Introduction
There are few things that I can think of that is more relatable to life than a Jiu-Jitsu match. A physical confrontation that is pre-determined, such as in a BJJ competition, produces all the same feelings of a fight, and although it is much safer than a street fight, it is hard for the body and mind to tell the difference between the two. How you deal with these feelings before, during, and after your BJJ competition, will determine your progress and development as a BJJ practitioner, and possibly mold your character as well.
Training for competition
The main thing in your control regarding the competition is your preparation. Preparing for competition involves physical training and mental training. Physical training involves developing cardio and stamina, building muscle, eating healthy, getting good amounts of sleep, and training regularly. Mental training may involve visualization, studying your opponents, positive self-talk, meditation, reading, analyzing video, and developing confidence. The physical training and mental training are both important aspects of your preparation for competition.
Surrounding yourself with the right people
During your training camp it is important to rely on your support group. You should have a support group of family and/or friends that understand your passion for BJJ and allow you to take the necessary steps to perform your best on competition day. The training camp involves discipline and a specific regimen which may appear selfish at times. Your focus needs to be in the right place with as little distraction as possible. Your buddies at the bar will have to wait, better yet, replace them with your buddies at the BJJ academy. Your family needs to be your safe haven and allow you to rest, recover, and maintain a positive outlook. Decide who you will spend your time with as it will make a difference in your training and overall progress as a BJJ competitor.
Competition day
A successful training camp will help prepare you for competition day. There is no guarantee of the outcome, however doing everything you can to control your desired outcome will boost your confidence. Having the right people around you will also reassure you that no matter the outcome, your people are there for you. The only thing you can control at this moment are your thoughts. Keep that positive self-talk going, normalize your breathing, and let your body get you ready for what’s about to happen. Then, step on the mats and let your training take over. It’s time to go!
Dealing with the outcome
“You either win or you learn.” The match is over, your bracket is done, how did you do? If you prepared, fought hard, and gave it all you have, you did great! Hopefully you got your hand raised at the end of your match. If not, that’s ok, I know it sucks to lose, but it’s ok. I’ve won and I’ve lost, and I know first-hand that winning feels way better. However, I learned so much from my losses that I wouldn’t trade them because of the valuable lessons they gave me. The wins as well as the losses make me who I am. It is hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel after a tough loss. But, believe me, there is light, and you will get better because of your losses. Winning feels great, but even that feeling is temporary. Soon after your win, you will be focusing on your next competition. This is the reality of a BJJ competitor. We live for the process. Develop a love for the process and the results will take care of themselves.
Conclusion
BJJ is a microcosm of life. BJJ competition is where you get to test your development, fine tune what’s working, and adjust what needs improvement. As in life, we should always be seeking to grow and improve. In BJJ competition, win or lose there is a lesson. It just so happens that the lesson may involve you not getting what you want for the time being. Be patient and take what you can from every competition. Stick with it, be persistent, and your time will come. In preparing for your competition you will form positive habits and mental toughness. You will evolve and hopefully embrace the BJJ lifestyle. Winning a match is only part of it. The real value lies in what you did to get there.