#44 - A student's perspective - Standard's Noah Shaffner talks about learning to grapple at the black temple.
Oct 24, 2023
auto_awesome
Noah Schaffner, a 17-year-old student mentored by Greg Souders, discusses his unique understanding of jiu-jitsu and its methodologies. They explore topics like ecological skill development, perception-action coupling, differential learning, creating a strong gym culture, and the difference between training for technique versus performance.
Noah Schaffer discovered his passion for grappling and Jiu Jitsu through instructional videos and training at the Standard gym.
Competition experience helped Noah recognize the importance of skillful grappling and the dedication required to compete.
Standard Jiu Jitsu emphasizes high standards for consistency, focus, and intention in training, prioritizing body awareness and principles over specific techniques.
Noah emphasizes the value of being receptive to new information and the importance of honing skills through ongoing exploration and practice.
Deep dives
Noah's Background and Introduction to Standard Jiu Jitsu
Noah Shafner, a student of Greg Souders and member of the standard Jiu Jitsu grappling team, discusses his journey and how he got started in martial arts. He shares that he initially wanted to box but ended up finding his way to Jiu Jitsu through watching instructional videos, particularly from Danaher and the blue basement. Noah describes his passion for grappling and the dedication he found in training at the standard gym.
The Value of Competition Experience
Noah talks about his early competition experience and the lessons he learned from it. He shares how he accidentally signed up for a competition without being on the official competition team but was allowed to compete anyway. Despite facing tough opponents and some initial losses, Noah found value in the intense training and competition experience, recognizing the importance of skillful grappling and the dedication required to compete.
The Importance of Fundamentals and Standards
Noah discusses the focus on fundamentals and standards at standard Jiu Jitsu. He explains that while Greg Souders doesn't emphasize techniques or drills statically, he sets high standards for consistency, focus, and intention in training. Noah highlights the importance of being aware of how your body affects your opponent's body and how adherence to certain principles can lead to skill development regardless of specific techniques.
The Role of Perception and Openness to New Information
Noah reflects on the ever-evolving nature of scientific understanding and how coaches and practitioners need to be open to new information. He praises Greg Souders and others in the Jiu Jitsu community for their willingness to admit mistakes and continually seek knowledge. Noah emphasizes the value of being receptive to new information and the importance of honing skills through ongoing exploration and practice.
Importance of Training Under Live Resistance
Training under live resistance is emphasized as the most effective approach to skill acquisition. The podcast argues that training with live resistance allows individuals to develop the necessary skills and general understanding before delving into specific techniques and moves.
The Role of Perception and Interaction with the Environment
The podcast highlights the ecological approach to skill acquisition, which emphasizes the relationship between the individual, the environment, and the task. It suggests that valuable information and skill emerge from actively engaging with the environment and gaining experience through interaction.
Challenges to Traditional Approaches and the Value of Uncertainty
The podcast challenges traditional approaches to skill acquisition that focus on strict techniques and moves. It argues that these approaches may be limiting and suggests that a more open-ended and exploratory approach, coupled with live resistance training, allows for greater adaptability and skill emergence. The speaker encourages individuals to embrace uncertainty and to be open to different perspectives and critiques in order to continue progressing and improving.
Today, I chat with Noah Shaffner from the Standard Jiu-Jitsu Grappling Team, mentored by Greg Souders. Unlike my usual guests who are coaches or academics, Noah stands out as a student who has embraced the ecological approach to skill development. Despite being only 17, his insights into the sport and its methodologies are profound. While many might assume he's echoing Coach Souders, Noah showcases a unique understanding. He's definitely one to watch in the sport's future.
After recording with Greg and Kit Dale, known for championing live resistance training, I spoke with Noah. He even invites anyone interested to visit the Standard team in Rockville, Maryland.
While I aim to delve more into MMA, the upcoming episodes remain grappling-focused. Your support and feedback inspire me to continue this journey.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
