Brazilian jiu-jitsu is one of those things that doesn’t come easy. And while that makes the reward so much sweeter, it’s still an uphill battle. It takes time between belt promotions, so how do you know when you’re getting better? Here are eight signs of improvement in your BJJ game.

You act & react quicker

These skills are born of repetition. The more you train, the faster you’re able to execute those practiced techniques. This is where muscle memory begins developing, and that’s not something that comes to someone in their first few classes.

YOU’re more flexible

Flexibility is an asset in BJJ, for everything from a good guard to protection from injuries. If flexibility isn’t one of your superpowers and you’re suddenly noticing that a hip escape has become a little easier, that’s a sign of progress.

YOU don’t tire as quickly

In the beginning, you probably would have crawled out of class if pride hadn’t prevented it. When a good hard class leaves you tired but not physically spent, you can chalk it up to improved stamina or a growth in your mental strength.

YOUr grip is stronger

We’ve written about grip strength before, and it’s the kind of thing you may not have recognized as weak until you tried to control a strong opponent. Establishing a strong grip is something that comes with time and practice. Or in another word – progress.

YOur escapes are better

You can probably remember a time you struggled unsuccessfully to escape. If you’re harder to trap these days, chalk it up to faster reaction times and a better understanding of technique.

You aren’t submitted as easily

In the beginning, getting submitted is just part of the experience. But one of the big signs of progress in your BJJ game is that a submission isn’t your guaranteed outcome anymore. Sure, it still happens, but not always. Sometimes, you’re the one submitting your opponent.

fellow rollers ask for tips

You know what they say about a sign of true skill, right? It’s when you’re able to teach it to someone else. When fellow rollers start asking for tips on this technique or that one, take it for what it is – a sign that you’re progressing so much that others notice.

YOU’re thinking about competing

This is a sure-fire sign of confidence in your own ability, at least to some degree. Competing can be a great way to grow and challenge yourself, and hey, we’re glad it’s on your mind.

You may not recognize every single one of these signs in your own game, but if one or two sound familiar, there you go – that’s progress. And that’s something you should be proud of.