Kaizen is a Japanese word which means “change for better”. The best translation for it in English language would be improvement”.
Kaizen is any kind of improvement, one-time or continuous, large or small.
John Danaher, the famed BJJ and MMA instructor based out of NYC has changed the way Grappling is being trained and developed with his specific systematic approach.
His students include the champions Gordon Ryan, Garry Tonon, Georges St Pierre, Jake Shields, Nick Rodriguez, Craig Jones etc…
So how can you use Kaizen principles to help you improve in BJJ?
You have to constantly problem solve and look for solutions for your problems.
One example is let’s say you always get your guard passed in a certain situation. You need to address this problem asap. You look for solutions, and maybe ask your instructor to fix your problem. A solution is found and even better you find a counter to that guard pass which puts in a advantageous position.
You have now improved!
Use these tips to help you implement this principle into your training, and watch your jiu-jitsu grow!
How to use ‘Kaizen’ in your own training?
MMA coach Mark Lajhner explains some great Kaizen principles and how to apply them to your training:
