix It:
- Prioritize escapes and positional awareness.
- Train defensive drills regularly.
- Avoid panicking when caught in submissions—stay calm and work on technical escapes.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Hip Movement
Hips play a crucial role in BJJ, whether executing sweeps, maintaining guard, or escaping submissions. Poor hip mobility leads to inefficient movements and limited options in a roll.
How to Fix It:
- Practice shrimping (hip escape drills) consistently.
- Engage your core and hips when executing movements.
- Focus on fluid, controlled transitions rather than rigid actions.
Mistake #5: Overcommitting to One Game Plan
While having a go-to strategy is essential, overcommitting to a single approach makes your game predictable. A well-rounded grappler adapts to various situations and opponents.
How to Fix It:
- Experiment with different positions and techniques.
- Be open to learning from all training partners, regardless of size or skill level.
- Analyze your rolls and identify areas where you need versatility.
Mistake #6: Poor Guard Retention
Losing guard easily is a common frustration for beginners. Without proper guard retention, opponents can pass quickly, putting you in a defensive scramble.
How to Fix It:
- Maintain active legs and good hip mobility.
- Use frames and grips effectively to control your opponent.
- Drill guard retention techniques regularly, such as knee shields and lasso guards.
Mistake #7: Not Tapping Early Enough
Ego can be a dangerous thing in BJJ. Some students resist tapping, leading to unnecessary injuries and setbacks.
How to Fix It:
- Accept that tapping is a learning tool, not a failure.
- Recognize submission setups early to improve your defense.
- Prioritize longevity and health over short-term pride.
Mistake #8: Skipping Warm-Ups and Mobility Work
A proper warm-up prepares your body for rolling, while mobility drills enhance flexibility and injury prevention.
How to Fix It:
- Arrive early to class and engage in dynamic stretching.
- Incorporate yoga or functional mobility exercises into your routine.
- Focus on joint mobility, especially for shoulders, hips, and knees.
Mistake #9: Training Too Hard Without Rest
Overtraining without adequate recovery can lead to burnout, injuries, and stalled progress.
How to Fix It:
- Listen to your body and take rest days when needed.
- Balance hard training sessions with lower-intensity drills.
- Prioritize quality over quantity in your training schedule.
Mistake #10: Not Asking Questions
Many students hesitate to ask instructors or training partners for guidance, slowing their progress.
How to Fix It:
- Take advantage of instructor expertise—ask for clarifications after class.
- Watch high-level competitors and analyze their techniques.
- Be proactive in learning; don’t wait for knowledge to come to you.
FAQ: Common Questions About Improving in BJJ
How long does it take to get good at BJJ?
Progress depends on consistency, effort, and quality instruction. Most practitioners see noticeable improvements within 6–12 months of regular training.
Should I train Gi or No-Gi first?
Since 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu focuses on No-Gi training, we recommend starting with No-Gi techniques to adapt to faster-paced grappling and modern submissions.
How often should I train to improve quickly?
Training 3–4 times per week with focused drilling and sparring will yield steady improvement while minimizing burnout.
What’s the best way to track my BJJ progress?
- Keep a training journal.
- Record sparring sessions for review.
- Set short-term and long-term goals.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common BJJ mistakes will accelerate your progress and make your training more effective. At 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Dallas, we provide expert instruction to help you refine your technique and build a solid foundation in No-Gi grappling.
