Not everyone wants to compete in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Some people say they only practice it for fun, others say they are only interested in self-defense, and a select few will just admit they would rather do something else on the weekends.
But according to The Grappling Academy’s Coach Tom Davey, everyone…that means everyone…should compete in jiu-jitsu at least once.
Why should they compete?
Here are three of the reasons Coach Tom mentions in his video:
It’s a unique experience.
There’s nothing quite like being out there on the mat. The fear, the adrenaline, the intensity…you won’t get it during a regular roll at your gym. It’s something you’ll only find at a competition.
It sets goals.
You don’t slack off when you have a competition coming up. You’re going to be at the gym as often as possible, and you’re going to drilling, rolling hard, and doing whatever you can to make sure you’re at your best when you face your opponent on the mats in front of you entire team.
Competitions give you a goal that you need to work hard for.
You can set an example for your students.
If you’re a coach, competing is a great way to set an example for your students. By standing toe-to-toe with your opponent, you’re showing your class that — win or lose — you are willing to give it your all.
You also show them that there is no shame in losing. After all, what have you been telling them since the their first day of class? That in jiu-jitsu, you either win or your learn, right? Competing is your chance to show your students that you don’t simply preach that rule, you practice it.
Check out all of Coach Tom Davey’s excellent video below, and don’t forget to like and subscribe to his channel.
