Jiu Jitsu

Starting Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is exciting. You’re learning new moves, meeting cool people, and getting stronger. But let’s be real—being a white belt can feel tough. You might feel lost or make mistakes. That’s okay! Every white belt goes through this. In this article, we’ll talk about the five biggest mistakes white belts make and how to fix them. We’ll also share how quality gear, like Shoyoroll’s ergonomic designs, can make your training better. Ready to improve? Let’s jump in!

Why Mistakes Happen (And Why That’s Okay)

When you start BJJ, everything is new. There are so many techniques to learn. You’re trying to remember moves while rolling with someone who seems to know everything. It’s normal to mess up. Mistakes are how you grow. They show you what to work on.

In BJJ, every mistake is a chance to get better. The key is to focus on learning, not feeling bad. Pair that with good technique and the right gear, and you’ll improve faster.

For example, Shoyoroll makes gis that fit well and move with you. A good gi doesn’t get in your way. It lets you focus on your moves, not fixing your sleeves. So, don’t stress about messing up. Let’s look at the top mistakes and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Rolling Too Hard

Slow Down, You’re Not in a Fight

One of the biggest mistakes white belts make is rolling too hard. You jump into a roll like it’s a world championship match. You use all your strength, push as hard as you can, and try to “win.” But here’s the problem: rolling like this tires you out fast. This thing can also hurt you and your competitor.

Why do white belts do this? It’s simple. You’re excited. You want to prove you’re tough. Maybe you’re nervous and don’t know what else to do. But BJJ isn’t about being the strongest. It’s about technique and strategy.

Here’s how to fix it:

Roll gently: Treat rolls like a game, not a fight. Focus on trying new moves, not smashing your partner. Save your energy: If you’re exhausted after one roll, you can’t practice more. Go slow so you can train longer. Learn from your partner: Rolling calmly lets you notice what they’re doing. You’ll pick up new tricks.

Gear Tip: A lightweight gi can help. Shoyoroll’s ultralight gis are made to feel light and flexible. You won’t feel weighed down, so it’s easier to move smoothly and save energy. Their designs let you focus on technique, not struggling with heavy fabric.

Try this: Next time you roll, take a deep breath and tell yourself, “This is practice, not a battle.” You’ll be amazed at how much more you learn.

Quick Tip: Breathe deeply during rolls to stay relaxed. It helps you think clearly.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Defense

Another common mistake is focusing only on attacks. White belts love chasing submissions. Armbars, triangles, and chokes feel exciting. But here’s the truth: if you don’t know how to defend yourself, you’ll get caught every time.

Why does this happen? Submissions are fun. They make you feel like a ninja. Escapes and defense? They seem boring at first. But defense is what keeps you safe.

Here’s how to fix it:

Practice escapes: Learn moves like the trap-and-roll or hip escape. These get you out of bad spots, like when someone’s sitting on your chest. Work on posture: Good posture in guard or on top stops your opponent from attacking. Ask your coach to show you proper posture for your favorite positions. Drill defense daily: Spend a few minutes each class practicing escapes. It builds confidence.

I remember my first few months as a white belt. I kept getting stuck in side control. It felt like I was trapped under a car. Then I learned the basic hip escape. I practiced it every day for a week. Suddenly, I wasn’t stuck anymore. Defense changed everything for me.

Checklist: Top 3 Escapes Every White Belt Needs

1.  Trap-and-roll (escape from mount).

2.  Hip escape (get out of side control).

3.  Bridge and shrimp (create space to recover guard).

Start with these, and you’ll feel safer on the mats.

Mistake #3: Forgetting to Breathe

Breathe to Succeed

This one sounds simple, but it’s huge: white belts often forget to breathe. You’re rolling, someone’s grabbing your arm, and you hold your breath like you’re underwater. This makes you tired fast. It also makes it harder to think clearly.

Why do we forget to breathe? It’s usually nerves. You’re trying so hard to remember moves or avoid getting tapped that you tense up. Holding your breath feels natural when you’re stressed. But in BJJ, breathing is your secret weapon.

Here’s how to fix it:

Breathe slowly: Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth. Do this during drills to make it a habit. Practice under pressure: Ask a partner to put you in a tough spot, like side control. Focus on breathing while you escape. Relax your body: If you’re breathing well, your muscles won’t tense up. You’ll move better.

Fun fact: Even black belts remind themselves to breathe. I once heard a black belt say, “If you’re not breathing, you’re not thinking.” It stuck with me. Next time you’re rolling, count your breaths. It sounds silly, but it works.

Try this: Before class, take 10 slow breaths. It calms your mind and sets you up for success.

Mistake #4: Not Tapping Soon Enough

 Here’s a mistake that can hurt you: not tapping soon enough. You’re caught in an armbar or choke, but you don’t tap. You think, “I can get out!” or “I don’t want to lose.” But waiting too long risks injury. And injuries mean less time on the mats.

