Why Should You Love Jiu-Jitsu Sparring?
Thoughts on Jiu-Jitsu Live Training and Why You Should Love It
One of the most unique elements of the Jiu-Jitsu training experience is Live Training, or sparring.
This type of training gives practitioners as much freedom as they can have within the rules and safety guidelines of the sport. Although it can be intimidating at first, it is exactly what makes it so vital for the student’s development.
If you are not familiar with this type of training-yet, please do not be mistaken it has anything to do with training for Jiu-Jitsu competitions.
Live training sessions consist of two or more students starting from a neutral position, typically on their knees or standing facing each other. Once the round begins, their goal is to subdue each other using techniques learned during regular classes.
Live Training as An Essential Tool For Your Jiu-JItsu
Live Training is not a tool to train athletes; it is an essential part of the Jiu-Jitsu training experience and ultimately why Jiu-Jitsu stands as the most effective forms of self-defense.
Allow me to elaborate…
Every little thing we do during regular classes is done with the sole purpose of preparing the student to prepare them for a Live Training Session.
The GB1/GB2 curriculum and class plans designed by Master Carlos Gracie Jr. establish a, “bullet proof” training structure.
This allows Instructors to slowly and progressively introduce layers of knowledge by practicing without resistance under very narrowed situations.
We have found this type of training to be essential and very effective during the first stages of skill development.
The lack of resistance and limited options offers a much more stable and consistent environment in which the only variable is the way the student moves his own body.
However, being able to apply techniques under stable and predictable circumstances is only going to increase the student’s success in preparing for real life- self-defense. Fighting in real life is unpredictable, unstable, and very random.
Live Training is a lot of Fun
Another reason you should consider making Live Training a large part of your training schedule is students find it to be very enjoyable.
The collaboration of these sessions creates a social and entertaining environment for all team members interact, learn while having a lot of fun!
Making time for sparring is optional, however, I highly recommend you make it a top priority. I firmly believe once you overcome initial concerns and learn how to deal with fatigue, you will get the most from your training and really experience all Jiu-Jitsu has to offer.
Live training sessions happen multiple times a day at Gracie Barra North Phoenix. Check the schedule; get the Gi on the bag and just show up.
Oh and don’t forget, try not to eat anything too heavy- like a burrito at least three hours before. ?
See you on the mats!
– Flávio Almeida | Head Instructor Gracie Barra North Phoenix