WHY FIGHTING IS THE 80/20 RULE!
What's up, guys? In today’s post, we're diving deep into a crucial aspect of martial arts and fighting: drilling. Whether you're striking or grappling, drilling is essential for honing your skills. I've touched on this topic before, but there’s always more to discuss. So, let’s get started!
Understanding the 80/20 Rule in Fighting
When you first start training in martial arts, you’ll be bombarded with a multitude of techniques. It’s easy to get overwhelmed, but remember this: in life and in fighting, the 80/20 rule applies. The 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, states that 80% of the results come from 20% of the effort.
Focus on High-Percentage Moves
In fighting, this means that 80% of the moves you learn won’t be used in real fights or even during sparring sessions. Instead, you’ll rely on the 20% you’ve mastered. Concentrate on high-percentage moves—the techniques that are most effective and realistic to execute. Drilling low-percentage moves is a waste of time if you’re not willing to put in the thousands of necessary reps.
Key High-Percentage Moves
1. Basic Guard Passes in Jiu-Jitsu
2. Essential Sweeps
3. Fundamental Wrestling Takedowns
4. Core Defensive Techniques
Stay away from focusing too much on fancy moves like Gramby rolls or Imanari rolls unless you’re ready to dedicate thousands of reps to those techniques.
The Importance of Repetition
If you aren't committed to drilling a few thousand reps of a move, it's pointless to even learn it. This principle is critical, especially in MMA, where the stakes are high, and competition is fierce. Stick to the basics if you’re not prepared to drill consistently.
For instance, an Oma Plata might seem cool, but if you’re not going to put in the reps, it’s a low-percentage move and rarely seen in high-level MMA.
Stick to the basics. In general, the basics always win fights, but especially if you're not willing to drill.
Drilling vs. Live Training
There are exceptions to the rule. Some fighters advance quickly with minimal drilling because they have extensive live training or fight experience. For example, I didn't start training until I was 20, but I already had 20 amateur boxing fights within a year and a half. That extensive ring time allowed me to catch up quickly to those who had been training longer.
Experience Over Mat Time
Ring time often provides a significant edge over mat time. Fighters who have more actual fight experience may handle the adrenaline and nerves of a real fight better than someone who’s only trained in the gym. This difference can often tilt the scales in a match.
Practical Tips for Training
1. If you’re not drilling, spar as much as possible.
2. Take as many lower-level fights—such as amateur fights—to gain experience.
By taking lower-level fights, you reduce the risks and get more accustomed to the competitive environment.
Final Thoughts on Drilling and Training
To sum it up, if you’re serious about martial arts and fighting, you need to focus on high-percentage moves and be honest with yourself about your willingness to drill. If you can't commit to drilling, at least maximize your sparring and fight experience.
Check out more about martial arts training on my YouTube Channel and don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment if there are any techniques or topics you’d like me to cover.
For those new to martial arts or looking to get started, I highly recommend picking up my book, The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your Martial Arts Instructor. It’s packed with tips to help you on your journey.
**Key Takeaways:**- Embrace the 80/20 rule in your training.- Focus on high-percentage, fundamental moves.- Be honest about your willingness to drill.- Gain experience through sparring and lower-level fights if you can’t commit to drilling.