Are you a Spazzy White Belt? Don’t Be!

We’ve all been there. MMA -not just Jiu Jitsu- is intimidating; you’re simulating breaking each other’s limbs and choking and knocking each other unconscious. Being the less experienced person in the room takes guts and trust. As a result, it is common for a newcomer to be too forceful and aggressive in a way they don’t yet know can be dangerous for them and their more experienced training partner.

Shouldn’t an experienced partner be able to easily handle a newbee? Well, they can certainly ‘take you’, but you might break their nose or jam a finger while they put you to sleep. And the goal is to avoid all of this!

In fact, it is such a trope that newcomers (especially white belts) are spazzy, it is not recommended to train with one before a competition, if you are recovering from an injury, or if you just don’t have to.

So, you ask, how do you avoid the fate of being the dreaded spazzy white belt?

First, breathe.

Remember that you are in an environment designed to keep you safe. Your coach is watchfully ensuring that you are appropriately partnered and that if anyone starts to do something dangerous, it is immediately stopped. This is why your coach does not roll during class -unless someone responsible is supervising.

Now that you’re calm, slow down and be smooth.

This gives you time to think about what you are doing rather than relying on impulses. Also, if you aren’t jerking, you aren’t likely to accidentally slam an elbow into your partner’s head or pull too hard before they can tap. This also allows you to maintain awareness and avoid their previously injured shoulder.

And don’t worry. A good, more experienced partner will match your intensity. They expect you to be learning and are taking responsibility for your safety. Return the favor and take responsibility for their safety too.

In summary, breathe, listen to your partner, and slow down. In no time, it’ll be you grumbling about a nervous, overly enthusiastic newcomer.