We recently made a banner at El Dorado Hills Brazilian Jiu Jitsu with the phrase, “getting stronger together.” I really want to emphasize the “together” part in this phrase. There are meaningful, long lasting effects as a result of a group of people who train to get stronger together.

First, a group intent on training together creates a sense of community on and off the mat. Naturally, the more experienced students support the less experienced, showing them what to do and also what not to do. When people go out of their way to help someone or volunteer to teach kids, they are investing in the future and greater good of a stronger group. A group that trains together values it’s members regardless of how strong or weak they may be. Instead, the group values dedication, commitment, and contribution.

Second, a strong group will develop strong individuals, but strong individuals won’t develop the group. In an individual sport like Jiu-Jitsu, this might seem like a paradox. If someone is strong that should make the group strong, right? Not really. There is a sense of selflessness and collaboration that is essential in growing a strong group but usually lacks among individuals. The efforts of a group of people, united for the same cause, will outweigh the efforts by a group of strong individuals.

Essentially, the output and results from a strong group efforts can outweigh individual efforts. This is true when each and every person understands how to contribute their best self to the group. While everyone’s level of input doesn’t vary between individuals, the output of a group minded individual is much higher. People’s input to a task doesn’t vary, but what people get out of a group oriented effort is usually much more significant. A simple game of tug-a-war can show this phenomenon. The group that wins is not the group with the strongest person, but the group that knows how to time their pulls together. Hey literally become “stronger together.”

Here are some examples of the differences between strong individuals and a strong group.

• Showing up to practice on time: Do you show up when you feel like it, or at the mutually agreed time?
• During class: Are you present and attentive? Do you drill what the coach is showing or do what you feel like doing?
• Do you stay until the end: Does your practice end when you’re done or when the group is done?
• Do you go support tournaments: Do you compete? Go coach? Go cheer? Help competitors prepare in practice?

• Visiting other schools: do you drive down and go as an individual or as a group?
• Extracurricular: Do you show up to seminars hosted at the gym you attend?

There exists a sense of individualism in Jiu-Jitsu and other single competition sports. Taking responsibility for your diet, going on a run, and seeking out ways to improve yourself. You are responsible for yourself, and you need to take ownership of your actions. However, when you understand that your singular efforts can be maximized when applied and shared with a group, you really win.

As a result, when you understand and follow the idea of “getting stronger together,” you are able to reach new limits and at times surpass your potential. There is a difference between “getting strong,” and “getting stronger together.” As one of the leaders at EDH Jiu-Jitsu, it’s my goal to contribute to the team as we get stronger together.