Private Lessons: What to expect

I have been thinking about getting some private lessons but before I do I thought I'd try to get some feedback about what to expect.

Does the instructor drive the lesson or is it up to the student who is paying for the lesson to dictate what the instructor teaches?

Would it be advantageous to bring along another guy so that the instructor can see how I am performing a technique?

I'd appreciate any feedback.

TMG

 

expect to get much better much quicker.

 

if your first private goes like mine, expect to have your fucking mind blown. tape the lesson if you can or at least take a piece of paper to write down some notes...its a lot of technique in a short amount of time. also, go in there with some specific stuff you want to work on. for example, i spent an hours private on taking the back of a turtled opponent and expanding my attacks from the back.

 

Have Fun! The rules for private lessons often vary from instructor to instructor. Be sure to ask for advice. Who is tutoring you?

Depends. Sometimes I'll have a list of things I want to go over; other times the teacher already has a lesson plan.

Sometimes it is better to have a class of two; however, that certainly would cost extra. I leave it up to my instructor to schedule individual or dual classes.

 

I'd say go in there with an idea of what you'd like to improve, what part of their game you'd like to investigate or integrate into your own and ask them for as many pointers as possible. For example, if I were training with Marcelo Garcia, I'd ask him about his set ups to take the back. When I had a private with Eduardo Telles he gave me pointers on turtle guard and octopus guard. If I were training with JJ Machado I'd ask him about his grips and modified sweeps. Try to learn as much as you can and make sure you take a note pad or video camera so you get your money's worth.

 

Why does it cost extra to have two people? It should cost the same amount, and probably end up being cheaper since you can split the private cost with the other person.

Anybody who charges more to have a two man private as opposed to a one man private is ripping you off.

 

good thread. i'm thinkin of having my first as well. problem is i really respect all the teachers, alot. i don't wanna play favorites... what the hell do i do?

 

Cassio Werneck - World Champion - Mundials (2003) and one of the most humble guys I have ever met. That is the reason I signed up after the my first class. His teaching style if awesome and that's why I'm looking at private instruction to step up my game.

The extra cost is really not a factor not that I am bragging but I make a very good living so I do not mind spending money on my BJJ. In fact it has become me primary obsession. It has even made my marriage better since I do not have the energy to go clubbin(and chasin' b*tches) like I used to.

F*ck it I'm gonna just drive in but thanks for your feedback,
TMG

 

The video tape is a great idea. Thanks man!

Regards,
TMG

 

Gracie student,

You should find the instructor that you have the best rappoire. Loyalty is big in the BJJ game ask a guy like Roy Harris who was basically was black balled for years based on a mis-understanding.

Bottomline: Game recognizes game.

I'm starting my "privates" in Feburary I'll keep you guys posted.