5 Jiu Jitsu Grappling Tips

By: Rochelle Connery

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Jiu Jitsu grappling might be just another martial art to some, but to others, it represents hours of training, conditioning, proper eating and mental focus. Grappling is a serious sport that can inflict pain to participants if not carried out properly or if one of the fighters is not well enough prepared. Here's five Jiu Jitsu grappling tips to help you get ready for your next Jiu Jitsu grappling match.

  1. Eat right each day. For some reason, people think they can follow their diet routine for a few days of the week and splurge when they feel like it, simply because they "deserve" it. Well, you'll have to get over that mindset. One of the best Jiu Jitsu grappling tips is to eat right with each meal, every day, and never deviate from your dietary goals. You need to maintain the proper weight for your fighting skills, and being too heavy or too light won't help.
  2. Condition your body. Isometric exercises are among some of the most popular Jiu Jitsu grappling warm-ups. According to MMA Fight Authority, using triangular positions with your arms and legs will prepare you for fights in the ring. Some of the best exercises for isometrics are the inverted row, push-up and leg curls with Swiss balls. These put your limbs in the proper position for fights.
  3. Do some boxing. Boxing exercises are just as important for Jiu Jitsu grappling as they are for every other mixed martial art. Practice striking from the bottom position and work on not getting forced into a kill position. Use punching and trapping techniques to strike.
  4. Avoid certain postures. Never put your hand on the ground when you're in the top position, and do not cross your elbow over top of your opponent's neck. These moves will ensure you get beat out before you can blink.
  5. Focus, focus, focus. Visualizing your moves before you make them can help your mind prepare your muscles for perfect execution. Practice your tactics in your head before hitting the mat.
Posted on: Aug. 02, 2010