Written by Uros Culic from Serbia, a BJJ black belt under Ricardo Vieira and FILA Grappling World Champion who has been training, teaching and competing for the last 10 years. Uros is one of the best fighters out of Serbia who is known for his smashing, but technical style.

When you’re a novice at something, it’s perfectly natural to make mistakes. However, how you address these mistakes plays a significant role in how quickly you improve. Instead of focusing solely on specific errors, let’s discuss some common misconceptions that negatively impact the overall Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) game. By understanding these broader issues, more readers can identify and correct their own mistakes, enhancing their progress.

Rolling too aggressively or using excessive strength: Many white belts approach rolling as if it’s a life-or-death struggle, driven by a desire to win. While developing a competitive mentality is important, it should not come at the cost of your primary training goal—learning. Rolling with excessive tension and force limits your ability to think clearly and adapt, ultimately slowing your progress. Striking a balance between a winning mindset and a focus on learning and experimentation is essential.

Creating too much space and jumping between positions: White belts often move from one position to another without maintaining consistent pressure or staying close to their opponent. This mistake can be seen at all levels, but it is especially common among beginners. Developing and maintaining constant pressure and controlling space is a skill that should be honed continuously, even as you reach higher belt levels.

Attempting leg locks before mastering the basics: Diving into complex leg locks without a solid grasp of fundamental techniques limits your growth and may delay overall skill development. While leg locks have their place, they should not come at the expense of learning basic principles. Skipping the foundations can cost you significantly in the long run.

Rolling too defensively: This mistake is common among physically strong white belts who prioritize avoiding submissions over developing their overall game. While strength is a valuable asset, it can become a trap, leading to stagnation. Many practitioners remain at the same belt level for years because, despite being difficult to submit, they fail to advance technically.

Neglecting to use all body parts for control: Many white belts rely primarily on their arms to control opponents, missing the potential of their hips, legs, and even their head. Learning to engage and coordinate all body parts will dramatically improve your ability to control and dominate positions.

Fighting for lost positions: Some white belts hold onto positions too long, even after they’ve been compromised, instead of transitioning or adjusting. This leads to losing control and ending up in inferior positions. BJJ is a dynamic sport that requires constant movement, adaptation, and a willingness to let go and reposition when needed.

Using illegal techniques: Some white belts unknowingly use techniques that are prohibited for their belt level or even banned altogether. This is usually due to a lack of awareness rather than malicious intent. Instructors and training partners should correct these mistakes with patience unless they are repeated intentionally.

If you see yourself making these mistakes, don’t feel discouraged. Instead, use these insights as an opportunity for growth. Be honest with yourself, identify areas to improve, and make adjustments to elevate your BJJ game!