Brazilian Jiu Jitsu - 4 Ways to Mentally Dominate Your Opponent

In all types of sports it easy to get caught up only focusing on the physical aspects of the sport. However, there are other ways you can direct your attention in order to dramatically improve your performance. In Brazilian jiu jitsu there are a number of strategies you can impose in order to mentally dominate your opponent.

1) Stall From a Safe Position

While it is not always entertaining to those who are watching a Brazilian jiu jitsu event, stalling from a safe position is one of the easiest ways to frustrate an opponent. If you are in a safe position such as your closed guard take a moment to rest and slow down the action. The more you can make your opponent work without gaining any progress, the better chance that at some point they will lose their composure and make a mistake.

2) Stall From a Dominant Position

In Brazilian jiu jitsu stalling from a dominant position can be one of the most mentally dominating things you can do. If you can get yourself into a strong position such as the mount or side position, just keep the position. Your opponent knows he is in bad position and even an experience grappler can lose their confidence if they are held down long enough.

3) Set the Pace Early

Brazilian jiu jitsu can be played at a variety of speeds. One of the best ways to mentally dominate an opponent is to set the pace of the match early. If your opponent wants to play fast and explosive, play slow and controlled. If your opponent wants to slow down the match and play it safe, be sure you set a very fast pace at the beginning of the match. Whatever you decide to do, be sure that the pace you set is within the limits of your physical conditioning.

4) Make Everything Uncomfortable

In the early days of M.M.A. there was a saying that went something along the lines of, make it hurt. Sometimes this can be one of the best ways to mentally break an opponent. Whatever position you find yourself in, make it uncomfortable for your opponent. Use that discomfort to make your opponent move before they want to or have to adjust to avoid your pressure. This constant grinding attack will tax the mental resources of even the most experienced grapplers.
These are just a few strategies that you can use to gain a psychological advantage. Also, keep in mind that these concepts are no substitute for a well developed game and disciplined practice.

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