BJJ Seminars and Why It’s Important To Go

A few weeks ago, a notable black belt in the community suggested that I write a blog about the importance of attending seminars that are hosted by your academy, as he had lackluster turnouts at a few of the seminars he provided at his place. When I asked him what the percentage of his students attending, he stated that at a low, half will attend. He also noticed that the people he brings in also plays a role in whether or not his students attend the seminar. However, the way he sees it is that he is looking to further the education of his students based on their needs and that it’s not always the “who’s who” or good top champion – its’ the quality. 

Perhaps because I originally came from a place where seminars are hard to come by, it would be automatic for me to attend seminars that readily become available at my academy (or any academy in a 20 mile radius, actually). First, it’s always nice to change it up and learn from someone else who has a similar or even different game or style. Isn’t that why we often turn to YouTube for techniques?  But the difference is - it’s live, you can drill it while the person is there to correct you, and most importantly, you can ask all of the clarifying questions you need. You can’t do that with your computer.

Second, if your instructor readily brings in others for seminars, they are investing in your education. They aren’t trying to be the “be all, end all” of instruction for you. They want you to grow by learning from others that they respect as well and rather than having you seek out knowledge, they are bringing it to you.

Third, c’mon, it’s your home academy. You need to represent. I mean, how shame is it if more people from other schools attend the seminar more than the students at that own academy? The answer: very embarrassing. Your instructor is also probably forking over not just time, but money and resources to bring someone else in for your benefit.

Sometimes it’s not always about the big name, multiple-time world champions that provide the best seminars. And also, even if the person’s style is not applicable to yours, you are learning what other people are doing so that you can use that to help counter different styles. 

The bottom line is this: if your instructor invests in your education, it’s good to show that appreciation by showing up. You will be sure to take away at least one important tip or technique, which that in itself should make it worthwhile.