Smooth Is Fast, But Fast Is Not Always Smooth
The Power of Patience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, there’s a saying we often share on the mats:
“Smooth is fast, but fast is not always smooth.”
At first, it sounds like a riddle. But the truth behind this phrase can change how you train, roll, and grow in Jiu-Jitsu—and even how you approach life.
Rushing Leads to Resistance
When you first start training, it’s natural to want to “go fast.” You want to pass the guard quickly, finish submissions, or hit that sweep before your partner reacts. But speed without control often leads to wasted energy, sloppy technique, and missed opportunities.
Jiu-Jitsu is like learning to play an instrument. If you race through the notes, the melody falls apart. But when you slow down, focus on precision, and allow your movements to connect seamlessly—everything begins to flow.
Smooth Is About Mastery
“Smooth” doesn’t mean slow. It means moving with purpose. It’s that feeling when your guard pass happens almost effortlessly because your timing, pressure, and positioning all work together. It’s when your submission lands because you set the traps step by step—not because you muscled through.
As you refine your fundamentals, speed becomes a natural byproduct of clean technique. That’s when “smooth becomes fast.”
Trust the Process
Whether you’re a white belt just learning your first hip escape or a seasoned competitor fine-tuning your game, the lesson is the same: don’t chase speed—build smoothness. Repetition, patience, and mindful drilling are what create real efficiency.
And the best part? This mindset carries beyond the mats. In life, rushing can lead to mistakes and frustration. But focusing on doing things well—one step at a time—creates momentum that’s both sustainable and powerful.
Join the Journey
At Otomi Martial Arts / Caio Terra BJJ, we believe that growth happens through patience, dedication, and a supportive community. Whether your goal is to compete, get in shape, or find a new passion, we’ll help you build smoothness in your technique and confidence in yourself.
Come train with us, slow things down, and discover how smooth can truly be fast.
Try a FREE class today and see how the journey begins.
📲 Call or text us (720) 926-5122 to get started!
Monday – October 13, 2025
12:00 pm (CT-B Advanced Fundamentals): Mounting from side control
4:15 pm (Kids I Alligators): Standing Pulling Closed Guard lesson plan
4:45 pm (Kids II Bobcats): Armbar crossing elbow lesson plan
4:45 pm (Pre-Teen Cougars): Armbar escape lesson plan
5:45 pm (CT-B Advanced Fundamentals): Mounting from side control
6:45 pm (CT-A Fundamentals): Modified Fall Break Schedule – No Class
Tuesday – October 14, 2025
12:00 pm (CT-A Fundamentals): Posturing and opening the closed guard
1:00 pm (Advanced Fitness Kickboxing): Coach Gonzalez
4:15 pm (Kids I Alligators): Standing Pulling Closed Guard lesson plan
4:45 pm (Kids II Bobcats): Armbar crossing elbow lesson plan
4:45 pm (Pre-Teen Cougars): Armbar escape lesson plan
5:45 pm (CT-A Fundamentals): Posturing and opening the closed guard
5:45 pm (CT-C Intermediate): Modified Fall Break Schedule – No Class
6:45 pm (NoGi all levels): Modified Fall Break Schedule – No Class
Wednesday – October 15, 2025
12:00 pm (CT-B Advanced Fundamentals): Kimura
1:00 pm (Kickboxing/Muay Thai): Coach Gonzalez
4:15 pm (Kids I Alligators): Standing Pulling Closed Guard lesson plan
4:45 pm (Kids II Bobcats): Armbar crossing elbow lesson plan
4:45 pm (Pre-Teen Cougars): Armbar escape lesson plan
5:45 pm (CT-A Fundamentals): Cross choke
6:45 pm (CT-B Advanced Fundamentals): Modified Fall Break Schedule – No Class
Thursday – October 16, 2025
12:00 pm (CT-A Fundamentals): Kimura
1:00 pm (Advanced Fitness Kickboxing): Coach Gonzalez
4:15 pm (Kids I Alligators): Standing Pulling Closed Guard lesson plan
4:45 pm (Kids II Bobcats): Armbar crossing elbow lesson plan
4:45 pm (Pre-Teen Cougars): Armbar escape lesson plan
5:45 pm (CT-A Fundamentals/Intro to BJJ): Kimura
5:45 pm (CT-C Intermediate): Modified Fall Break Schedule – No Class
6:45 pm (NoGi all levels): Modified Fall Break Schedule – No Class
Friday – October 17, 2025
12:00 pm (CT-B Advanced Fundamentals): No Lunch Class Today
4:45 pm (Nogi Kids II Bobcats): Armbar crossing elbow lesson plan
4:45 pm (Nogi Pre-Teen Cougars): Armbar escape lesson plan
5:45 pm (CT-B Advanced Fundamentals): Katagatame
6:45 pm Open Mat (Visitors Welcome)