Brazilian Jiu Jitsu sparring is one of the most fun things you can learn to do! Jiu Jitsu is a great way to improve your physical fitness while making new friends. Participating in sparring allows you to work on your Jiu Jitsu against a resisting opponent. You get a chance to pressure-test what you’ve been learning in class.
At Absolute MMA, we teach both the self-defense and sport aspects of BJJ. Our classes are effective for hobbyists and active competitors. You’ll have the opportunity to roll consistently. Below are proven tips to help you get the most out of every sparring session.
How to spar effectively and safely in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Focus on taking care of your training partner, taking care of yourself, and having fun in every roll. To accomplish this, we’ll start with making it to class regularly:
Consistent class attendance
Consistency is key in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu because it’s a complex martial art that requires time and practice to master. Each class builds on the last, helping you gradually develop your skills, strength, and conditioning.
Regular attendance allows you to learn new techniques, refine your movements, and understand the nuances of the art. It also helps you stay connected with your training partners and coaches, creating a supportive community that motivates you to keep improving.
Remember, the more you practice, the more confident you’ll become in your abilities, both on and off the mat. Progress in jiu-jitsu is a marathon, not a sprint, and showing up consistently is the best way to see steady improvement.
Don’t rely on class attendance to get you in shape
It’s important to invest in your physical fitness outside of your Jiu Jitsu classes at Absolute MMA. Getting in shape and staying in shape provides several benefits. You’re able to reduce your risk of injuries. You’re also more likely to return what you’re learning in class because you’re not worried about catching your breath.
Need help knowing where to start with your conditioning? Here are a handful of exercises you can do for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu:
- Burpees: This full-body exercise will help you build your stamina and explosiveness. It’ll help you be more dynamic in your movements when you train. At the end of the day, burpees are one of the best things you can do for overall conditioning.
- Pull-ups: You’ll be able to build up your upper body strength. By doing pull-ups, your back and grips will be stronger which you’ll need for controlling and maintaining positions.
- Kettlebell swings: These target your core, hips, and lower back, enhancing your explosiveness and overall power. You’ll also improve your endurance which will help you pull through when matches get tough.
- Sprints: Sprints are one of the best ways to increase your stamina and explosive power. This exercise helps you with everything from takedowns to guard passing.
- Yoga: Doing yoga provides a wealth of benefits. Some benefits include increased blood flow, flexibility, and core strength. You’re also able to recover faster from workouts by implementing yoga into your training routine.
Take care of yourself and your training partner
Safety comes first when it comes to sparring in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. You can’t get better at BJJ alone. Focus on taking care of yourself and your partner. Here’s how to do just that:
- Communicate: If you’re nursing an injury or would like to start from a specific position like half guard, communicate. If your training partner looks a little dazed from their previous roll, ask them if they need a break. You can be a great training partner through effective communication.
- Tap early. Tap often.: One of the best ways to be a great training partner is to tap. Tapping is one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries. Don’t be too prideful to tap out when a joint is locked up or a strangle is in place.
- Take breaks: If you feel yourself getting heated during roll, take a break. Making yourself walk away from a sticky situation will help you keep your calm. You’ll also be proud of the fact that you kept cool despite getting frustrated.
- Have fun: You’re not doing Brazilian Jiu Jitsu properly if you’re not having fun! Do your best and enjoy your time on the mats.
Now that you have a general idea of how to take care of yourself and your training partner, let’s talk about starting your BJJ journey.
It’s time to start your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training!
Are you on the fence about learning BJJ? Let’s answer a few frequently asked questions about Jiu Jitsu. The goal is to put your mind at ease and help you start training soon!
Q: What should I wear to my first BJJ class?
A: For your first class, you can wear comfortable athletic clothing such as a t-shirt and shorts or sweatpants. Avoid clothing with zippers or anything that could cause injury or get caught.
Q: Do I need to be in shape before starting BJJ?
A: No, you don’t need to be in great shape to start BJJ. Training itself will help you get in shape. BJJ is a fantastic way to improve your fitness, strength, and flexibility. Just come with a willingness to learn, and you’ll gradually build your conditioning as you train.
Q: How often should I train as a beginner?
A: As a beginner, aim to train 2-3 times per week. This frequency allows you to absorb new techniques without overwhelming your body. Consistency is more important than intensity, so find a schedule that fits your lifestyle and stick with it.
Q: What should I expect during my first BJJ class?
A: During your first class, expect a warm-up session, followed by instruction on basic techniques. You’ll practice these techniques with a partner under the guidance of the instructor. Beginners are usually paired with more experienced partners who will help them learn at a comfortable pace. Just relax, have fun, and don’t be afraid to ask questions!
Hopefully, we’ve been able to answer many of your questions if you’re new to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu! Take a minute to sign up for your FREE one-week trial here and start training this week! https://absolutemma.com/free-trial/