Are you thinking about entering your first competition? Or struggling with competition anxiety? In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology of competition, why you should compete, how to prepare mentally and physically, and why winning shouldn't be your primary goal.

Drawing from decades of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition experience, this episode covers:

✅ The TRUE reasons to compete (hint: it's not about the gold medal)

✅ How to manage pre-competition anxiety and stress

✅ The "bracket" concept—understanding what's actually in your control

✅ Why caring LESS about winning can help you win MORE

✅ Practical preparation tips for your training camp

✅ The role of a corner coach and what they should (and shouldn't) say

✅ How to learn from both wins AND losses

✅ Mental strategies for stepping onto the mat with confidence

Whether you're into BJJ, grappling, MMA, or any competitive sport, these principles apply universally. Competition is a path of self-discovery that reveals who you truly are under pressure.

Links for Show notes:

“Training for Competition: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Submission Grappling” book
https://a.co/d/dOweTaX

Gene LeBell
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gene_LeBell

Don Jacob
https://purple-dragon.com/founder-don-jacob/

Music “Disambiguation” by Robel Borja https://open.spotify.com/artist/7j0DUZ79z4edeLkU2H1UoJ?si=eISl0YfaQ-yLThljs48j5A

Get in touch!

This episode was directed and presented by Dave Meyer, produced by Robbie Lockie, edited by Phil Marriott and music kindly provided by Robel Borja.