Choke Point Chronicles is where strategy meets storytelling. Each post explores the tactics, psychology, and culture of Jiu-Jitsu, written for students and coaches who want to train with intention and think deeper about the art.
Tapped In is a short-form audio series built for grapplers chasing mastery, not medals. Weekly insights blending mindset, structure, and real-talk in just 15-20 minutes.
Upgrade to premium for just $5/month to unlock deeper essays, bonus audio, and behind-the-scenes coaching content.
👉 Join BJJ Mental Models+ (Code: FIGUEROAMARTINEZ)
The Hidden Victory of Competition Prep
I’ll admit, I haven’t competed in a while but I do still remember the benefits I had from it. I don’t think everyone should be forced to compete, but I do think that everyone should compete at least once.
It doesn’t have to be a bit named tournament, it can be local, and it can even be an In-House tournament.
The preparation that you will do, will organize who you approach training and alter your mindset as a whole.
A Tapped In Episode You Might Like
E60 | Bonus Ep | Weaponized Loyalty
Training With Intention and Purpose
Most students will generally train in a more relaxed way.
While it might be difficult, test our cardio, and your confidence; it’s not at a competition level. Because of that, we’re okay with allowing for bad positions or outcome because the end results don’t matter much.
When you’re preparing for a competition, you start to understand how important every position, transition, and moment really are. A mistake that puts you in the bottom of mount or side control can decide the the entire match.
You stop accepting being swept.
You fight off guard passes to the bitter end.
You don’t stop because you think you’re tired.
Game Plan Development
I’m not sure why, but a good portion of Jiu-Jitsu students don’t actively have game plans. Jiu-Jitsu is often a very casual affair, we play according to what happens then respond, but mastery comes from game planning and strategy.
Your game plan will often be pretty basic early on, but with time it can become incredibly detailed, with interconnected systems for each position.
Identity Shift
Being a competitor forces you to be a bit more selfish with your training, you honestly have to be. As you start to train with intent along with taking ownership over your training, you will feel different about yourself. Your confidence will start to grow with each roll you have.
Final Thoughts
Even for those of you who have no plans to compete, training on occasion with your training partners who are, can provide a massive benefit. Learn everything you can from that approach and try to adapt it to your own.
If you’re interested and would like to take advantage of one of a few scholarship spots that I’m giving out for free, comment and ask to be added.
You’ll have full access to:
General Discussion – Connect with other members, share experiences, and exchange ideas.
Ask Me Anything – Post your questions about training, mindset, or anything BJJ-related and get my direct input.
Technique Breakdowns – Detailed explanations and coaching notes on key positions and movements.
Video Reviews – Upload your training footage for personalized feedback.
Courses – Structured lessons and training plans to guide your progress.
All I ask is that you participate, ask questions, and make the most of the space. The more you engage, the more you will get out of it.
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!