It definitely requires a special type of person to become a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt. Only 3% of the people who start training will get there.
“If you are lucky enough to find a way of life you love, you have to find the courage to live it.” – John Irving
The truth is also that 99% of the people who quit, do not have a real reason for it… Busy schedule, got hurt (not permanent injury), have to take a longer drive, financial, …. those are all things that can be worked around.
Rickson Gracie makes a strong case for what he believes is the number one reason that make students quit Jiu-Jitsu.
He explains that people that start training Jiu-Jitsu are often rushed into live sparring (rolling) and are overwhelmed after getiing smashed by younger, more athletic training partners. Also reaching blue belt, some students set expectations that are unable to meet in training, therefore their Jiu-Jitsu school that once was a place for a fun activity becomes a stressful environment.
He also comments on the role of the instructors and offer advice for students who are on the verge of quitting Jiu-Jitsu.
For Rickson, the people who quit Jiu-Jitsu are the ones who need it the most. It’s the guys who spend their time watching TV, eating junk food etc…
