We all are networkers. We are born with the capability and connect with others. Connections, however become stronger between those with similar interests. And what stronger bond is there than our love for the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Expanding your Jiu-Jitsu network is very beneficial. It cultivate camaraderie, learning, and growth. Imagine what other techniques you can learn from other practitioners once you get to know them. And for kids, making more friends with those kids coming from different schools. After all, we are all in this together. Right?

Ways to expand your network

There is no need for you to actively seek and expand your network in Jiu-Jitsu. Believe it or not, it just happens naturally. Let time, and training takes its course.

One of the most common places where your Jiu-Jitsu network expands is through other Gracie Barra schools. A trip to another gym, meeting the coaches, and grappling is easy. More so, I personally believe that training with other Gracie Barra schools from time to time removes what I call the “training rut.” Whenever you feel that you are not improving, maybe you can check out other GB schools in the area. You don’t really need to train there, just try and meeting new people.

One of the most travelled Gracie Barra Black Belts that I know has to be Professor Fabio Costa. At one point, we would talk and he’d all the way to the West Coast, the next day in the East Coast. Crazy right. So far, I believe that his BJJ network is so expansive, that he also is friends with other teams and camps.

Being friends with members of other camps is not evil. After all, they also share Master Carlos’ vision of Jiu-Jitsu for everyone, right?

Competitions are also a good way of expanding your network. A simple compliment after a match, whether you choked him, or he choked you, is a sure fire way to expand your network.

Upkeep of Networks

Although, I am not a huge fan of Social Media, I would have to say that it helps a lot in keeping in touch with your network of friends. Status updates are important. But, please do promise that you do more training than punching in characters in your facebook page.

People are also expanding their own network

It’s a good thing: people expanding their network also meet with our expanding network as well. This is where it gets exciting, when people become a part of our network, they also become our resources. Every person is a treasure trove of knowledge and experience. It is good to learn as well from other BJJ artists. It will help us in our Journey.

Remember this: when we expand our network, we become more capable of living the Gracie Barra lifestyle. To which we become ambassadors of the world’s most awesome form of martial art.

JIU JITSU FOR EVERYONE OSS