3 Essential Habits of World Champions

"The secret is consistency over intensity on the mats..." With over 30 years on the mats, Professor Carlos Lemos Jr. has built strong habits into his lifestyle allowing him to compete at the highest levels of sport Jiu-Jitsu.

1. Be Passionate

“Love the community, the friendship on the mats, the laughs, the end of the class messages and the guidance from your peers.” 

“Feel like you can’t get enough. Be there everyday; if you can’t train due to injury you can still watch. There is always a lesson to be learned, waiting for you. Be there everyday!”

2. Be Consistent 

“The secret is consistency over intensity on the mats. Just think about how many rough training partners you had that didn’t survive the process over the years… getting hurt easily.”

Repeat drills more than necessary. Build muscle memory. 

3. Go for the Marathon, Not the Sprint

“Have a long term perspective. Do not get caught up with a short-term plan! One medal today doesn’t mean anything tomorrow - just like a defeat today doesn’t mean anything tomorrow.”

Don’t love the medal, love the journey!

"When you love the journey and you follow all these habits above, medals will come as a consequence of your love for Jiu-Jitsu, your hunger for knowledge, your consistency on the mats, your perfection of skill from repetition and your long term perspective."

Professor Lemos doesn't focus his advice on a specific type of workout, competition game or supplements; instead he stresses the importance of our mental approach to day in and day out consistency, maintaining our motivation over the long haul and above all...loving the journey of Jiu-Jitsu.

To reach our full potential not only as Gracie Barra competitors, but as human beings, we should look to embrace these habits on and off the mats.

GB CompNet Tournaments offer a friendly and safe environment to do this --  Competing with other Gracie Barra members, stimulating the competitive environment, and allowing you to grow and get better together. 

Stay tuned for upcoming CompNet Tournaments in your region. 

Blog Written by Mark Mullen - Gracie Barra Black Belt