Level Up Faster: What Camps Do That Cross-Training Can’t
How Immersion is Key
I recently went to Bjj Mental Models Spring Camp at Rough Hands Jiu-Jitsu over the weekend and let me tell you..
It was an amazing experience.
Getting immersed in Jiu-Jitsu did wonders for both my perspective and growth as a coach. Being an instructor is naturally a selfless existence, as you’re always doing what’s best for others. Your focus is usually other people, then yourself.
Don’t get me wrong, I love teaching but the four days that I spent as a student were wonderful. I was able to meet and learn from new people with varying approaches to Jiu-Jitsu that I had never been exposed to.
Josh Janis for example reviewed a very unique Front Headlock position for smaller or less athletic practitioners, that I’ll be adding to my game asap. He also reviewed some fantastic details about the Arm In Guillotine that I’ve been missing.
Josh McKinney discussed a passing concept that created a light bulb moment for me.
Missy Baize reviewed possibly the most unique position that I’ve ever seen, the Totem Pole Back Control. I’ve already been trying to work it into my back control and attacks.
Mike Mahaffey taught what most would consider the most basic action in Jiu-Jitsu, base.
Yes, I said base.
He reviewed the use of base from standing and from both top and bottom of closed guard. That ridiculously simple detail has changed how I now use my hips.
“The Black Belts in this room are going to get the most out of this camp..”
He could not be more accurate.
Going in I thought that I would use the camp more as a networking event. Touching base with people who I’ve either listened to on the podcast or interacted with online. It really became so much more than that for me.
Being from Southern California, you tend to have this idea that since this is the hub of Jiu-Jitsu in America, you also think of it as the hub of innovation. While we do have some great teams based in San Diego and LA, Jiu-Jitsu is evolving all over.
There was so much stuff at this event that was brand new to me.
The Benefits of Camps Over Just Cross Training
Accelerated Growth - The level of information you see at a camp over a few days is immense! If utilized correctly with video, notes, and questions, there are few things in Jiu-Jitsu as beneficial as experiencing a camp.
Access to Various Coaches - While not all camps provide multiple coaches, Bjj Mental Model had an assortment of coaches each day, all with unique approaches and experiences. Gi, NoGi, traditional techniques, and conceptual approaches were all covered.
Exposure to Diverse Styles - While I didn’t roll as much as I thought I was going to, learning from and speaking with students/instructors was where the gems where. I was all ears whether it was about technique, how someone approached instruction, or even business. The diversity of thought and approach was massive.
Connection, Camaraderie, and Culture - The culture at Rough Hands was amazing. It was very similar to my home gym with the exception of some of the uniform rules we have. In the end, no one was injured, I didn’t get any weird vibes from anyone, and there was so much laughing. There wasn’t a class on the schedule where we didn’t laugh at some point at some random comment or joke.
Immersive Learning Environment - Not having to split my attention with work and home life was a fantastic bonus. If I was tired, I napped between sessions, then walked back for more. My focus was, for the most part, on Jiu-Jitsu.
Freedom of Experimentation - This does not affect most students, but there are many who have instructors who dictate what they’re students should learn. They gatekeep knowledge, ultimately hurting the growth of their students. These camps allow you to learn away from the gaze of a overfly involved coach, and let you just be.
The following videos are not exactly what we covered, there are some strong overlays if you’re interested. Ultimately the camp seminar videos will be up on Bjj Mental Models at some point for premium subscribers.
Chest Over Chest Passing Concept
Old Bastard Base Seminar
Joshua Janis of Globetrotters Jiu-Jitsu
Hope you enjoyed this post, would love your feedback or questions. If you’ve ever gone to a camp, how was your experience? What camps do you suggest for practitioners and why?
Thank you for reading.
David Figueroa-Martinez
Founder, DFM Coaching
Coach | Writer | Grappler
DFM Coaching is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together!
Thanks for the kind words, David. I’m honored!