Avoiding to Roll with Heavier BJJ Training Partners Because of Fear of Injury is a Weak Excuse

Jul 10, 2023BJJEEArticles

Rickson Gracie famously said: “If you can’t do Jiu-Jitsu with someone 50 lbs heavier than you then something is wrong with your Jiu-Jitsu.”.

This is a topic that sparks controversy within some BJJ academies. Should smaller practitioners train with significantly larger individuals? Is it worth the risk of being smashed, or is training against larger opponents a waste of time that only increases the chances of a serious injury?

Firstly, why are certain Jiu-Jitsu training sessions more important than others? Why is it acceptable to train with a training partner of similar weight and skill level, but not with someone who is 20 or 30 kgs heavier than you?

The answer is more simple than it seems. Many people believe that training with much larger opponents significantly heightens the risk of getting injured. This serves as the primary justification. However, what is the true reason?

In reality, some individuals use this as an excuse to hide their own inadequacy in facing a much bigger opponent. Even if they possess a higher technical level, they want to avoid training with larger opponents due to potential injuries. In truth, they are simply intimidated by the sheer strength, weight of these persons and do not want to get “smashed”.

It is important to recognize that no one owes anyone anything on the Jiu-Jitsu mat. Winning or losing a roll will not change your life. However, shying away from a roll because of a lack of confidence in one’s Jiu Jitsu skills is a big mistake and a significant obstacle to personal growth.
The notion that training with heavier individuals leads to a higher incidence of injuries has never been substantiated. In fact, it is well-known that training with aggressive and explosive partners with little technique proper technique does indeed increase the likelihood of injuries.

Sometimes, a 130-kilogram individual exhibits greater caution in their movements compared to a lighter 70-kilogram spazz who haphazardly jumps from one position to another, unknowingly causing harm, such as a knee injury.
While it is important to prioritize the preservation of our bodies, refraining from training with heavier partners solely based on their weight is unjustifiable. The essence of Jiu Jitsu, as established by Hélio Gracie, lies in providing opportunities for the weaker individual to overcome their opponent, even if they are significantly larger and heavier. So, why do you avoid rolling with larger opponents?

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