The Key to Better Jiu-Jitsu: Taking Care of Your Training Partners

If you train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), you've probably heard the phrase "iron sharpens iron." But have you ever considered that helping your training partners improve will, in turn, make you better?

In Judo, there's a principle called "jita kyoei," which translates to "mutual benefit." While BJJ is an individual sport, this philosophy is just as crucial on the mats. By training with the goal of making both yourself and your partner better, you’ll see more progress in your Jiu-Jitsu journey.

Why Mutual Benefit Matters in BJJ

At first glance, BJJ might seem like a purely self-focused endeavor—after all, you're trying to submit your opponent, not help them win. But in training, the best way to level up is by lifting up those around you. Here’s why:

1. No One Wants to Train with a Bad Partner

If you're the type of person who only cares about yourself, your teammates will take notice. People avoid training with partners who are overly aggressive, unsafe, or unwilling to help. Even if you're skilled, you’ll struggle to find consistent partners, which will ultimately slow your progress.

2. Selfish Training Leads to Selfish Partners

If you only focus on your own improvement, don’t be surprised when others do the same. BJJ is built on collaboration—your partners are the ones helping you refine techniques, adjust positioning, and get better. If you help your partners succeed, they’ll be more willing to do the same for you.

3. High-Level Training Requires Cooperation

Deliberate practice—training with a clear purpose—is one of the fastest ways to improve. But you can’t do it alone. If you’re working on a specific sweep or submission, you need a partner who’s willing to engage and drill with you. The better your partner understands what you're trying to accomplish, the more productive your training becomes.

4. The Best Training Partners Are Made, Not Found

You don’t need to travel to Brazil or join a super gym to find great training partners—you can create them yourself by investing in the people around you. When everyone in your gym gets better, your own training improves as well. A rising tide lifts all boats.

When to Be Selfish

Of course, there are times when you need to prioritize your own goals—especially if you're preparing for a competition. But outside of competition camp, the best way to grow is to foster a supportive training environment.

"Jiu-Jitsu is an individual sport, but it really does take a team to make an athlete."

So next time you step on the mats, remember: your goal isn’t just to improve yourself—it’s to improve the entire room. Do that, and you’ll be on the fastest path to becoming the best grappler you can be.

Final Thoughts

By embracing the philosophy of mutual benefit, you'll create a better training environment, stronger partners, and faster progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. If you want to succeed in BJJ, don’t just train for yourself—train for your team.