Making Mistakes (and Learning From Them)

In your training, it’s essential to remind yourself that the primary goal is not to win every roll or dominate every partner but to improve your skills and leave the session better than when you started. This mindset is the cornerstone of sustainable growth in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. However, as anyone who has ever hit a plateau or struggled with the nagging desire to “feel” like they’re improving will attest, this is often easier said than done.

When progress feels slow or stagnant, it’s natural to default to comfort zones—using tried-and-true techniques or relying on strength and speed to compensate for technical gaps. While this might temporarily boost your confidence, it does little to develop the depth and versatility of your game. This is where the deliberate practice of drilling against active resistance can be transformative.

Drilling against active resistance introduces an invaluable middle ground between static drilling and full-speed sparring. It allows you to focus on new strategies, experiment with unfamiliar techniques, and sharpen specific skills in a controlled yet dynamic environment. By giving your training partners clear parameters—moderate resistance without full competitiveness—you create a space where you can test your abilities in realistic scenarios without the overwhelming chaos of a live roll.

The key to maximizing this kind of training lies in avoiding the temptation to “win” during sparring or resisted drills. While it’s satisfying to secure a submission or dominate a partner, this approach often leads you to default to your most comfortable tactics. These patterns, while effective in the short term, can stifle your long-term growth as a martial artist. True improvement requires stepping outside your comfort zone, taking calculated risks, and embracing the inevitable mistakes that come with trying something new.

For instance, if you’re working on guard passing and tend to rely on a tried-and-true knee slice, consider challenging yourself to explore different approaches like leg drags, over-under passes, or float passing. You may get swept or struggle to execute these techniques initially, but every failed attempt provides valuable feedback. Over time, these moments of struggle lead to a more well-rounded game and a deeper understanding of the principles behind guard passing.

The same principle applies to positional escapes, submissions, or transitions. Instead of always going for your “go-to” armbar or triangle from guard, try experimenting with setups for omoplatas, sweeps, or newer grips you’ve been learning. Allow yourself to make mistakes and be okay with being countered; these are the experiences that lead to genuine growth.

This experimental mindset also fosters resilience and humility—two qualities that are vital for long-term success in Jiu-Jitsu. By prioritizing skill acquisition over short-term success, you shift your focus from outcomes (winning or losing) to the process itself. This shift not only makes training more enjoyable but also helps you stay motivated during plateaus, as every session becomes an opportunity to discover and refine new aspects of your game.

To incorporate this approach into your training:

1. Set specific goals for each session. Focus on one or two areas of improvement, such as passing against aggressive guard retention or escaping from bad positions.

2. Communicate with your training partners. Explain your objectives so they can provide appropriate resistance without turning the drill into a full-speed sparring match.

3. Reflect and adapt. After each session, take a moment to assess what worked, what didn’t, and what adjustments you can make for next time.

4. Stay patient. Progress takes time, especially when you’re working on areas where you’re less confident.

In the end, the willingness to take risks, make mistakes, and embrace discomfort is what will separate you from those who stagnate in their training. By focusing on skill acquisition and long-term development, you’ll become a more adaptable, well-rounded, and proficient martial artist—one who is prepared not just to win, but to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.