EVERY REP COUNTS! 🥊🥋😎

What's up, guys? Today, I want to dive into the importance of repetitions, or reps, and why every single one of them counts. No matter whether you're striking, lifting weights, or grappling, every rep matters. Let's break down why.

Building Muscle Memory

Why Reps Are Essential
Reps are what build muscle memory in your body. This muscle memory is what allows you to perform techniques flawlessly, especially when you're exhausted or under pressure. Whether it's in a fight where things are moving fast, or you're too tired to think, muscle memory keeps you going.

The techniques you do, the repetitions you do matter. That's what counts.

The Impact of Perfect Reps

I remember George St. Pierre, a legendary fighter, always stressing the importance of perfect reps. He made sure every rep was flawless:

• Foot placement: Perfect
• Hand placement: On point

The details in each move matter. Whether it's drilling technique or just working out in general, the quality of each rep is crucial.

Pull-Ups: A Case Study

Take pull-ups as an example. In our wrestling class, we do 30 pull-ups twice a week. That's:

• 30 pull-ups: Monday and Wednesday nights
• 52 weeks: In a year

Adding it all up, that's over 3,000 pull-ups annually!

In one year, you've already done over 3000 reps.

Now, imagine doing that consistently for three and a half years. That's 10,000 reps. This consistency builds incredible strength and skill.

Why 10,000 Reps Matter

The Magic Number
There's a belief that 10,000 reps is the sweet spot for mastering a move. While the exact number might vary, the concept holds true: the more reps, the better.

I can personally attest to this with moves like:

• Anaconda Choke
• D'Arce Choke
• Guillotine

I have over 10,000 reps drilling these moves, and I'm really good at them.

But here's the kicker: some people might achieve the same level of proficiency with fewer reps. It might seem unfair, but it's a reality we have to accept.

The Reality of Talent and Hard Work

In any gym, you'll encounter athletes who learn faster and adapt quicker due to their natural abilities. Some might need only 3,000 reps to be as good as someone who did 10,000.

You're going to run into these athletes, these special people, that, honestly, they don't have to work as hard as you.

However, this doesn't mean you should give up. Instead, it means you need to focus on doing more reps, and doing them perfectly.

Consistency over Quantity

Quality Over Quantity
It's better to do fewer reps with perfect technique than more reps done poorly. This is true for any move, whether it's a basic round kick or something more complex.

If the technique is bad, it's pointless.

The Role of Hard Work

While some might be naturally gifted, hard work can often bridge the gap. I started my journey in martial arts later than most:

• First Jiu-Jitsu class: At 22 years old
• Three submission wins in the UFC

Despite not being the most athletic, I caught up through sheer hard work and repetitions.

You can do more reps in one year than someone else does in five.

By consistently putting in the effort, you can surpass many who might have started before you.

Closing Thoughts

In conclusion, every rep indeed counts. Whether you're new to martial arts or a seasoned fighter, the effort and technique you put into each rep matter. Remember, more reps with perfect technique will always outshine fewer reps with mediocre effort.

Looking for More Guidance?
If you're new to martial arts and looking for a guide to find a gym near you, check out my book, The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Martial Arts Coach and Instructor. 

Got any more questions or topics you'd like me to cover? Leave a comment below. Thank you guys!

Every rep matters, guys. Every rep matters.