As a newly minted black belt, I’ve been thinking about how much my perspective on jiu-jitsu has changed over the years.

So here’s my question:

What’s something you were absolutely convinced was true about jiu-jitsu as a lower belt that you now realize you had completely wrong?

And for the newer belts, what’s something you’re currently questioning about your own game?

As a business owner and BJJ practitioner, early on, we think “it’s going to be so much easier once I get to a certain point”

Yes, there are certain things that get easier but everything is still a learning process….and a grind. 

I’m wondering guys… 

When a technique isn’t working for you, what do you do first: change the technique, change your timing, change your position, or ask someone for help?

Here is a good question for you guys… For those who have trained 2+ years: what keeps you coming back?

What’s you preference when starting standing?

Guard pull

Judo

Wrestling

I’m a fan of guard pulling because I ultimately want to end up with my partner in my guard. 

Coming off that stellar takedown and Americana don’t exist workshop, with coach Dan Bianchi. My BJJ question of the day is… When you’re setting up a takedown, what do you focus on first—grips, posture, or distance? Tell us why!

Myself, I focus on connection maybe too frequently. That being grips of some kind or connections collar tie wrist etc. However after that amazing workshop and fantastic uke (lol). I would have to say I need work on all three. They all need to be equally distributed. 

What’s something a great Jiu-Jitsu coach has taught you that had nothing to do with a technique?

What’s the best piece of advice a higher belt gave you that you only appreciated years later?

A lot pop into mind, but one that sticks out is "You should look into bottom half guard and look up Lucas Leite Coyote Guard."  That moved me initially to giving into half guard.  

What has changed in Jiu Jitsu game in last few years? 

What’s is a favorite match that you love to watch? it could be a strictly BJJ match or an mma fight that had high level Jiu Jitsu. 

One of my favorites is Amanda Leve beating Gabi Garcia. The lead up to that match was tense and it was a shocker when Amanda won! 

What’s your preferred method of learning jiu jitsu? For some people it seems to be drilling and others flow rolling. Watching matches on YouTube seems to work the best for me. If you watch jiu jitsu, who influenced your game the most?