Tag: bjj

Why Arte Suave Brazilian Jiu Jitsu adopted the hashtag #keepitgrounded.

 

This inconspicuous hashtag is so meaningful in so many ways. The obvious connotation to #keepitgrounded is the physical connection between BJJ which is primarily a ground based martial art form. However, on a more meaningful level the hashtag represents the constant fight that we as humans and BJJ practitioners have with our ego (with the goal of keeping it grounded).

As a white belt the first lesson you learn is that size and strength count for nothing and that in order to grow you need to put your ego aside. Any high level BJJ practitioner can attest to the fact that ego can be the single biggest factor in your progression (or lack thereof). Because at the white belt level it is invariable that you will be the nail and regardless of what you think your ego won’t like it.

As you grow in your game and reach higher belt levels (read more time on the mat) your ego is slowly transformed into confidence. Confidence in your technique, timing, game and general ability to defend yourself and this in turn leads to a level of maturity that by its extension has less ego involvement. In our academy we are of the opinion that despite the fact that you may now be considered the hammer, you don’t always need to be.

White belt retention can only be done through all coaches and students putting aside their ego’s and genuinely wanting to assist the white belts. Once that white belt gains sufficient knowledge and experience and becomes comfortable being uncomfortable you can then start adding more pressure and giving them more game. But it takes maturity and putting aside your ego both as a coach and as a student to do this.

Then comes the ultimate conundrum at some point during your BJJ career (high level purple, brown or black belt) you are the considered to be a serious BJJ practitioner that can handle themselves against just about any lower belt or non BJJ practitioner. Yet, at the same time when you roll your coach or higher belts you are very quickly put back into your place.

 

This duality is the beauty of BJJ.

To simultaneously be the hammer and the nail and to be happy regardless of which you are on any given day.

And this is why we always aim to #keepitgrounded