If you’ve just started training Brazilian Jiu Jitsu then you may not be aware of what is required or expected from you as a white belt. The good news here is that generally, little is expected from you if you’re a white belt as it’s the ultimate beginner rank. Nonetheless, there are a few things worth looking out for and that doesn’t mean that you should be lazy either. Instead, use the lack of pressure to learn as much as possible, and remember to have fun whilst doing it.
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The number one rule for most white belts is survival
This is something that is often said and repeated, but for the most part it’s true. As a white belt, you’ll be on the defensive more than the offensive which means you’ll have to put up with a lot of shoulder pressure, submissions, guard passes and a general kick to the ego. This is all normal, especially if you’re a fresh white belt.
As for your ‘game’, you’re probably won’t have one yet, and most of the moves you throw together will be a bit hit and miss. With this said, from a mental point of view, focusing on survival is important as it sets realistic goals. At the same time, don’t be that guy who taps 1 second before breaking their arm. Of course, it’s good to be tough but only within reason.
Further, make sure that at some point, you try to escape. It may seem fun irritating higher belts if they can’t tap you, but if you lay there like a dead fish then are you really learning? In short, at some point you should also look at escapes from pins and bad positions.
White belts just need to show up
Again, this is yet another common quote that you’ll often hear. The logic behind this is to be consistent with your training and not get disheartened. It will also set you up nicely for life if you develop the habit of training regularly. In fact, one of the most important parts of BJJ is just showing up. Whatever belt color you are, it applies for all and is a good way to learn.
Even if you feel like you’re not advancing, the reality is that you will be. Years deep, you will realize that there are plateaus and moments of creativity. However, without this experience as a white belt you may get discouraged and quit if you don’t see quick results. As a result, this phrase rings true and the point is to improve little by little.
Focus on the fundamentals
So far, the advice given has been more theoretical rather than practical. However, perhaps the most important advice to give is to focus on the fundamentals. If you’re new (or even advanced), it can be tempting to load up Youtube and look at fancy moves that look good. Having said this, there’s a reason they’re called the fundamentals, and that is that they work at any level. This means that if you’re new or experienced, stuff like closed guard and triangles will always be good options.
Focus on these non stop, focus on all areas of your game if you can and you will reap the benefits. Too often, students look for short cuts or magic moves that don’t really work in BJJ, and that lets them down in the long run.
Be a good training partner
This advice is good for everyone. Ideally, if you behave and spar correctly, then you’ll get treated with the respect you deserve. This means not going crazy during sparring and trying to kill people. Similarly, don’t pretend you’re an expert when drilling and correct higher belts technique.
This may result in people trying to smash you and teach you a lesson which means that you won’t be learning as much. If you do behave correctly, then higher belts are more likely to take you under their wings and teach you techniques and good moves.
This will advance your learning massively, create a good environment and also prevent you from being injured due to rolling more safely. Of course, some higher belts will try to smash you anyway which is sad but true. However, when you can – try to be the best training partner possible – it benefits everyone.
Conclusion
Overall, the expectations of being a BJJ white belt are generally low. This comes with its own set of pros and cons, depending on how you look at it. Like all belts though, the more you mature and develop, the more responsibilities you will earn as a result.
Having said this, in many ways being a white belt is the most liberating time in all of BJJ, as so little is expected from you. As long as your expectations aren’t too low, then that’s fine. Remember, the pressure of having a colored belt and certain expectations can wait for now. Ultimately though, it also depends on the gym you train at as well as your teacher who will set the standards of how to perform.
Want to know more about the white belt requirements? Check out this classic book, the white belt bible by Roy Dean.
