Learning Jiu Jitsu

[G.K.]

Hello Jocko,

I have been training Jiu Jitsu for just over a year now and although I like the instructor and I like some of my training partners overall I don't feel comfortable training at the gym I am currently at. I am by no means a natural athlete however I have enjoyed success in other physical activities culminating in championships both as an individual and as part of a team. I am not sure how to assess if I should or if I should stay at this school or if I should leave, I feel as if my learning style doesn't quite match up. I enjoy the challenge of jiu jitsu but after a year I thought that I would be more capable, I get the occasional arm-bar and the occasional choke but when I look at the other people who have started around the same time I have they are much further along.

Recap:

1. How can I asses if I should leave or stay?
2. If I choose to leave How can I select a good school?

[mynewunit]

1. Talk to your instructors. Chances are they see where you are lacking and might be able to tell you how to fix that. It might be you are getting gassed, have to correct bad instincts, or see the "flow".
2. I would try another school or a guest instructor. Gracie gyms typically have a guest instructor a few times a year. These are open to non members and have a fee for all who attend. Another school might have a different vibe or goal. Sometimes gyms don't have an end game. Others train for competition, advancement, or other external means of measurement. What is the "goal" of you gym? What is the goal of the other gyms.