Foundry Jiu Jitsu Goals: Series 1

December 3, 2010

"Don't Shoot Your Canon from a Canoe!"

When we begin Jiu Jitsu training it is all new from the ground up.  We “snakey”  and “scoot” our way down the mat.  We stand and move stiffly as the instructor coaches us to “loosen up.”  Over time we begin to do many of these movements naturally, or at least have a solid understanding of how each movement is applied.  It is at this time that many students start to feel “flat” and we feel the need to “tighten up” our game.  Each student should take an active roll in their own development as they transition to becoming an advanced student and further more a practitioner of Jiu Jitsu.  Often advice is given with regards to short and long term goals.  The problem is that this really gives no real method of goal setting for those who have been practicing Jiu Jitsu for quite some time.  Let’s break down some basic elements of top notch goal setting technique.

1.)    Practice, Practice, Practice What You Know… chances are you don’t KNOW it.

2.)    Know your Primary / Secondary / Tertiary goals.  Take what you have learned and are learning and begin to fit it into these categories…

 PRIMARY: Our Jiu Jitsu  Techniques / Mindsets / Drills and training methods that cover a wide range of territory and cross many concepts.  Usually a fundamental movement or detail that is used in most of jiu jitsu.

SECONDARY: Your Jiu Jitsu Signature Techniques that are built upon a primary foundation.  If primary is what makes us all similar, then secondary is what makes us all unique.  Many times these movements and techniques are details that help us “pull the trigger.”  This includes set ups, details, style and game that fits well with our body type and mindset. 

TERTIARY: Defining Jiu Jitsu Transition through linking thought, no mind, movement and our first two goals.  Understanding what jiu jitsu is to you.  Is it a limitless collection of techniques strung together in numerous cross-sections of possible outcomes? Or is it a coherent layering of fundamental movements with a few very specific paths? 

This is best played out in physical jiu jitsu on the mat as an experienced student not only links techniques and transitions together, but is actively “getting better” based on the ability to know what paths will link best for his or her body and mind (much of which is honed through trial and error). Another level of this is in how Jiu Jitsu relates to your life and your ability to apply “The Gentle Art” in all that you do. 

When you apply these three goals to what you have learned you should find many new avenues for growth and worth while goals.  If Primary was a snakey escape from mount Then Secondary would be the set up and application, while Tertiary would be the timing and understanding that allowed it to happen.

Stay Tuned for more Jiu Jitsu Goals in Series 2!

-Lamarche