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Awareness in Jiu-Jitsu: Spotlight on Self-Awareness

Updated: Jun 9


UJJ students drilling a sequence of techniques.

Introduction


Awareness is a cornerstone of progress and success in jiu-jitsu—both on and off the mats. At United Jiu Jitsu, our approach to awareness is threefold: positional, situational, and self-awareness. This week, we’re putting the spotlight on self-awareness.



Self-Awareness: The Foundation of Growth


Self-awareness is often overlooked in the pursuit of physical skills, but it’s a crucial element for both beginners and experienced jiu-jitsu practitioners. It’s about understanding your own strengths, weaknesses, and emotional triggers. Research shows that self-awareness and emotional intelligence are key factors in athletic and personal growth.


In jiu-jitsu, this could mean:

  • Recognizing your go-to moves

  • Identifying areas where you tend to get frustrated

  • Understanding how your emotions affect your performance on the mat


Developing self-awareness allows you to make better decisions during training and competition, and ultimately improve your overall game.



Quick Resets & Emotions as a Train


An essential part of self-awareness is the ability to bounce back after a setback and manage your emotions. In jiu-jitsu, that could mean shaking off a bad roll or a tough loss and getting ready for the next round. It’s important to acknowledge your emotions without letting them control you—find balance by recognizing what you’re feeling, but being able to quickly reset and refocus on your goals. Think of your emotions as a train: you want to be the conductor, not just a passenger along for the ride. Developing this mental resilience helps you stay focused and motivated, even when things get tough. Martial arts are well-known for supporting emotional regulation and mindfulness.



Practical Tip


After each roll, take 30 seconds to reflect on what went well and what you’d like to improve next time. This simple habit will help you develop your self-awareness and track your progress over time.



Awareness of Goals


Self-awareness in jiu-jitsu isn’t just about recognizing your habits and emotions—it’s also about understanding your goals. Why are you here? What do you want to achieve? Being clear about your goals helps shape your mindset, guide your training sessions, and keep you motivated. Setting realistic, specific goals and tracking your progress regularly is proven to boost motivation and achievement. Whether you’re aiming to master a new technique, build confidence, or prepare for competition, being aware of your goals will keep you focused and purposeful on your journey.



Conclusion


Developing self-awareness is key to both performance and personal growth in jiu-jitsu. This week, take some time to reflect on your own self-awareness—on and off the mats. If you have a story or moment of self-awareness you’d like to share, drop it in the comments or bring it up in class. Stay tuned for future posts where we’ll dive deeper into positional and situational awareness!



Ready to Take the Next Step?


Ready to take your jiu-jitsu journey to the next level? This week, challenge yourself to reflect on your self-awareness—both on and off the mats. Share your experiences or questions in the comments below, or talk to Professor Riser before or after class. Not a member yet? Book your free trial class at United Jiu Jitsu and discover how self-awareness can boost your progress!



 
 
 

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