#12: Sam Fields

Dive into the coaching philosophy of Sam "Battle" Fields on "BJJ Coaching Convos" with host Kabir Bath. In this episode, Sam shares his journey and insights into adopting the Constraint-Led Approach (CLA) in his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training sessions. From customizing his coaching to meet student needs to exploring flow states within the CLA framework, Sam discusses the nuances of evolving coaching strategies and the continuous reflection on his and his students' progress. He emphasizes the importance of feedback, the role of reflection and visualization in enhancing coaching effectiveness, and the joy found in lifelong learning and conversations with fellow coaches. For anyone passionate about advancing their coaching methods and fostering a deeper connection with students, Sam's reflections offer valuable perspectives on personal and student development within the dynamic world of BJJ.

**Show Overview:**

Kabir and Sam kick off the conversation by delving into Sam's current coaching journey, discussing the inception of his YouTube channel as a platform for reviewing progress and sharing insights. Sam talks about moving beyond traditional technique-focused teaching to emphasize the desired effects and outcomes in BJJ training.

The dialogue explores Sam's challenge to conventional BJJ mindsets, highlighting his commitment to modernizing training techniques and nurturing a 'forever student' mentality within himself and his students. Sam shares his experiences with flow states and ecological dynamics in coaching, linking these concepts to effective learning environments and the cultivation of a supportive training culture.

Sam reflects on the importance of evaluating coaching sessions, seeking feedback, and the psychological aspects of training that contribute to building winning programs. He underscores the power of asking meaningful questions and encouraging student participation in the reflection process as key elements of his coaching process.

The conversation also touches on the beauty of consistent training, the power of visualization and imagery, and the challenges and rewards of coaching large groups. Sam expresses his appreciation for continuous learning and the opportunities to learn from conversations with experienced coaches from various backgrounds.

**Closing Thoughts:**

Thank you for joining us on "BJJ Coaching Convos" for this insightful conversation with Sam Fields. Sam's journey through the realms of BJJ coaching, his embrace of innovative approaches, and his dedication to reflection and growth highlight the evolving landscape of martial arts training. If you're inspired to explore new dimensions of coaching or seek to deepen your engagement with students, Sam's story offers encouragement and direction for your journey. Engage with us and share your experiences and insights as we continue to explore the transformative power of coaching in BJJ. Until next time, keep seeking flow in your practice, embrace the path of continuous learning, and cherish the connections and conversations that shape our coaching philosophies.