Focus on the Why, Not the How

Focus on the Why, Not the How

In Jiu-Jitsu, it's natural to chase the "how." You want to know how to do that armbar perfectly, how to execute that sweep flawlessly, or how to pass that guard with precision. And yes, technique matters. Mastering the mechanics is crucial.

But here’s a key detail: "perfect mechanics" are different for everyone. The way you execute a move will, and should, be different from your training partner's. It must be adapted to your unique size, athleticism, and flexibility. Every single armbar is slightly different; there's never one that is exactly the same.

This is why stopping only at "how" is so limiting. If you're just trying to copy a perfect, rigid sequence, you're missing the true power of Jiu-Jitsu. You might become a technician, but you'll struggle to become a great problem-solver.

At our academy, we constantly push our students—both kids and adults—to look beyond mere execution and to grasp the "why."

The Limits of "How"

When you only focus on "how to do a move," you learn a linear, step-by-step process. This is the essence of rote drilling. It works great in a compliant, predictable environment where you're trying to replicate one "perfect" version.

The problem is, Jiu-Jitsu is anything but predictable. Your opponent doesn't cooperate. They move, resist, and create new variables every second. If you've only memorized the "how" for a perfect scenario, what happens when that scenario doesn't appear? You freeze. Your carefully practiced technique falls apart.

You become a robot following instructions, not an artist adapting to the canvas.

The Power of "Why"

Understanding the "why" unlocks the entire game. The "why" explains:

• Why this move works in the first place (its underlying principles).
• Why you execute it at a specific moment (the timing and cues).
• Why your opponent is reacting the way they are (their defense and counter-strategy).

When you grasp the "why," a submission isn't just a sequence of steps; it's an application of leverage, off-balancing, and creating a weak point. A guard pass isn't just a pattern; it's about controlling distance, breaking posture, and removing frames.

From Technique to Concept

This shift in focus transforms your learning:

1. Transferability: Once you understand why an armbar works (e.g., isolating a limb, controlling the elbow), you'll start to see armbar opportunities from completely different positions – not just the one you drilled. The concept applies everywhere.
2. Adaptability: When your opponent defends the "how," you immediately understand why their defense works and how to counter it, because you understand the underlying principles. You don't have to relearn a new sequence; you just adapt the concept to your body.
3. Problem-Solving: Instead of asking, "What move should I do here?" you start asking, "What problem am I trying to solve? Why is this problem occurring? What principles can I apply?" This makes you a proactive player, not a reactive one.

We encourage mistakes in our training because they are crucial feedback for understanding the "why." Every failed attempt teaches you a bit more about the principles at play.

So, the next time you're on the mats, challenge yourself. Don't just ask "How do I do this?" Ask: "Why does this work? Why am I doing it now? What concept am I trying to apply?" This is how you stop collecting techniques and start truly understanding Jiu-Jitsu.