BJJ Game Planning Guide

A solid game plan means you enter competition knowing exactly what you'll do. It's not reacting; it's executing a prepared strategy. This requires self-knowledge, opponent analysis, and tactical flexibility.

Self-Knowledge

• What are your best techniques? (guards, passes, submissions, takedowns)
• What's your pace? (fast/aggressive, slow/methodical, reactive)
• What's your conditioning level? (can you go 100% for 10 minutes?)
• What are your weak areas? (escapes, leg defense, pressure tolerance)

Opponent Analysis

Research your opponent: their preferred positions, favorite submissions, typical pace. Watch competition footage. Identify patterns: "Do they prefer leg attacks from 50-50?" or "Do they always pull to guard?"

Strategy Development

Based on analysis, develop 2-3 primary strategies and backup strategies. Example: "Primary: pass to side control, maintain pressure, avoid leg lock engagement. Secondary: sit back, engage 50-50, execute heel hook defense if necessary."

In-Match Execution

Execute your plan but stay adaptive. If your primary strategy isn't working after 3-4 minutes, shift to secondary strategy. Never rigidly stick to a failing plan.