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How to Take Advantage of a BJJ Seminar

How to Take Advantage of a BJJ Seminar

Seminars can be a terrific way to get better at BJJ. But are they truly a good time and money investment? Once you make the commitment to attend, how can you maximize your learning experience?

In this article we will discuss why you should go to a BJJ seminar and practical tips to get the most from the session.


Learning BJJ online vs BJJ seminars

 

Before we jump into how to attend a BJJ seminar, let’s speak a bit about learning BJJ online compared to a seminar.

It’s true that BJJ online training has never been easier. Like a seminar, it’s a way to supplement training and is becoming increasingly popular. In fact, it’s relatively affordable compared to the typical cost of one training seminar. Plus, you get all the access to a well-known instructor permanently (or for as long as your subscription lasts) instead of just once.

 

So why should you spend money on a live BJJ seminar instead of an online instructional? There are a few reasons. The first is the live feedback you receive from not only your guest instructor but also your training partner. Even when you train from an online instructional with a partner (say in your house), your instructor cannot give you feedback. The learning equation is still incomplete. Also, seminars are often (but not always) focused on one area of your game. In a brief time span you will get top level instruction and feedback that no DVD or stream can emulate. 

When a good opportunity comes up to attend a seminar, take it. You can always watch a video later, but the seminar will happen only once.

Now, let’s dive into the ways to improve your BJJ seminar experience. 

Find a good training partner

A training partner is essential to a fruitful seminar. BJJ is a partner sport and you cannot learn well if your partner is uncooperative. Ideally, work with someone with a similar weight or size. Find someone who is cooperative and willing to supply constructive feedback. This person should also be willing to share equal time with you in offensive vs defensive (uke/tori) positions. Also, a good partner will help you remember techniques for those moments when you are not paying attention.  

Bring your BJJ notebook and take notes

Note taking is super important in the learning process. Use a jiujitsu planner or notebook to log what you learn at the seminar. Unless someone is recording the session, you will not get another chance to review what you learned unless you wrote it down. You will thank yourself a month later when you try to remember what the instructor taught. 

Stay focused

It’s hard to pay attention, especially at large seminars. This is one reason to have an excellent training partner. Staying focused on the material is a key aspect to getting the most out of your BJJ seminar. Socialize after the seminar and get off your phone! Plus, you do not want to tick off the instructor by showing disinterest in the instruction. 

Drill & roll properly

Learning how to drill or roll properly in BJJ is something that you should learn in your normal BJJ class. Quality practice is especially important at a seminar. Quality over quantity.

 

Do not just go through the motions. A black belt instructor has traveled from afar to teach you, the least you can do is to show that you respect his or her time with serious practice. 

Ask questions

Don’t be afraid to speak up. A seminar is a great chance to ask questions to a new instructor to get their insight. Ask questions about the techniques taught during the actual session itself. 

 

Usually at the end of a seminar there is a more general Q & A. This can be a wonderful time to ask broader questions about things you are working on in your regular class or about jiujitsu generally.  

Say thank you

People sacrifice a lot to put a seminar together. This is not only a financial commitment, but a time and effort one. Make sure you say thank you to the guest instructor and get a photo. If you are visiting a new gym, be sure to thank the owner who is hosting the seminar.

 

Likewise, if your gym is sponsoring the seminar, thank all the newcomers to your gym for taking part. These gestures of gratitude make for a pleasant experience for everyone. The environment is more friendly, and the training is better.  Making jiujitsu friends is always fun.
  

Conclusion

There is perhaps no better way to improve your jiu-jitsu outside of your regular training regime than to take a BJJ seminar or workshop. Whether you are a white belt or an advanced belt, a seminar can get you out of your comfort zone and help improve a particular area of your game. With these tips, you will be sure to get better at BJJ!