The Mousetrap

Greetings Team,


For the past few weeks we have been talking about some of the ideas and philosophies that Professor shared with us during his training visit. Today, I wanted to finish up with what I feel was the most profound idea I got from that weekend. As in so many things in Jiu Jitsu, it is such a simple concept. Yet, sometimes the most simplest of ideas elude us. We must rely on great Teachers and Coaches to help us see them. With that in mind, Team, I would like to share with you the idea of the "Mousetrap."

What does a mousetrap do? It's sits in the corner. It dangles a tasty piece of cheese. What does the mouse do? It studies the mousetrap. And more importantly...the cheese. It looks so delicious. The mouse can't help himself. And just as the mouse goes for a bite....wack!

I have been training in the Martial Arts for 24 years, Team. Over that time, never have I come across a metaphor as simple and enlightening. The BEST way to catch a guy with a techinique is to trick him. The one he doesn't see coming is the one that he will get caught with. If you invite your opponent to try a move they FEEL is going to work, they will go after full out! If you invite them, and it's a trap...they are sure to get caught.

Never FORCE your moves on the other person. It's easy to see and easy to defend. Luring them in is always a better option. So how do you learn how to do that? LOTS OF MISTAKES! :)  You just have to keep letting guys "try moves" on you, and you have to learn how to "CATCH" them. That means you're going to have to tap a lot. Get punched a lot. Get swept. Kicked. Thrown. You just have to remind yourself that the MATS ARE THE LABORATORY. Each day, each friend you train with, is an experiment. An experiment to ensure that you have AMAZING technique. After all, you want to make sure your moves REALLY work don't you?

No one said that Training in the Martial Arts was easy. But, EVERYONE says it's REWARDING. Keep plugging away, Team. Everyday, every week. And don't forget to bring plenty of delcious cheese! :)



I hope this helps your Training, Team!


ALL THE BEST!
COACH