Any martial artist only beginning their journey is bound to find some surprises and unexpected feelings along the way. As a general rule, there are 5 phases to a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) journey and it is important that you understand and embrace each one as they are a vital part of the overall experience. UFC Gym lists the 5 phases below!
PHASE 1: DISORIENTATION
Essentially, this phase is saying, “I don’t know what’s happening anymore,” and everything may feel overwhelming at first. You are in a new environment with people you don’t know, the uniform and belt system is new and you don’t know how to perform any of the technical looking moves. Once you begin your first class, you may feel like your limbs are not working in unison and you may be easily knocked down or put into a hold.
PHASE 2: BETTER MOVEMENT
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Once the first phase has subsided, you will quickly find yourself able to move better. The techniques may still seem difficult and intimidating but you are on the road to mastering them. You will feel tired but as you improve, so will your energy levels. Many students feel somewhat discouraged around this stage as the learning process seems slow but it is important that you don’t give up.
PHASE 3: FEELING GOOD
In this phase, you’re feeling good and no longer the “newbie” in the class. There is another group of students who are only just beginning and you are a little more experienced. As you grapple and spar with them, your moves will come more easily and you will begin to understand and grasp the core of this martial art.
PHASE 4: A SMALL DECLINE
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Just as you think you are beginning to fully grasp this discipline, you may plateau or even take a small step backwards. You may be “defeated” by someone you thought was less experienced than you and you feel like you’re making no improvements.
PHASE 5: SUCCESS
If you can overcome phase 4, you’re already more than halfway to being a successful practitioner. Now you will feel like the movements are coming more naturally to you and is different in some way. Your body will move with more force and agility, techniques will come more easily to you. You will still feel tired after a hard work out but full of energy and excitement at the same time!
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Always remember, every student will go through these things as well and every belt level will bring new challenges that you did not expect so take it one day at a time. Make sure to push yourself and take control of your own training for the best experience possible.
With a wide variety of classes, professional and highly trained coaches and modern, 5-star facilities, UFC Gym is sure to please any form of martial arts practitioner. Contact us today to receive a free trial!
Lauren Wu (Calipso)
Learn more about UFC Gym Vietnam:
District 2 - Ho Chi Minh 3rd Floor, Thao Dien Pearl, No. 12 Quoc Huong, Thao Dien Ward
UFC Gym Website: https://cali.vn/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cfycvn
Hotline: (08) 7108 9889
