10 Ways Not to Quit Jiu Jitsu

How to survive the dip and stay on the path—especially when it gets hard.

Every jiu jitsu student eventually hits a wall. Whether you're a few weeks in or a few years deep, that voice that says “maybe this isn’t for me” can creep in. The truth? It is for you—you just might need a few strategies to keep going.

Here are 10 simple ways to make it through the tough parts without quitting.

1. Show up tired.

One of the most underrated tools in your BJJ toolkit is simply showing up—especially on the days you don’t feel like it. You don’t have to be 100%. You just have to be there. Even tired, you’ll learn something.

2. Don’t compare timelines.

Everyone moves through jiu jitsu at their own pace. Promotions, progress, competition results—they all vary wildly. Someone else’s success has nothing to do with your path. Stay in your lane.

3. Take breaks—but not forever.

Life happens. Vacations, injuries, burnout. It’s okay to step away, but don’t leave your return open-ended. Set a comeback date—even if it's just penciled in. You’ll thank yourself later.

4. Ask for help.

Feeling stuck on a technique or overwhelmed by class? Talk to a coach. Ask a higher belt. Jiu jitsu is hard, and no one expects you to figure it all out alone. Your teammates are your resource.

5. Focus on tiny wins.

Not getting submitted by someone who usually steamrolls you? That’s a win. Landed a sweep? Win. Finished warm-ups without dying? Win. The path is made of small victories—celebrate them.

6. Accept that plateaus are normal.

Some months you’ll feel like you're leveling up weekly. Other times, nothing clicks. That’s normal. Progress isn’t linear, and the plateau is often a sign that something deeper is about to shift.

7. Make one friend on the mat.

Training is easier when you have someone to look forward to seeing. A training buddy can keep you accountable, motivated, and laughing through the hard rolls.

8. Try a new class format.

Switch it up. Fundamentals, advanced, NoGi, drilling classes—new formats can refresh your brain and reignite your drive. It’s still jiu jitsu, just from a different angle.

9. Ignore belt pressure.

The belt will come. Obsessing over promotions only adds unnecessary stress. Focus on your training, your improvement, your enjoyment—and let the rank take care of itself.

10. Remember why you started.

Was it to feel stronger? More confident? To challenge yourself or escape stress? Reconnect with that reason. Jiu jitsu isn’t always fun—but it’s always worth it.

Final Thought:Quitting is easy. But staying—especially when it’s hard—is where the magic happens. Wherever you are on your jiu jitsu path, know that you’re not alone. We've all felt it. Keep going.

See you on the mat.