The BJJ Guard

Why escaping the guard is easier for me mentally is that I am physically

getting better at escaping the guard. And it makes sense. Goes back to my first

bike ride—I learned fast how to pedal and balance, but had not really discussed

braking. The excitement of that first ride ended in a small crash. Flash forward to

college and the invention of the Roller Blade, same thing. Rolling fast down the

hill, the only way I knew how to stop was tuck and roll on the grass. Then I

learned about brakes. It seems I am repeating history, focusing on how to get out

of the guard. I am getting progressively better at that, but forgetting to be

aggressive and get my partner under control. I am focused on safety first, which

is practical application in everyday life, how to escape from an attack or

dangerous situation. That is part of being a white belt. It is my journey, my mental

process, and in time I will progress. But first, I will escape.