Not everyone cares about getting good really fast. In recent years, the training method for jiu-jitsu has split into two camps:
- Step-by-step instruction and drilling
- Constraint-led, task-based games
We’ve all heard the argument for CLA: having to make decisions against live resistance develops skill faster because it’s all done under pressure. In my classes, I use both, sometimes even in the same class, and that’s on purpose. It’s not because I don’t believe in one over the other. I’ve gone back and forth about it, but it doesn’t matter because my decision isn’t based on what’s best for rapid skill development.
In my advanced class, we start with step-by-step instruction, and then it’s live sparring. Some days we go with task-based games first, and then after that sparring. Then there are times when I would do a step-by-step or a task-based game first and then add the other one afterward, and then go back to the first. For example, if I wanted people to get good at the Americana setup from side control, I might show them how to do it, and then I might have them try it against someone who knows what’s coming and trying to stop it. After that, we’ll go back to instruction on how to counter the counter. Sometimes it’s the other way, where it’s a game, then instruction, then a game.
My beginner self-defense class is the same. In the past, it used to be just an indicator and a reaction. For example, the attacker throws a punch, so the defender covers up, closes the distance, and gets the clinch. And then it’s repeated. It’s scripted, it’s repetitive. I think it’s effective but I also think it can get boring, so I added task-based games.
It helps to keep things fresh, to keep people engaged. Because if people are having fun, they’re going to keep training.
I have these two classes, and they have two different problems, but the solution is the same. One needed variety, because if it was just high intensity all the time, they’re going to burn out. On the other hand, we have the class that needed variety because pure repetition gets boring. Having both helps people stay engaged.
Not everyone is looking to maximize skill acquisition first.
It’s longevity on the mat that matters, not being an amazing white belt.