GB Midlands: Victor Estima Invisible Jiu-Jitsu: Tips to Improve your Jiu-Jitsu

I always look forward to a Saturday, or anytime I get to train at GB Midlands for that matter. Not only are the facilities unbelievable and the tuition World Class, but (without kissing too much arse) Victor is is one of the most welcoming and friendly people I have met. In fact everyone who I have met there or had the pleasure to train with has been super friendly and helpful. I really think the academy is going to be a centre of excellence with people congregating from all over the Midlands and UK to share the 'gentle art'. I hear that British MMA stars such as Paul "Semtex" Daley and "Judo"Jimmy Wallhead have already paid a visit to the academy to train.

Since I started to train at the academy it has really got me to think more closely about my Jiu-Jitsu. Unfortunately I missed out on a lot of the basic techniques when I first started training so I am trying to relearn the basics and correct bad habits, the analogy I like to give is that of watching a movie. If you start at Part 5 but miss Parts 1-4 it is very hard to understand what is going on. The same can be true when learning Jiu-Jitsu and this is true in my instance.

Victor really epitomises invisible Jiu-Jitsu. What at first glance may may be passed off as a basic technique is in fact a well thought out procedure consisting of essential steps. Understanding 'why' you are performing these steps is of the up most importance. If you know 'why' you can apply this to other more complex techniques. Jiu-Jitsu works on the theory of leverage and balance. You want to get to positions and perform techniques with the least energy possible.

Training here really exposes your weaknesses. I always return from a lesson here with a direction and an area I need to improve. I like to think of it like a leaking beer barrel full of holes, with myself slowly trying to patch the leaks. I have already started to see improvements in my game and hope training here will continue to push my Jiu-Jitsu onto the next level.

Here are my top 5 tips to improve your Jiu-Jitsu (I am not claiming to be an authority on the subject)

1. Master the Basics

2. Understand why you are doing something (ask questions)

3. Expend as little energy as possible

4. Work on your weakest areas and correct bad habits ASAP

5. Enjoy!!!

Oh I nearly forgot one, train with Victor ;-)

I have included some pictures (courtesy of Mark Picton) of the academy, below, click through the picture for a larger image.

Facilities at the academy include a big plasma TV, a seating area showing fight DVDs, a seated spectator area, changing rooms with showers, 2 large matted areas (for now although there is more space for expansion), a shop where you can purchase Masaru gi's, rash guards and fight shorts; and a snack bar selling drinks, protein shakes and other nibbles.

Links:

Website
GB Midlands

GB Midlands on Facebook:
Gracie Barra Midlands Victor Estima Academy
Gracie Barra Midlands

*this post is dedicated to the Paxman brothers for their support and continual lifts to training in Mansfield ;-).