Finding time for something like Brazilian jiu-jitsu isn’t always easy. Between work, school, family obligations, and a social life, it can be difficult to fit in enough classes to start seeing improvement to your game. So what does that mean? We need to make the most out of the classes that we do attend. Here are three ways to up your BJJ game by doing just that.

Train Both Sides

Most of us favor one side to the other, and our preference is to practice techniques on that side. It’s a normal impulse, but it’s not really doing you any favors. Just think about what’s going to happen the first time an opponent catches you on the weak side. There’s an easy remedy here – instead of perfecting your strong side, shore up the weaker side. Practice techniques on that side first – it’s how you’ll develop a more well-rounded game.

Start from your weakest position

This is another way to shore up the weakest parts of your game. Instead of starting a roll from your favorite and strongest position, start from a position that has you at an immediate disadvantage. The more you practice from positions like these, the more you’ll improve – and it’ll happen faster than you think.

focus on the job at hand

BJJ is a good place to get out of your own head for a bit, but don’t zone out to the point that you’re just going through the motions. When your instructors are demonstrating specifics, pay close attention and take note of little details.

And here’s a final tip – choose your sparring partners wisely. Sure, you can guarantee a little ego boost by submitting a weaker opponent, or you could challenge yourself with someone who’s likely to defeat you. Your best option is to train with a variety of partners so that you can work on your offense, defense, and pick up a new technique or two.