Why do white belts do this? It’s about pride. Nobody likes to “give up.” But in BJJ, tapping isn’t losing. It’s learning. It says, “Okay, you got me. I’ll try again tomorrow.”

Here’s how to fix it:

Tap early: As soon as you feel stuck or uncomfortable, tap. Don’t wait for pain. Talk to your partner: If you’re not sure when to tap, ask. Good partners will help you learn. See tapping as progress: Every tap teaches you something. It’s like a checkpoint in a video game.

Gear Tip: Shoyoroll’s ergonomic belts stay tight and secure. When you tap and reset, your belt won’t slip or come loose. It’s a small thing, but it keeps you focused on training, not fixing your gear.

I’ll never forget my first choke. My neck was sore for days. Now, I tap early and train happy. Trust me, your body will thank you.

Quote: “Tapping is saying, ‘I’ll be back stronger.’” Keep that in mind next time you’re caught.

Mistake #5: Skipping Fundamentals

Last but not least, white belts often skip fundamentals. You see a cool flying triangle on YouTube and want to try it. But fancy moves won’t work if you don’t know the basics. Fundamentals are like the foundation of a house. Without them, everything falls apart.

Why do we chase flashy moves? They’re exciting. They look awesome. But in BJJ, simple moves done well are what win. Things like guard passing, posture, and sweeps are your bread and butter.

Here’s how to fix it:

Stick to basics: Focus on moves like the scissor sweep, hip bump, or basic guard pass. They work at every level. Drill fundamentals: Spend 10 minutes each class drilling one simple move. Repetition builds skill. Ask for help: If you’re not sure what’s “basic,” ask your coach. They’ll point you in the right direction.

Challenge: Drill one basic move 10 times this week. Pick something simple, like a hip escape. You’ll feel the difference.

How Gear Helps Your Progress

Good technique is the heart of BJJ, but gear matters too. A quality gi can make training more comfortable and fun. Shoyoroll’s ergonomic designs are a great choice for white belts. They’re built to help you move better and last longer.

Here’s why gear helps:

Better movement: Shoyoroll’s lightweight gis let you roll without feeling heavy. You can focus on technique, not fighting your clothes. Durability: Their gis and belts hold up through tough drills. You won’t worry about rips or fraying. Comfort: A well-fitted gi feels like a second skin. Shoyoroll’s designs keep you cool and confident.

I used to train in a cheap gi. It was baggy and got in the way. When I switched to a Shoyoroll gi, everything changed. My sweeps felt smoother, and I wasn’t adjusting my sleeves every five seconds. Good gear isn’t just about looking cool—it’s about training better.

Feel the difference with quality gear. It’s like upgrading from a clunky bike to a sleek one.

Conclusion: Keep Going, White Belt!

Being a white belt is hard, but it’s also awesome. You’re learning, growing, and getting tougher every day. Mistakes like rolling too hard, ignoring defense, forgetting to breathe, not tapping, and skipping fundamentals are normal. The good news? You can fix them. Roll gently, practice escapes, breathe deeply, tap early, and master the basics. These steps will make you better fast.

Don’t forget about gear. Shoyoroll’s ergonomic gis and belts support your training. They help you move freely and focus on learning.

So, what mistake will you fix today? Hit the mats, try these tips, and keep growing. Your BJJ journey is just beginning!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why do I feel so tired after every BJJ class?

As a white belt, you might be rolling too hard or holding your breath. Both use up energy fast. Try to relax during rolls and breathe slowly—inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth. It helps you last longer. A lightweight gi, like Shoyoroll’s ergonomic designs, can also keep you comfortable so you don’t feel drained.

2. How do I know when to tap?

Tap as soon as you feel stuck or uncomfortable in a submission, like an armbar or choke. Don’t wait for pain—it risks injury. Tapping isn’t losing; it’s learning. Ask your coach or partner if you’re unsure. A secure belt, like Shoyoroll’s, stays in place when you tap and reset.

3. Should I focus on submissions or defense first?

Start with defense. Learning escapes, like the hip escape or trap-and-roll, keeps you safe. It builds confidence. Submissions are fun, but without defense, you’ll get caught often. Practice both, but make defense your priority early on.

4. How can I remember all the techniques I’m learning?

Don’t try to learn everything at once. Focus on one or two basic moves, like a guard pass or sweep. Drill them every class until they feel natural. Write down what you learn after class to help it stick. Repetition is key.

5. Is gear really that important for beginners?

Good gear helps you focus on training, not fixing your gi. A well-fitted gi, like Shoyoroll’s durable designs, moves with you and lasts through tough drills. It’s not about looks—it’s about comfort and supporting your technique as you learn.

6. How long will it take to stop making these mistakes?

It depends, but don’t rush. Every white belt improves at their own pace. Keep showing up, practice the fixes in this article, and you’ll see progress. Some mistakes, like forgetting to breathe, get better in weeks. Others, like mastering fundamentals, take months. Stay patient—you’ve got this!