In jiu-jitsu we must always anticipate our opponent’s move. This is one of jiu-jitsu’s guiding principles (some may think that this too simplistic and that I am stating the obvious; yet my suggestion is that it is worth to read this posting).

Why do I say that anticipation is one of jiu-jitsu’s guiding principles? Well, this is easy to explain.

First, because —if you don’t anticipate and impose your game on your opponent— he will impose his on you and dictate the fight. This means you won’t be doing your agressive jiu-jitsu game — and going for the submission, like you should—, and will be passively defending his attacks (countering and blocking techniques aren’t your jiu-jitsu game and strategy after all, right?).

Second, because —if you are both same level— if you anticipate your opponent’s moves by imposing your game on him, you have a much better chance of success (sucess, to me, means “submitting your opponent and winning the fight”).

Third, because anticipation means that you can set up a real position, or feint one, and —by anticipating how your opponent will react to such position—, you will attack him in circumstances more suitable to you once he reacts. In plain English, you will drive your opponent to the position you need him to be for your attack, or you will open up the space you need to apply it.

Last, by anticipating and dictating the fight —imposing your game on your opponent—, you may very well surprise and catch him with a submission hold. If you don’t anticipate, and he does it, then your opponent will be one step ahead of you. And the advantage will be his…

Pedro Alberto