Guest post by Evolve MMA, Asia’s premier championship brand for martial arts. It has the most number of World Champions on the planet. Named as the #1 ranked martial arts organization in Asia by CNN, Yahoo! Sports, FOX Sports, Evolve MMA is the top rated BJJ gym in Singapore.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a martial art designed to allow a smaller person to defeat a larger opponent using leverage, technique, and strategy. However, if you are the larger practitioner, it’s essential to understand how to deal with smaller, faster opponents who can be surprisingly challenging to control. Here are some tips on how to effectively deal with smaller opponents in BJJ:

1. Focus on Control and Pressure

One of the advantages of being larger is the ability to apply more pressure. Use your weight and strength to your advantage by focusing on controlling your opponent and applying consistent pressure. This can wear down a smaller opponent and limit their movement. Positions like side control, mount, and back control are excellent for applying pressure and controlling your opponent’s movement.

2. Avoid Overcommitting and Be Patient

Smaller opponents are often faster and more agile. They may look for opportunities to counter or escape when you overcommit to a position or submission attempt. Stay patient and avoid rushing your techniques. Instead, focus on maintaining control and gradually advancing your position. This approach will prevent you from falling into traps set by your smaller opponent.

3. Use Your Reach to Maintain Distance

Having a longer reach can be a significant advantage in BJJ. Use your arms and legs to maintain distance and keep your opponent from getting too close. This can help you control the pace of the match and prevent your smaller opponent from setting up their attacks. Utilize techniques like framing, stiff-arming, and guard retention to keep your opponent at bay.

4. Be Aware of Their Speed and Agility

Smaller opponents are often quicker and more agile, which can make them difficult to control. Be mindful of their speed and be ready to react to their movements. Focus on staying balanced and avoid giving them openings to sweep or reverse you. Maintaining a strong base and good posture is crucial when dealing with a faster opponent.

5. Utilize Pinning Techniques

Pinning techniques are highly effective against smaller opponents, as they rely on control and leverage rather than brute strength. Techniques such as the “gift wrap” from side control or the “crucifix” position can be used to neutralize a smaller opponent’s movement and limit their ability to escape or counterattack.

6. Be Strategic with Submissions

While it may be tempting to use strength to force submissions, this approach can be counterproductive against a skilled, smaller opponent. Instead, focus on setting up your submissions strategically. Use control and pressure to wear down your opponent and create openings for submissions, rather than forcing them. This approach will increase your chances of success and reduce the risk of your opponent escaping.

7. Train with a Variety of Partners

One of the best ways to improve your ability to deal with smaller opponents is to train with a variety of partners of different sizes and skill levels. This will help you develop a well-rounded game and learn how to adapt your techniques to different body types and styles. Pay attention to what works well against smaller partners and incorporate those strategies into your training.

8. Respect Your Training Partners

It’s essential to respect your training partners, regardless of their size. Avoid using excessive force or relying solely on strength, as this can lead to injury and hinder your own technical development. Instead, focus on improving your technique, control, and strategy. This approach will make you a better training partner and help you develop a more effective BJJ game.

Training with smaller opponents in BJJ can be a valuable learning experience that helps you refine your technique and improve your overall game. By focusing on control, maintaining patience, using your reach, and being aware of their speed and agility, you can effectively deal with smaller, faster opponents on the mats. Remember to train with respect and always aim to improve your skills, regardless of the size of your training partner.