Jiu-Jitsu competition and emotions intertwined 

While being physically in shape and skillful is crucial to success on the competition mats, no doubt, the mental aspect is paramount. Training Jiu-Jitsu will evoke all sorts of different emotions, and namely, fear is one emotion that most will be forced to face, especially in a competitive environment. It should go without saying that competition and emotions are tightly intertwined. Let’s take a closer look then at how competing will allow the practitioner to better manage their emotions and overall being.

Get out there and compete 

When it comes to the competition and fear relationship, fear of competing is essentially fear of losing. In a recent guest feature on Choking Hazard – The Podcast, Jiu-Jitsu professor and Jiu-Jitsu For Life Team co-founder Jorge Britto expressed, “The fear of losing to me, it can only be measured in competition. That’s why I advocate so much for competition.[1]”

How often should we compete

Britto goes on to recommend, “An average Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner should be competing at least twice a year, once at least. Why? Because it’s the only moment that you face yourself. [1]” Multiple time IBJJF (International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation) world champion and Hall of Famer Saulo Ribeiro happens to be one of Britto’s original instructors, and he holds similar ideas surrounding facing yourself through competition.

Developing confidence

As Ribeiro argues, “When competing, you will not even be able to think about overcoming your opponent if you are too worried about yourself. However, if you are comfortable with your preparation, you will have the confidence to perform.[1]” Developing confidence in oneself through the training will be the key to having a strong mind for competition.

To read the full article, head over to RollingTimesMag.com