Strength & Conditioning for BJJ
I am not a certified trainer. Yet, I am confident that I can help you with your workouts!
I spent a lot of time reading about Strength and Conditioning (S&C). What did I learn? S&C is both very complex and very simple. If your goal is to have peak performance on a competition day, you need a personal trainer and a pretty good one! If your goal is to get stronger and be more performant on a general level, you don't need one. All you need is time, dedication, and good programs!
What follows is my training regimen. Every week follows the same pattern.
Monday - Wednesday - Friday: Workouts
Tuesday - Thursday: Cardio
I switch program every three months, so my body doesn't get used to a type of workout. Plus, lifting heavy weights all year long is not the best idea for longevity. If you don't like one program, do something else. It would be best to enjoy the grind; otherwise, you won't be consistent. Three times a week, every week, is a serious effort.
WORKOUTS
StrongLifts 5x5
As the name suggests, the StrongLifts 5x5 program is about lifting heaving weights. Five reps of five sets per movement (Squat / Bench Press / Barbell Row / Overhead Press / Deadlift), and you increase the weight by 2.5kg/5lb (5kg/10lb for the Deadlift) at every session!
It's a simple yet very challenging program. You will get stronger! The free app is great for keeping track of your sessions and progress.
Bodyweight / Calisthenics
Bodyweight training is excellent, especially after three months of stronglifts! You will develop your strength and endurance.
I use thenx.com, but there are many alternatives.
Kettlebells
Train like a Russian! I use the Kettlebell Workout Wizard app
The app will generate workouts and show you the proper forms for the movements. All you need is some Kettlebells! It's free; it's simple; it's excellent!
Daru Strong's Ground Control
Ground Control is a specific program designed by a pro trainer for grapplers.
You will develop your isometric strength, a strong posterior chain, and will do specific mobilization techniques.
CARDIO
The idea is simple: you need to be between 120-150 bpm for 20 to 30min.
I propose three types of cardio training. I usually do Shadow Wrestling, but you can pick the one you want.
Shadow Wrestling
Visualize and practice your wrestling moves. Make sure to bend those knees! I believe you should do most of your cardio training with this one.
Kettlebell Swing/Snatch
Grab a light kettlebell and perform swings or snatch. Don't stop, don't rest during the workout.
Wrestle Rope
For this one, you need a wrestle rope. I got mine from Coach Otto. Excellent quality and superb customer service. If you need one, I highly recommend it. Simply send him a message. You can find several wrestle rope exercises on his Instagram. It will mimic your wrestling moves, adding the band resistance.
Note: I do not have any affiliation with THENX, Daru Strong, or Seb Otto.
IN SHORT
Five S&C sessions per week. Three workouts, two cardio training. Switch workout program every three months.
Be consistent, be disciplined, and enjoy the grind!
If you have any questions, requests, suggestions, or if you just wanna chat, send me an email or a message on Instagram @maxigarami, and I'll be more than happy to talk with you and to hear your feedback.
