Wow, great question Russ. I had my first experience at Legacy Burbank. That being said, I would like to train at Gracie HQ. Haughters garage for sure. Chris Burns in Australia, to name a few. 

I took Professor Thomas’s Instructors development class, last year, and at the time, I knew it was great. But it wasn’t until I began teaching that I fully realized how valuable it really was. 

The course gave me the tools to plan lessons, break down techniques clearly, and most importantly connect with students at their level. Through real teaching experience, I’ve seen just how crucial things like rehearsal, structure, and communication really are. 

What stood out most was how the course focused not just on technique, but on how to run a class with purpose- how to set the tone, manage time, and create a learning environment that’s both disciplined and fun. 

I highly recommend this course to anyone serious about teaching Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu the right way. It laid the foundation for everything I do on the mat as a coach. 

Afterward, I sit back and go over the good and the bad. No matter the outcome, there is something to learn. If and when I fail, I hone in on that weakness or failure and use it as a guide. It is the way to become better. Whether asking someone, instructional vids or journaling. I drill and roll till I get a feel for what I need to do to change the outcome.  This will give me an opportunity to right the wrongs and create strengths instead of resting on my weaknesses. 

Wow great question. All great replies. I have to say that Jiu Jitsu has taught me that if you are patient and  stay calm you’ll either figure out the how or why it didn’t work. The biggest takeaway for me is the problem solving while staying calm and being humble is a major factor. 

Echoing many of the same points…Staying connected to the gym is a big one. Instructional and all of the above. Engage with your peeps. Watch and move no matter how hard it may be but within your injury. Stretching is a must. Rubber bands and ISO’s. And the number one thing is don’t let this injury define you. 

I have to agree with Marc. The white to blue belt was tough to wrap my head around. No longer a white belt but still getting smashed. However it’s not that easy for my partners. We develop the nucleus of our self defense but haven’t honed it yet. It’s a challenge to perform on a quick reflex. But the concepts are in our head it’s just the frustration of performing them at will catching our partner and executing the move that was the toughest part. 

Reps are the key to muscle memory. Program through repetition. 

I agree if you’re not comfortable with takedowns due to injury potential for others, it is an opportunity to not feel helpless and pull guard. Safe and simple. 

Agreed to all. I’ve got nothing to add. Wow that’s odd lol.

I agree to all these answers. The body type the move, seeking the knowledge. However I started gravitating toward the systems or chaining moves together that work for me. From each position, guard side control back etc. filling the buckets with reps, research, and rate of success.