Brazilian jiu-jitsu is much like a maze. There are many branching paths, and no matter which path you choose, the path splits again. How long does it take for you to get lost?
In each position, you have many different options, much like the paths in the maze. Every move you or your opponent makes creates even more options for you. Many of our Mansfield Brazilian jiu-jitsu students run into the same problem of trying to keep track of where you are and what is happening to you.
Most new grapplers struggle with the idea that there are hundreds of techniques, and that each technique is done slightly different by each unique individual; this results in thousands of variations. Sounds overwhelming, doesn’t it? The best way to keep from getting overwhelmed lies in an old Chinese proverb, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with one small step.”
Begin your journey by getting a big picture of the entire art of jiu-jitsu first and foremost. Understanding the importance of the big picture allows you to understand what is happening to you. Even if you’re getting your butt kicked, you can still try to understand how it’s happening, and it’s these times that you will begin to appreciate the most. As you end up in various positions, try to identify each one.
By using that map, you can find your way out of any maze.