In case you didn’t know, next week (Oct. 12-17) is fall break at the university. Traditional classes will not be held, but if students can commit to attend (just comment or send me an email) the regular class time, we will hold a special workout session on Monday. Again, this “class” is not mandatory … but every one who’s cool will be doing it.
Sometimes life just beats you down, and that’s a good thing. Don’t get angry, don’t seek revenge, just deal with it in a positive way. Some guys just don’t get good until they get defeated. It takes a lot of mettle to rise from a loss. The physical and emotional breakdown and rebuilding process is tantamount to a great fighter’s spirit.
Now don’t take it the wrong way – you want to take on tough competition, but you don’t want to fight out of your league just to get pummeled. I think that’s Kimbo’s story – he had some internet fame and was hyped up and pushed to compete at a level that he’s just not ready for (Team Xtreme Couture agrees). He probably could make himself a good fighter but needs to crescendo into the sport.
When you get defeated, you need to make an important distinction: did you lose because you were doing the wrong thing (attempted putting square peg in round hole: double wrist control jujitsu vs. ground and pound wrestler) or you just didn’t do the right thing hard or well enough?
If you are in the first category, you have the opportunity to expand your mind and kill your egoist blind-spots. It takes time to gain the conscious awareness of how to modify your fighting style mid-competition. It’s easier to watch a fight on video and comment, “Oh, I should go for an arm bar here,” or “I need to throw more straight punches.” Seek out a good trainer who can help craft drills for you that focus on pattern recognition and adaptive counters. Cut back on your athleticism when training and focus on keeping a calm, open mind. Train your mind to be flexible enough to flow beyond what you normally do and take advantages of opportunities as they arise. Be like water.
If you’re in the second category, it’s time to channel your frustration. Step up your game by being more disciplined in your exercise routine and what you eat. Focus on the “boring” repetitions that make you a good fighter. Drill the same move a hundred times. Avoid over-training and injury, but push yourself. Limit the number of new moves you learn in favor of perfecting the basics.
Bottom line: Be thankful you’ve been shown how to improve your game. Defeat is an excellent tutor.
Tags: Philosophy
One guy I’ve been watching recently is Demian Maia. He’s an A+ grappler and has started to come into MMA. Personally, I like the guy from what I know of him. He’s got some videos out called “The Science of Jujitsu” which are very good, each taking the time to be technical about important minor stuff. Aside from the usual homo-erotic subtleties (remember, it’s not gay if you don’t make eye contact) it’s actually really good stuff. Admittedly, if you’re not into jujitsu, it might not excite you.
Anyway, here’s a highlight video I think you’ll enjoy. It’s always nice to see how pros get the job done.
Watch how Maia and other high class jujitsu players use their hips. Lateral hip movement is key in jujitsu. Also, you need to use your hips to control your opponent, as Maia explains in this vid about back control.
Tags: Demian Maia, jujitsu, taking the back
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