Ok, so… If you’re a big, strong guy, how many times were you told to “not use your strength”? Probably a lot. But here’s the thing: “don’t use your strength” is among the worst advice you could give to someone in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Nick “Chewy” Albin explains why that’s the case.
“DON’T USE YOUR STRENGTH” = BAD ADVICE
Not one other physical attribute is “demonized” in BJJ as much as being strong is. You can be flexible and people won’t tell you to stop using your flexibility so much. You can be explosive and fast, and people will admire you for those abilities. So, why should strength – of all things – be the one that’s scrutinized and “forbidden” to use?
Chewy emphasizes that yes, it’s true that you shouldn’t use your strength all the time in BJJ. Technique is more important than how strong you are, after all. But this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use it at all. Rather, your coach needs to teach you when it’s the right time to use more brawn and when it’s right to back off a bit.
For instance, in one position (or transition, be it a defensive or an attacking one) you might need to use more technique then strength… But then, once you’ve been successful in executing it, it might be the time to utilize more of your muscles and weight.
This way, you’ll learn how to time yourself against lighter training partners, but also how to use your bodyweight and strength against those training partners who are as strong as you are.
Chewy explains more on the video below:
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