Determine Your Strengths and Specialties in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

There is no doubt that a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fighter must be well-rounded, mastering positions across the sport. Fighters must know how to perform guard, including closed, de la Riva, X-guard, and half guard variations, as well as transitions between positions. However, fighters should also identify their natural strengths and specialties to develop a strategic approach.

While predictable fights would make competitions straightforward, the unpredictability is what makes them engaging. In reality, any position is possible, so techniques must be broad and refined to handle unfamiliar situations. However, mastery of all techniques is unrealistic – the goal is continuous improvement within one’s capabilities.

All fighters have preferences that emerge through experience

Identifying favored positions allows focusing training for maximum proficiency and confidence in competition. Other techniques serve as alternatives when the primary approach is unavailable. For example, guard specialists develop berimbolos but must pass when needed.

Close self-analysis is important

Fighters should identify where they feel most skilled – as a guard player or passer – through studying strengths, weaknesses, effective grips, and responses from training partners. Attention to technical details and strategic considerations improves one’s game beyond just repetitions.

With study of self, a strong, defined approach emerges

Focus then turns to techniques from that favored position, while maintaining well-rounded skills. A precise strategy employing one’s strengths increases chances of success, even if sometimes failing. Guard specialists work takedowns to pull guard first, while passers hone stand-up skills for takedowns and passing from top position.

Identifying personal talents through focused self-study and experience allows developing a competitive strategy tailored for maximum performance and results in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions. Continuous improvement within one’s strengths and abilities ultimately leads to mastery of “the gentle art.”