Adding a Technique to Your Game

A step-by-step visual guide for hobbyists: how to integrate a new move into your BJJ arsenal.

Phase 1: Understanding & Initial Exposure (Weeks 1-2)

Watch Instructionals

Dive deep into expert breakdowns. Focus on grips, body positioning, setups, and finishes.

Example Focus: Note Kimura details like hip angle & grip variations.

Talk With Your Coach

Get personalized tips. Ask about common pitfalls and high-percentage setups they recommend.

Example Focus: "Coach, any tips for finishing the Kimura on stronger opponents?"

Private Lessons (Optional)

Accelerate learning with focused, one-on-one feedback and tailored drills.

Example Focus: Dedicate a session to Kimura entries and troubleshooting.

Phase 2: Drilling & Refinement (Weeks 2-4, Ongoing)

Utilize your 20 min daily dedicated practice time during class for these drills.

Reps - No Resistance

Build muscle memory. Break down the technique into small parts and rep them slowly and perfectly.

Example Focus: Drill Kimura: posture break -> isolate arm -> figure-four -> hip shift -> finish.

Drills - Light Resistance

Partner provides predictable, light resistance to help you feel common counters and solidify control.

Example Focus: Partner slightly stiffens arm or tries to hide hand during Kimura attempt.

Phase 3: Application & Integration (Weeks 3-8, Ongoing)

Live Situational Drilling

Start in the target position. Your goal: hit the new technique. Partner's goal: escape/pass. Reset.

Example Focus: Start in closed guard, hunt for the Kimura. Partner defends realistically.

Flow Rolling

Lower intensity (30-50%). Focus on smooth transitions and finding opportunities for the technique naturally.

Example Focus: Look for Kimura openings as they arise, don't force. Chain with other moves.

Live Rolling (Full Resistance)

Test under pressure. Set small goals (attempts, securing grip, finishing). Don't get discouraged by initial failures.

Example Focus: Aim to attempt Kimura setups 2-3 times per roll from closed guard.

Class Games / Constraints

If available, participate in specific training games (e.g., "subs from guard only") to focus your efforts.

Example Focus: "Guard attacks only" round? Perfect time to work that Kimura!

Your Training Week Visualized

How to weave this into your 4 days + open mat schedule with ~20min dedicated time:

Day 1 & 2 (Technique Focus Days - 20 min slot):

  • No Resistance Drills (Kimura steps)
  • Light Resistance Drills (Partner gives slight counter-pressure)

Day 3 & 4 (Application Focus Days - 20 min slot):

  • Situational Drilling (Start in Closed Guard, aim for Kimura)
  • Review/Refine based on rolling feedback

Open Mat:

  • Dedicated drilling with a partner (Kimura focus)
  • Flow Rolling (Integrate Kimura naturally)
  • Live Rolling (Actively hunt for Kimura setups and finishes)

The Journey: Ongoing Process & Mindset

  • Iterate & Troubleshoot
  • Be Patient
  • Don't Neglect Other Skills
  • Success Isn't Just Taps
  • Reflect After Rolls