Category: Training Tips

Signing up for your first competition is a big step. Whether it’s a local BJJ tournament or an amateur MMA bout, preparation goes beyond just training hard. Here’s how our coaches recommend you get ready.

Start Training Specifically 8 Weeks Out

Competition training is different from regular class. You need to drill your A-game relentlessly — the two or three techniques you hit most reliably. This isn’t the time to experiment with flying armbars. Sharpen what works.

Get Your Cardio Right

Adrenaline will gas you faster than any training session. Add competition-pace rounds to your training — shorter, more intense, with minimal rest. Five-minute rounds at 100% effort are more useful than twenty minutes at 60%.

Sort Your Weight and Nutrition Early

Don’t leave weight management to the last week. If you need to cut, start adjusting your diet four to six weeks out. Crash-cutting weight kills your performance and your recovery. Speak to Coach about a sensible plan.

Mental Preparation Matters

Visualise your game plan. Know your first move from every position. Competition nerves are normal — the trick is having a clear plan so your body can execute even when your brain is racing.

The Night Before

• Pack your bag: gi/shorts, mouthguard, tape, water, snacks
• Check the schedule and venue directions
• Get an early night — you won’t sleep perfectly, but try
• Trust your preparation

Win or lose, competing accelerates your development like nothing else. We’re proud of every Warrior Factory athlete who steps onto the competition mat. Talk to your coach when you’re ready.

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the best decisions you can make — but the learning curve is steep. Here are five common mistakes we see beginners make at Warrior Factory, and how to fix them.

1. Going Too Hard, Too Early

New white belts often try to muscle through every roll. This burns energy fast and puts you at risk of injury. Focus on technique and positioning first — strength is a bonus, not a strategy.

2. Neglecting Defence

Everyone wants to learn submissions, but survival is the foundation. If you can’t escape mount or side control, tapping someone from guard won’t help you in a real roll. Spend time drilling escapes.

3. Skipping the Warm-Up

Those hip escapes and bridges at the start of class aren’t just filler — they’re the movements you’ll use in every single roll. Treat the warm-up as technique practice, not cardio.

4. Not Asking Questions

Your coaches are there to help. If a technique doesn’t click, ask. If you’re getting caught in the same position every round, ask. There’s no such thing as a stupid question on the mats.

5. Comparing Yourself to Others

The only person you should measure yourself against is who you were last month. Everyone progresses at different rates. Stay consistent, trust the process, and the results will come.

Whether you train at our Halifax or Leeds academy, our coaching team is here to guide you through every stage. See you on the mats.