It an be frustrating when during drilling or sparring you just can’t seem to make a technique work. Inevitably you ponder, “Why isn’t this move working for me?” Well fortunately diagnosing the problem with can be solved in a simple four step process. All it takes is a little self examination!
Reason #1: Missing Details
The most common reason for failure of a technique is that you have simply overlooked an important detail. Review the technique. Examine the lesson one or two more times to be certain that you have absorbed every detail.
Reason #2: Training Partner Behavior
Remember that techniques are responsive in nature, calling for a specific action to warrant their execution. For this reason, it is very important that your training partner realistically simulates the correct behavior or else the technique may not work. For example, if a sweep is to be executed when your opponent is driving forward on you and your partner is instead sitting back on his heels you are certain to experience technique failure in this instance.
Reason #3: Bad Timing
Timing is critical. If you are executing all the steps correctly and your training partner is acting accordingly but the technique is still not working, then there is a good chance that your timing is off. Continue repping the technique over and over, timing and effectiveness will develop through work ethic.
Reason #4: Physical Limitations
One you are certain that reasons 1 through 3 are not responsible for technique failure it is time to explore the possibility that you can not perform the technique because of a physical limitation. If a physical limitation is the problem, I recommend you use your understanding of leverage, timing, and strategy to modify the technique to accommodate your limitation or consider using another technique entirely.
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About The Author:
Jeff Reese, Gracie Jiu-jitsu black belt, has had the honor of learning from two generations of Gracie family members including Royce, Royler, Rodrigo, Rolker, Ralek, Rener, and Ryron; he teaches at Gracie NEPA in Scranton, PA.
