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Hello all,


Welcome to the BJJ Australia newsletter for another month.

Coaching tips from John Will

A.D.A.P.T
======================================
Analyse - Drill - And Pressure Test
======================================

Problem Solvers
--------------------------------------
This is one of my most basic and commonly employed
teaching-development principles. The first part of which - the
'Analysis Phase' - I believe to be extremely important for both the
student and the instructor. The earlier we establish a culture of
analytical thinking on the mat, the sooner the students themselves
become 'problem solvers'.

Step-by-step
--------------------------------------
This is why I always teach by the 'step-by-step' method - as
opposed to the 'show them a couple times and ask them to go for it'
method. I talk the class through each part of each technique, in a
step-by-step fashion, explaining as I go, what each part's function
is. Have them analyse the technique and thereby develop an
understanding of it.

Understanding
--------------------------------------
Once they understand it, we have them drill it to develop the
appropriate muscle memory. I don't like to have students drill
techniques they do not yet fully understand. So it's understanding
first, then drilling.

Testing
--------------------------------------
After this, once they have gotten the idea of the technique and are
comfortable with it's execution against a non-resistant partner,
it's time to put it to the test. I call this the 'pressure-testing'
phase. This is the time when they will come up against the natural
responses that the opponent will offer them. This allows the
student to further develop their understanding of the technique and
even further evolve it to better deal with any unwanted responses.
By pressure-testing the technique, we begin the process of
evolution. This is how all effective combative systems have been
formed - through the process of pressure-testing over time.

Make it work
--------------------------------------
So pick a technique - anything that you have a full and deep
understanding of. Then teach the class that technique, explaining
each and every phase of it whilst using language that paints a
strong and vivid picture. Using analogies as we teach is always a
good idea. Explain the bio-mechanics of the move and explain the
points of leverage as you go. Then have them drill the move until
they feel good about it.

Then ask them to try it in sparring / grappling. It's almost a
waste of a lesson, if when they start to free-grapple, they just go
back to their usual game or preferential techniques. Encourage them
to try the technique they have just spent time learning and
drilling. Encourage them to try. At the end of the session, ask the
question - "who tried the new move?'. Don't ask, 'who made the new
move work?' it's not about whether they make it work or not - it's
about who 'tries' or attempts' it.

Analyse - Drill - And Pressure Test!

- John B Will

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Welcome to the second of the new look newsletters. As always, we
will endeavour to bring you insightful tips and information.
Remember, details on how to un-subscribe can be found at the bottom
of this email.
-------------------------

In the last newsletter I mentioned the new "Masters of Grappling"
DVD by Jeremy Ta'Kody, featuring John Will, David Meyer and Rigan
Machado. Well I got my copy from John last week and it's amazing.
There is seriously too much stuff to take on. The DVD extras are
worth the price alone. Watching some of the Machado Australia crew
(Cam Rowe and Murray Ballenden) on the Hot Shots section, is
fantastic! Buy it now at our online store, cli*ck the link for more
information
http://www.bjj.com.au/shop.htm#mog
-------------------------

This month John has posted a news piece about the seminar circuit
in New Zealand. Check the news page on the site. Also stay tuned
for a major announcement from John! Instant news updates may be
coming direct from Geelong HQ!
http://www.bjj.com.au/news.html
-------------------------

One week till the Nats, everyone should have everything finalised!.
The website boasts all the information you need for getting there
and hitting the mats. Check it all here.
http://www.bjj.com.au/tournaments.html
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Thanks for your time.
Happy surfing,

Geoff
http://www.bjj.com.au/