So were about half way through our trip now, and I thought Id share some of what we’ve seen, some of the differences in how people train here, and some random ramblings of stuff I’ve been learning;
Training has been amazing, we’ve been training twice and sometimes 3 times a day since we got here almost 2 weeks ago. The classes are very different here, almost much more informal. Back home a class starts at say 5:30, that means the class starts at 5:30, and the majority of the class will be there, ready to roll by then. In Brazil if a class starts at 5:30, that’s more like a suggestion (haha) People come in around 5:30, but the class wont fill up with everyone till around 6. People will come in, and during that first half hour, stretch a little, maybe do some light running, followed by 1, maybe 2 techniques, after which its sparring time. Classes also don’t really seem to have a specific time they end, they just kinda slowly sputter out, like a car running out of gas.
The rolls here are very different as well, for example every time you train for the most part it’s a 6 or 7 minute round, as people are getting ready to compete, they do not go over easy meaning you are really working and fighting for every sweep (like rolling with Shawn, lol.) The guys who compete also roll very hard, and are always looking for a finish. They are usually 1 on, 1 off. The serious guys or the smaller guys (That they expect to have more cardio–lucky me) will sometimes double up, but usually its 1 round of, 1 off. The cool part about that is during your time sitting on the edge you really get to watch and observe world-class black belts going at it on a daily basis’–which is great for observing the subtle stuff there doing that makes them so good.
One of the major differences I have seen in my time here is the consistency in which people here train. Sure there are lots of Blues, Purples, Browns and Blacks…But they are no different then the ones we have back home, some are really talented competitors, others are mind-blowing technical, and others are more hobbiest. What separates them from us, is they stick with it. These guys who are the good Blues, have been training solidly for 3-4 years, good purples 4-7 years, good browns 6-9, and all the blacks are 10 years+ for the most part. They don’t come for a little while then quit, they come, stay, and slowly improve to the point were there all awesome. I truly understand now what Don has been preaching to me for the last 2 years “Everyone here will be a black belt, it’s just a matter of time.” My time spent here has allowed me to see this occurence. Listening to the older black belts (after receiving a generous helping of ass-whoopeing) telling us how terrible they were when they started. It’s an awesome learning experience.
One of the other major things that I expected to happen, and that I’m super stoked is the little details I’m picking up. I didn’t come here expecting to learn some secret technique that would be the answer to all my grappling problems, as people often look for back home. But all the little grips, hand fighting, skirt/Collar controls, and simple defensive movements I’m picking up are making a world difference. I can feel my game getting sharper day by day.
Our experience training has been nothing short of wonderful, it seems like every time you meet someone and roll with them, you’re getting re-acquinted with an old friend. They laugh, and are so appreciative of a good roll. You wanna talk about leaving your ego at the door? These guys leave it at home, before they even get near the club. It doesn’t matter what your rank is, they treat you the same, if you get a tap, they congratulate you, and move on, and when you get caught (and get caught you will) it’s the same. You can truly feel the love of Jiu Jitsu here, and the bond it builds between 2 people, after a great roll.
Sorry for the inane rambling, Its been such a world wind trip so far, and I wanted to get down as much as I could
See you all on the mats very soon,
Jason Gagnon
West Coast BJJ & MMA 