The Importance of Training Through the Rough Patches

We've all been there - you're tired, banged up, frustrated with lack of progress on the mats, and the last thing you want to do is lace up and attend BJJ class. The warm comfort of the couch is calling your name instead. However, giving in to that feeling and skipping training is often the biggest mistake you can make in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Here's why it's crucial to power through even when you don't feel like it:

Discipline > Motivation

Motivation is fickle. Some days you'll have it, energized and ready to attack new techniques and rolling rounds. Other days, that internal fire will be dormant no matter what. This is where discipline takes over as the driving force for dedicated BJJ practitioners. Training is no longer about wanting to, but choosing to show up and put in the mat time regardless of feelings. Discipline is doing it even when you don't feel like it. And that's how consistent growth on the mats happens.

It's Temporary

No matter how draining or "over it" you may feel in the moment, that lack of motivation for jiu-jitsu is temporary. It might last for just that day or potentially drag on for weeks or months. But it always passes eventually. Don't make permanent decisions like quitting based on temporary feelings and rough patches. Keep showing up, and your passion will reignite.

Consistency Compounds

There's tremendous power in consistently showing up to BJJ class, day after day, week after week. That's how techniques get honed and competition sharpness is built over time. Each session builds on the previous mat hours. But it only compounds if you're consistently there putting in the reps. Take a week or two off the mats and you've lost some of that hard-earned cumulative progress. Don't break the chain!

Respect the Process

Training in any grappling art like BJJ is a long process filled with ups and downs, highs and lows, mini-successes and setbacks. That's all part of the journey, from white belt to black belt and beyond. The obstacles andslumps make the achievements that much more rewarding. But you'll never earn that next rank or realize those goals if you don't grind through the rough times. Respect the marathon process and keep chipping away daily.

Set the Example

For many BJJ and martial arts students, part of their bigger "why" is the positive example they want to set through perseverance. What does it say if you're unwilling to train through adversity? Teammates and lower belts will follow your lead. Exemplify resilience by showing up for classes even when it's uncomfortable. Let others see you power through the rough patches.

There will always be days when you don't feel like hitting BJJ practice. When that comfy chair is exerting an irresistible gravitational pull. But the way you respond to those demotivated moments will dictate your long-term jiu-jitsu journey. Stay disciplined, stay consistent, respect the marathon process, and you'll get through the rough times on the mats stronger than before.