Let’s set the stage.
I taught a class at Crazy 88 some time ago, and in that class, I implemented the thought process I’ve had on isolating movements in instruction. Today, we’re going to retrace the steps and clearly highlight the structure of that class.
Warmup
The warmup was split into two phases. The first phase really fit the description of a warmup since the purpose was just to get the body warm so it had common elements like running, burpees, squats, etc. The focus on specific movements started in the second phase.
We spent a good amount of time working the shrimp and the shrimp in. The whole class was structured around those two movements to a significant degree.
From there, the progression started. The next drill was the triangle flow drill, which incorporates both shrimp movements. In fact, it should be said that the drill emphasizes those two movements.
Technique
The first technique we went over was a triangle entry that is quite close structurally to the triangle drill. It just has some tweaks that make it applicable in live situations. That one technique was used as the base of operations, so to speak, for the rest of the class.
We used that entry over and over again, but at different intervals I would teach them alternative finishes.
In fact, we actually went over quite a bit of finishes since the goal was twofold. On one hand, I wanted them to get a lot of reps on the entry, and on the other hand, I wanted to expose them to all the many ways that you can attack from the triangle position.
The whole class was spent shrimping out and shrimping in, but we were also able to go over a good quantity of material at the same time.
Overview
I got some good compliments for this class, and it really emphasized how important class structure can be. The problem was that I played it all by ear.
It just worked out well.
Preparation matters though, and I think I could do even better. So in the near future, I’m going to map out a similar class and put it to the test.
Oh, even if you don’t teach, you should experiment. It’s what makes Brazilian Jiu-jitsu so fun and limitless. There is always some way that you can improve.