One of the things that separates Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu from just about every other sport or activity is that it’s top instructors and competitors are all accessible to the general public. Think about it you can’t just sign up for a one-on-one session with Lebron James. In BJJ however, you can schedule a private lesson with just about anyone! We are in a special time where the sport and art are young enough that you can learn one-on-one with just about anyone and even at a pretty reasonable cost.
Cost: Most instructors charge $75 – $100 per hour and upwards (depending on the level / fame of the instructor) Be prepared to either prepay for your lesson or pay as you walk into your lesson. Don’t make it awkward and treat it like a drug deal. (some instructors offer discounts on group privates)
Scheduling: Most instructors teach private lessons during non class times. Be prepared to schedule your lesson in the morning, weekend or other off time.
Preparation: Decide in advance whether you want to focus on gi or no-gi Jiu-Jitsu. (Be sure to clear this with your instructor so there are no communication gaps) Have a few items you would like your instructor to cover in your lesson. If appropriate, respectfully let them know in advance your anticipated areas of focus. This will help them prepare for your lesson.
Day of your lesson: Most private lessons are one hour, although some instructors do longer lessons especially if you’re traveling. Be sure to have clean training gear, a pre-private lesson snack, and plenty of hydration. Be sure to brush your teeth as a private lesson is in close proximity. Go into your lesson with an open mind and try not to control the flow of the content your instructor is providing. Listen more than you talk and allow them the room to teach you.
Tips for absorbing content:
- I always recommend taking physical notes with a pen and paper whenever you can. Keep your notebook and pen at arms reach and jot down notes during the lesson. It’s also helpful to continue your notes when you get in your car before you leave. You want to gather as many important details as possible while they’re still fresh.
- Bring your own “uke” – Ask your instructor in advance if you can bring a fellow student for you to apply moves on. Not as a second person for them to teach, but purely as a practice dummy. Your instructor may appreciate the opportunity to teach from a third person perspective and be able to avoid the abuse on their body. In addition as a bonus, you can also ask them if they’ll video record you doing the moves on your “uke” at the end of the lesson. (Keep your cell phone charged and handy if this is an option)
- Drill! – Schedule a drilling time with a teammate where you can practice the new moves you learned. You can also use this time to teach your training partner everything you learned. The act of teaching it will quickly help you anchor the moves into your mind. If you don’t have a partner handy, mental reps are helpful!
Don’t be shy – Be sure to get a picture with your Professor before you leave…they’ll appreciate your enthusiasm!
Be sure to check out the Origin Immersion Camp coming August 20th – 27th, 2017! I will be there teaching / training all week…hanging out and enjoying the Summer fun! Join us!
For the Ageless Athlete! 