1. Win the Grip Fight First

The battle begins before you even engage. Most beginners skip this step, but advanced students know that grips dictate the fight.

To stand out, be proactive. Do not let your opponent establish a dominant hold on your collar or sleeve. Break their grips immediately and establish your own. When an instructor sees a student who systematically controls grips, they see someone who understands the fundamental mechanics of Jiu-Jitsu.

2. Master “Invisible” Pressure

Pressure is the ability to make yourself feel three times heavier than you actually are. It’s not just about squeezing; it’s about weight distribution.

• Stay on your toes: Never let your shoelaces touch the mat when on top.

• Remove space: Glue your chest to your opponent.

• Drive forward: Use gravity as a weapon.

Developing heavy pressure makes you a nightmare to deal with and shows a high level of technical maturity.

3. Prioritize Your Escapes

Submissions are fun, but defense is the foundation of confidence. If you want to impress your instructors, become un-submittable.

Focus on technical escapes using frames and leverage, not brute strength. When you are confident you can escape any bad position, you can take more risks in your attacks. A calm, defensive mindset under pressure is the hallmark of a skilled practitioner at our Rancho Cucamonga academy.

4. Be the Best Training Partner

Standing out is also about character. Your reputation matters. Be the person everyone wants to roll with because you are safe, clean, and respectful.

• Control your intensity: Match your partner’s pace.

• Prioritize safety: Apply submissions slowly.

• Hygiene: Always show up with a clean Gi.

The upper belts invest time in students they trust. Being a great training partner is the fastest way to learn the “secrets” of the art.