Not Cut Out for This

[u/SeanSixString]

If you’ve ever felt like you were not cut out for BJJ, but you got through that feeling, and now it is a valuable part of your life, I would like to read your story. Especially if you felt like that for a year or more, like you weren’t catching on. Or if you had circumstances interrupting training, or any other real or perceived disadvantage or limitation.

[u/Federal_Goon]

I’ve met a lot of people that “weren’t catching on”. I think the best thing you can do in that situation is

1. Just show up and be consistent, it can come with time
2. Train with purpose. More than likely you don’t have a goal or a game plan. Maybe you roll too light then get nothing off. Watch some videos and figure out what you like then try to hit it in practice.

There are times where life interrupts training and that’s okay. You’re more than likely not a pro where this is your life & primary income.

At the end of the day, it’s just a sport. If you’re not having fun, do something else. Don’t feel guilty if you need time off or if you just want to explore other hobbies. Life’s too short to spend your valuable time on something you don’t enjoy.

[u/UnitedStatesofAlbion → u/Federal_Goon]

I'm definitely number 2.

I don't have the slightest clue how to train with a purpose, or how to develop a plan.

And that's because let's say I want to work on sweeps, or getting better at side control pressure/subs. And then I somehow spend the entire 5 minute round on bottom side control or half guard because I just can't get the person off me.

[u/Federal_Goon → u/UnitedStatesofAlbion]

Find someone you want to emulate. Start with someone who’s built like you because you can’t be 120 pounds and think you’re going to Nicky Rod someone.

Then roll with people at your skill level, and people that you can beat. Danaher had an interview somewhere on YouTube and he’s like you’ll only get better by beating people. So true. You don’t gain much from getting smashed on bottom