#372 Should YOU Compete in Jiu Jitsu?

#372 Should YOU Compete in Jiu Jitsu?

From I Suck At Jiu Jitsu Show by Josh McKinney

April 30, 2026 · 1h 6m

About this episode

This episode discusses whether individuals should compete in Jiu-Jitsu, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of competition.

Should You Compete or Waste Money? If you’ve ever sat on the fence about competing in Jiu-Jitsu… this episode is for you. We break down the real reasons people compete (and the lies they tell themselves), whether tournaments are actually worth the money, and how competition can completely change your Jiu-Jitsu, and your mindset. This isn’t just ADCC vs IBJJF. It’s about who competition is for, who it’s NOT for, and how to actually get value out of it. If you’re a competitor (or thinking about becoming one), this episode will help you decide: 👉 Should you compete at all? 👉 Which tournaments actually make sense for you? 👉 And how to stop overthinking it and just go. Why most people compete (and why they’re wrong) The real benefit of competition (it’s not medals) How competition forces faster improvement ADCC vs IBJJF: pros, cons, and who they’re for Why local tournaments might be the smartest move The biggest mistake beginners make with competing How to know if competing is right for YOU Add 1 “performance day” per week (competition-style rounds only) Stop talking about competing, be about competing Treat each tournament like a rep, not a result Compete more locally before…

People in this episode

Host: Josh McKinney

Topics covered

  • competition in Jiu Jitsu
  • tournament value
  • mindset in sports
  • local tournaments
  • beginner mistakes
  • performance training

Keywords

  • Jiu Jitsu competition
  • tournament advice
  • ADCC vs IBJJF
  • local tournaments
  • competition mindset
  • training strategies

Sponsors

ISAJJ Rash Guards

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: ADCC, IBJJF

Products: ISAJJ Rash Guards

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