Why do size and experience matter in BJJ drills?
Being close in size can make the move easier for both people to practice. Experience matters too. You may drill with someone at a similar level or someone who knows the move well enough to help you with it.
Drilling with someone at a similar level
You may both be figuring out the same move. Repeating it together gives each person time to practice and ask about a step that isn't clear.
Drilling with someone more experienced
A student who's done the move before may help you through a step you're stuck on. They're practicing too. Phantom aims for a room where everyone helps each other get better.
Who might a new BJJ student drill with?
For example, say a new student is close in size to two others. One is learning the move too. The other has done it before and can help talk through a step. Either pairing might make sense, depending on the drill.
What should you tell your BJJ partner before drilling?
If you've been getting stuck at one step, tell your partner: “I keep losing the position here. Can we practice that part?” If a size difference makes the move hard to practice, ask the instructor for help or another way to drill it.
Before you practice together, you can also read how to give and respond to a tap in BJJ.
What adult BJJ classes does Phantom Jiu Jitsu offer?
Phantom's Adult Jiu Jitsu Program explains Fundamentals, All Levels and Advanced. The weekly schedule shows current Gi and No-Gi classes. If you're new or unsure where to start, you can request a trial.
If you already attend Fundamentals, read when to ask about adding an All Levels BJJ class.