I’m a little late on reporting on my very first BJJ competition as a white belt, at age 42 nonetheless! Though this was my first competition in this sport, this was not my first time on a “big stage” competing. With my history of countless dance auditions, fitness competitions, and road races (middle of the pack runner here), I know what pressure feels like so I felt somewhat mentally prepared.
I restarted BJJ in April 2021 and competed in July 2021. That may seem very quick but there are people who’ve competed with less experience! I gave myself a 7 week “camp” and stayed healthy and injury free during this time! I’ll be sharing what I did below and what I would do differently.
Mental Prep:
- Meditation daily (5-15 minutes)
- BJJ Journal: If you’re not already keeping a training journal, get on it!
- Visualization: I’d never been to the venue but I looked up photos from previous competitions so I had an idea of what the mats and set ups looked like!
- Affirmations: I wrote these on my journal pages, weight training sheets, posted some around my nightstand.
Physical Prep:
- BJJ: 4 days a week (up from 3 days a week/no weekends)
- Yoga: At least 5 minutes almost daily.
- Run + Strength Training: 2 days a week (I’d do both back to back)
- I didn’t have to cut weight (they actually moved me UP a weight class) so I felt great.
HOW IT WENT: I went 1-2. I lost my first match up. As I stated, I was moved up a weight class (and she was 5 years younger) and it didn’t go my way. I actually enjoyed the match, we both went for a take down and she got the better of me. She was fierce and strong and we made friends after! I’m so glad it was a positive first match up for us both. I also competed in the Absolute (any weight, any age). I won my first match on points and lost the final due to submission and took home SILVER! Both young ladies were in their 20s so fighting 20 year olds (or gals in their 30s) as a 42 year old was eye opening. I need to work on reflexes, speed, and agility to keep up with them!
WHAT I WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY AND WHY:
- GAME PLAN: Not everyone will agree with this but I believe white and blue belts should have one. My thought process is that beginner belts haven’t trained long enough to navigate any situation that can arise in BJJ under immense pressure. We don’t have the experience of telegraphing or reading the opponent. Once we realize what’s happening, it’s too late lol! Also having an “A-game” take down, sweep, and submission in your pocket could boost confidence!
- ADD BARRE 1-2x/WEEK: For variation in low impact cross training and getting in core & isometric work! I believe isometric work isn’t trained enough but there’s a lot of tiring isometric action during competition!
- ATTEND OPEN MATS: I would like to attend another academy a few times for open mat or drop in for a class. Rolling with different bodies could mentally and physically prepare for competition. There is probably a little pressure to represent your school and yourself in the best light at another school, that can translate well towards the competition prep!
I will have a game plan for the next competition! I don’t know if it would help me win all matches, but it will help me mentally in preparation and on game day, which is half the battle.
