1. Think of your first competition as part of your training, perhaps as an extra-tough class with an open mat. In the overall scheme of things, it is only one grappling match, and you are the only one who cares if you win or lose.
2. Try your best to win, but if that doesn’t happen, keep your chin up and use it as a learning experience. If you get discouraged, then all you did was waste your entrance fee. One day will not affect your entire life or future, and you will do better next time.
3. When I step out on the mat, the first thing I do is look at all the spectators and turn to have a 360 degree view of the environment. This gets my mind focused on my opponent and helps me relax in preparation for the match.
4. Practice your breathing to help control your adrenaline that is doubtless kicking in by now. Adrenaline can make you gas out quickly and think you’re ready to hyperventilate. Take a minute to close your eyes, breathe and visualize. You can slow your heart rate by deep breathing, in through your nose and out your mouth two or three times.
5. Also remember your breathing when you’re on the mat. It is very important to NOT hold your breath, and do not breathe in with your mouth. This is especially true if your blood pressure runs high because you can gas out quickly. Just continue proper deep breathing.
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I don't think that many tournaments require a mouth piece.
Mine encouraged them, but they weren't a requirement. I'm sure the IBJJF does though.
11. Have fun!
the sleep thing works 2 days in advance. so if the tourney is on saturday, the restful night's sleep should be the thursday night beforehand. and go to bed an hour earlier than normal, rather than sleeping in an hour later.
Noone requires you a mouthpiece,even IBJF!
Noone requires you a mouthpiece,even IBJF!
Couple accidental knees to the face made it a requirement for me.
FTW! This one alone took away some of my nerves. Why are we even doing jiu-jitsu? 🙂
Micayla Presley I competed at the IBJJF Las Vegas and Long Beach opens this year, and neither had me use a mouth piece? Maybe it depends on the Ref you get?
I wasn't sure. I've never done IBJJF before. I hate rolling with it though.
videotape your fight for breaking down at home