To all my guard-pulling and butt scooting brethren out in the wild that avoid being on their feet like the plague, do you think that you’re letting an important skill set fall to the wayside? Jigoro Kano, the founder of Judo/Jiu Jitsu, once said, ‘Human beings were made to walk, not crawl.’
Personally, I’m inclined to agree with Mr. Kano here. The standup game is a beautiful and complex thing that most of us shrink away from. It’s understandable, being on the feet is very tiring unlike sitting down on the floor the moment we fist-bump. God forbid we burn some calories, right? After all, we might lose the pressure we get from our guts. God forbid we… add something else to our games. Lets also look at a key factor, we must get our opponent to the ground in order to use Jiu Jitsu, right?
In the current landscape of Jiu Jitsu training methodologies, the emphasis placed on guard techniques undoubtedly leads to significant advancements in this particular aspect of the sport for most students. However, a noticeable disparity exists when it comes to the development of their standup game. The conventional teaching approach tends to inadvertently foster a slower growth rate in standup skills, creating a scenario where practitioners may find themselves gravitating towards their guard game as a default strategy.
This gradual decline in focus on standup techniques can have long-term consequences, as students may become increasingly comfortable with their bottom game, eventually leading to a disproportionate ratio of time spent on the ground versus time spent standing. Over the years, this imbalance could manifest in a stark contrast, with practitioners potentially dedicating just a fraction of their training time to standup scenarios in comparison to their extensive groundwork practice.
This trend highlights a critical aspect of Jiu Jitsu training that warrants attention and adjustment. By recognizing the importance of maintaining a balanced approach between ground and standup techniques, practitioners can cultivate a more well-rounded skill set that not only enhances their overall proficiency in the sport but also ensures a comprehensive understanding and application of Jiu Jitsu principles across all facets of combat.
Much like any position, in order to gain proficiency on the feet, schools will need to have more sparring rounds dedicated to being on the feet. Now this might not be inclusive to everybody as some practitioners may have injuries that would make stand up rounds unsafe. Sure everyone has to make modifications to their game to fit their limitations, but then you’re conceding that your game will also be limited.
In the realm of combat sports, the fundamental truth remains: the way you prepare in training directly reflects how you will perform in a fight. While both Sport Jiu Jitsu and MMA share common ground, the introduction of striking techniques in MMA significantly alters the dynamics of a confrontation. The incorporation of punches and kicks introduces a whole new dimension of strategy and risk, demanding fighters to adapt their approach and mindset accordingly.
It is crucial to acknowledge that possessing a refined ground game, particularly in disciplines like Jiu Jitsu, can indeed provide a significant edge when facing opponents who lack expertise in grappling arts. In such scenarios, the disparity in skill levels can create an environment where one fighter holds a pronounced advantage, often leading to a perceived imbalance in the competition.
Therefore, the interplay between training methods, technical proficiency, and strategic awareness becomes paramount in navigating the complexities of combat sports. Understanding the nuances of each discipline and recognizing how they intersect and diverge is essential for fighters aiming to excel in diverse combat scenarios. Ultimately, the ability to adapt, evolve, and leverage one's strengths effectively in the face of varying challenges is what sets apart exceptional fighters in the ever-evolving landscape of martial arts.
Do you think you’re a complete Jiu Jitsu practitioner without takedowns?
Truly Yours, Anonymous White Belt
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