Learning jiu jitsu takes a long time. With rare exceptions, it typically takes 10-12 years of consistent, regular, hard training to attain a black belt – and some people never do. Given how much time you put into your training, choosing the right academy is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make as the results will compound, for better or worse.
Your choice of school will have a profound impact on your progress, skill development, and overall enjoyment of the art. Here, we explore why selecting the right BJJ academy is so important and how settling for a lower standard can lead to mediocre results.
- Quality of Instruction: The most crucial factor in your BJJ journey is the quality of instruction you receive. A high-quality academy will have experienced, knowledgeable instructors who are passionate about teaching and dedicated to helping you succeed. They will provide detailed, technical instruction and create a learning environment that focuses on skill acquisition. In contrast, a school with a lower standard may have less experienced or less engaged instructors, resulting in subpar teaching and slower progress.
- Training Partners: Your training partners play a significant role in your development as a BJJ practitioner. A reputable academy will attract dedicated, skilled and likeable students who are committed to learning and helping each other grow. Having access to a diverse pool of training partners will expose you to various styles, body types, and skill levels, helping you develop legitimate skills. On the other hand, a school with a lower standard limits your opportunities for growth, leading to a less challenging training environment.
- Integrity in Standards: Some academies, driven more by business interests than the quality of their students’ jiu-jitsu, may prioritize belt promotions over true skill development. These schools might award belts to retain students, even if the promotions are not truly earned. When students from such academies are pitted against those from legitimate schools, their skills can be found wanting. A reputable academy will maintain high standards for belt promotions, ensuring that each rank is earned through dedication, skill, and a deep understanding of the art.
- Long-Term Consequences: Choosing a school with a lower standard might seem like a minor decision, but the consequences can compound over time. Consistently training in a suboptimal environment can ingrain bad habits, limit your technical development, and hinder your ability to reach your full potential in BJJ. As the saying goes, “practice makes permanent,” and settling for mediocre instruction will result in mediocre jiu-jitsu.
- Community and Culture: A positive, supportive community is essential for long-term success in BJJ. High-quality academies foster a culture of respect, camaraderie, and mutual support, creating an environment where students can thrive both on and off the mats. At Axis, there are no cliques and no bullying. Schools with lower standards may lack this sense of community, leading to a less enjoyable and less motivating training experience.
In conclusion, choosing the right BJJ academy is a decision that should not be taken lightly. By selecting a school with high-quality instruction, dedicated training partners, a well-structured curriculum, integrity in belt promotions, and a positive community, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success and enjoyment in your BJJ journey. Don’t settle for mediocrity – at Axis BJJ we will help you reach your full potential.
At Axis, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier instruction, a focus on legitimate skill acquisition, and a welcoming community that supports your growth and development. We maintain the highest standards for belt promotions, ensuring that our students’ ranks accurately reflect their skill and dedication. If you’re ready to start your BJJ journey the right way, we invite you to visit our academy and experience the difference for yourself.