I came across this article on the Crossfit website today and it resonated with what I’ve been trying to say about learning MMA (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in particular). Although the piece is written with a focus on fitness, it’s applicable to sports as well.

Basically, it’s all about the basics. Beginners will always want to learn the coolest submission, or the newest submission they’ve seen on TUF. But what’s really important to a beginner, and indeed anyone, is getting the basics right. I’m not even talking about “simple” submissions, but basic movements. To sum it up in one word – “Hips”

If you spent 99% of your time concentrating on proper structure, position and movement, you’d frustrate your partners so much because they can’t pin or submit you, and when you’re on top, they’d be so immobilised and squashed that a submission attempt would be a welcome relief!

Give it a read and think about it next time you’re on the mats.