Ryan Aitken, a 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and PGF Season 7 champion, shares his journey from lacrosse to grappling, highlighting key lessons in training and competition. He discusses the importance of intentional training and supplements for performance, especially for longevity in the sport. Ryan dives into leg lock techniques, the evolution of competition strategies, and the significance of a strategic mindset during matches. The conversation also touches on the camaraderie in the jiu-jitsu community and exciting future plans within the sport.
Ryan Aitken discusses transitioning to 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu, highlighting the importance of understanding concepts over mere technique imitation.
He emphasizes the critical role of proper supplementation with Grapple Science for maintaining performance and focus during competitions.
Ryan shares insights on mental resilience and recovery methods after intense competitions, underlining the emotional challenges athletes face.
Deep dives
Ryan Aiken's Competitive Journey
Ryan Aiken transitioned from a background in self-defense Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to competing in MMA before refocusing on grappling. His training began at a Gracie University affiliate where he initially trained under Eddie Camden, eventually pursuing competitive Jiu-Jitsu on the IBJJF circuit at Alliance. A turning point came when he started training with Sean Applegate, where he immersed himself in a more rigorous approach to Jiu-Jitsu, honing his understanding of techniques and competition strategies. The shift in training emphasized grappling concepts and enabled him to improve his performances in various competitions, paving the way for his success at events like the PGF.
Training Philosophy and Methods
Ryan emphasized the importance of training intentions and being deliberate with techniques to progress in Jiu-Jitsu. He discussed how Sean Applegate's coaching focuses on understanding the concepts behind movements rather than just imitating them, making training more effective. Ryan also highlighted the value of drilling specific techniques, like entering heel hooks and rear naked chokes, incorporating feedback to refine his approach. This method has helped him not only during practice but also in applying those techniques successfully during competition.
Grapple Science Supplementation
During the podcast, Ryan shared his positive experience using Grapple Science supplements to enhance focus and energy during training and competitions. He noted that the supplement helps him avoid the jitters commonly associated with other energy products, boosting his performance without side effects. He relied on these supplements during the intense PGF competition week, where maintaining clarity and energy levels was crucial. This highlights the importance of proper supplementation for athletes to maintain peak performance.
The Challenges of Competitive Jiu-Jitsu
Ryan discussed the physical and mental challenges faced during intense competitions like the PGF, where competitors grapple multiple times in one evening. He noted the necessity of proper recovery techniques, such as cold and hot baths, to alleviate soreness and fatigue throughout the demanding week. Mentally, he experienced what he described as a 'post-trip depression' after the competition, reflecting on the emotional highs and lows of achieving a significant goal. This brings attention to the mental resilience needed in the sport and the importance of managing expectations and feelings after intense experiences.
Future Goals and Continued Growth
Looking ahead, Ryan remains focused on continuing his competitive journey, including an upcoming match against Gabriel Almeida at the UFC Fight Pass Invitational. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with sponsors who align with his own values and goals, seeking support for his endeavors in competitive Jiu-Jitsu. Ryan's ambition reflects his dedication not only to improving his skills but also to finding a balance between competition and personal growth. His experiences and lessons learned pave the way for further progress in his Jiu-Jitsu career.
Ryan Aitken is a 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt, ADCC veteran, EBI Absolute Champion, Combat Jiu-Jitsu Champion, and the PGF Season 7 champion.
Ryan joins the podcast to discuss his start in Jiu-Jitsu, deciding to switch gyms to train with Sean Applegate at 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu Atlanta, important concepts that are forgotten in Jiu-Jitsu, strengthening and training the body for longevity, Ryan's unique way to improve hand-eye coordination, his experience competing in season 7 of the Professional Grappling Federation, most valuable lesson learned from the PGF competition, his thoughts on training leg locks, and how Ryan started working with "Grapple Science."
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