Grapplearts: How to Master Any Technique (Honest!)

[Stephan Kesting]

While compiling and editing my new book (Mastering BJJ) I set a
challenge for myself. Inspired by the mini-article World Class
Fitness in 100 Words on the Crossfit website I wanted to encapsulate
my strategy for refining new techniques.

Being brief was a lot harder than I had anticipated. (I suppose
that’s why Mark Twain once wrote “I didn't have time to write a short
letter, so I wrote a long one instead”). Being concise is a virtue
however, and it also makes it easier for people to retain the
information, so I thought the effort was well worth it.

Here are 100 words that give you the keys to unlock any grappling
technique:

"Learn a technique and study all its aspects including
set-ups, grips, body position, timing, balance, counters and
recounters. Get help from your instructor, class-mates, the
internet and instructional media.

Repetition makes you smooth. Smooth makes you fast.

Isolate the technique in sparring. Start with the smallest,
least experienced person in the club. When the technique
works consistently, move on and try it on the second
smallest or second least experienced person. Repeat.

In grappling, observe problems you encounter with the
technique. Then take time to analyze, brainstorm and
discuss with coaches and training"

Take care

Stephan Kesting
www.grapplearts.com

-------------- Related Articles --------------

TRIG – Erik Paulson’s Algorithm for Learning
http://www.grapplearts.com/2004/07/trig.htm

What Using This Approach Actually Looks Like
http://www.grapplearts.com/2008/12/slaughter-on-mats.htm

World-Class Fitness in 100 Words (on the right)
http://www.crossfit.com/cf-info/start-how.html