Memorizing moves is an understandable starting point. It provides structure, repetition, and a sense of progress. But it is inherently limited. A move memorized in isolation cannot survive once variables shift.

A perfect armbar from Closed Guard during drilling collapses when the opponent retracts their arm or changes posture. The memorized “answer” only works in ideal conditions.

Memorization does not answer the deeper questions:

Without these, memorization produces rigid technicians rather than adaptive problem solvers.

Supporting evidence: Research in motor learning consistently shows that variable (or random) practice (training under different, unpredictable conditions—leads to superior long-term retention and transfer of skills compared to blocked, repetitive drills. In other words, adaptability, not memorization, is what sticks (Gymdesk, 2023).

Every position is a question. Every movement is a proposed answer. The match is a dialogue of problem creation and problem solving.

This method shifts training from rote execution to dynamic reasoning.

Techniques are applications of principles. Principles—leverage, angles, pressure management—are transferable across all positions.

By studying principles, the practitioner gains the ability to invent, adapt, and troubleshoot—skills unavailable to those bound to technique memorization.

Problem solvers do not roll passively. They anticipate patterns, strategize, and use observation to shape decisions.

Supporting evidence: Expert-novice comparisons in sport show that experienced athletes see patterns sooner, anticipate cues, and maintain decision-making under pressure more effectively than beginners. Eye-tracking and workload studies reveal that experts process information more efficiently and make better choices in “open” dynamic sports—exactly the environment Jiu-Jitsu creates (Williams et al., Journal of Sports Sciences, 2011).

As Viktor Frankl wrote, “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response.” On the mats, that space is where problem solvers thrive.

Failure is inevitable—but it is not loss. It is feedback.

Thomas Edison’s line applies directly: “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

Problem solvers innovate, combine, and improvise. They are unpredictable because they are not bound by rigid sequences.

Supporting evidence: In combat sports coaching, the ecological dynamics approach emphasizes “representative learning design”—drills that replicate real, unpredictable pressure so that skills are transferable. This framework is now being applied in MMA and grappling training to cultivate adaptability over rote repetition (Renshaw et al., International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching, 2024).

The mindset cultivated on the mats extends beyond Jiu-Jitsu:

Supporting evidence: A review of martial arts training shows improvements not only in physical fitness but also in executive function, decision-making, and problem solving skills across different age groups (Cardiff University Press, Martial Arts Studies, 2023).

The principle is the same: problems are solvable if approached with the right mindset.

Why did this succeed? Why did that fail? Why was their control effective?

Focus on frames, weight distribution, leverage, and timing.

If stuck, explore possibilities rather than stalling.

Treat rolls as open-ended problem sets rather than opportunities to “hit” specific moves.

Journal, review, or mentally replay rolls. Extract lessons from each scenario.

The essence of Jiu-Jitsu is problem solving. Memorization may offer short-term success, but it cannot withstand the chaos of real resistance. By adopting the mindset of a problem solver—anchored in principles, guided by awareness, and fueled by adaptability—you elevate beyond technician to strategist, beyond executor to artist.

Einstein captured it well: “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” On the mats, intelligence is not the recall of techniques but the ability to evolve solutions under pressure.

To train Jiu-Jitsu is to train problem solving. To embrace that truth is to truly understand the art.