Jiujitsu Couples Therapy

In this episode we ask: who are you avoiding in the training room and why? We discuss the psychological concept of confirmation bias and how it affects your training progress, mindset, and relationships on the mats. We explore the many ways in which our biases play politics, cliques and teaching methods in the gym and look at practical ways to identify and challenge these ingrained mental patterns...

In this episode we discuss: How to find your footing as a new blue belt- what you should focus on and what realistic goals to set, how to look for opportunities within your gym to build leadership skills. Also, it’s ok to be a hobbyist, jiujitsu doesn’t have to be your whole life, how to overcome boredom in jiujitsu as so much more. 00:35 - The significance of blue belt as a milestone and common e...

We discuss: whether BJJ is really good for kid’s self defense, will jiujitsu make my kid into a bully, the value of learning martial arts virtues (discipline, confidence, courage) at a young age, coaching leadership styles, I hate losing in front of my coach (and he/she probably hates watching you lose), reenforcing positive mindsets no matter the outcome and so much more. (00:00) - Introduction:...

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gym Etiquette 07:27 Observing and Adapting to Different Cultures 13:57 Understanding Uniform Policies 19:14 Respecting Training Norms and Rolling Light 28:10 Creating a Welcoming Environment as a Coach 38:22 Final Thoughts on Gym Etiquette  Resources Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Etiquette Guide - https://www.bjjheroes.com/bjj-news/bjj-etiquette-guide IBJJF Rules and Policies...

In this episode we discuss: the fallout from the Atos situation and the muted response to it, how can jiujitsu clean it’s image in light of a slew of similar allegations, women in co-equal positions of power at BJJ gyms (but how that might not be silver bullet for the current situation), women defending the patriarchy when it serves them, it’s time for a real, accountable governing body for Americ...

In this episode we discuss: The 3-3-3 rule, a scientifically-backed way to improve your focus and intentionality in training and grow new skills quicker, the importance of being curious about jiu-jitsu, understanding all the ways getting into specific positional engagements, unrealistic expectations of kids, character is the most important skill and commodification and gentrification of jiu-jitsu.

In this episode we discuss: Getting promoted, the significance of stripes to the human reward system, what stripes actually mean, jiujitsu is a luxury good, how gym owners can reward loyalty in trying economic times, the challenges of changing gyms once you’ve become an established grappler, what happens when real physical conflicts happen at the gym, is a testosterone problem or a culture problem...

In this episode we talk with Dr. Andy Moon, Physical Therapist, specializing in treating Jiujitsu athletes. We talk about protocols for training off the mat to help keep you on the mats, common injuries and how to mitigate them, advice for injured grapplers, the importance of being a specialist who understand the sport of jiujitsu, ineffective bjj warm ups, over training and so much more. Also, wa...

In the bonus episode we give tips on successful New Years Resolutions for jiujitsu, reflect on our injuries of year, and provide a wishlist for the jiujitsu community in 2026. Chapters 00:00 New Year Reflections and Intentions 05:43 The Importance of Cool Down Routines 12:17 Finding Joy and Playfulness in Training 18:13 Redefining Goals and Achievements in Jiu-Jitsu 23:25 Wishes for the Jiu-Jitsu...

In this episode of Jiu-Jitsu Couples Therapy, we discuss the reality that most of us can’t beat a 20 blue belt who wrestles, gyms that don’t take drop-ins, there are people you should avoid training with, why we don’t roll every class, our relationship makes certain people uncomfortable, some guys just want to be jerks and the fallacy that’s ok because we’re a “Fight Gym.” Chapters 05:28 Experienc...

YouTube Jiujitsu/Kids Pay the Bills In this week’s episode we discuss: journaling as a means to retain knowledge after class, way in which you should and shouldn’t use YouTube and learning the difference between looking cool and possibly hurting your partner, video taping your rolls and analyzing them with a coach, kids class should be the most important to build for a gym owner, tips for coaches...

In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Couples Therapy, we discuss the importance of taking breaks, but also give you clues and cues for making sure you find your way back to training, the impact of betting on sports, pausing your gym membership and the downstream effects to your gym and team, ways to keep training even when your budget may not be able to afford it, we add to the no go vs go only debate and...

In this episode of Jiujitsu Couples Therapy, Joshua and Susan Citrak discuss the varied paths one takes to becoming a black belt, belt gauntlets, the tone they set for the gym and what other negative aspects of training it implicates. Traditions that aren’t useful should be examined and discarded. Joshua also reflects on the business side of Jiu Jitsu, the deep care they had for their students and...

In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Couples Therapy, the hosts discuss the dynamics of training together as a couple in the context of Jiu Jitsu. They explore the balance between competition and teaching, the importance of playfulness in training, and how to enhance the experience for all partners involved. The conversation delves into the mindset of competitors versus instructors, the challenges of main...

In this episode of JJCT Joshua and Susan discuss their experiences at the No Gi Pans tournament in New York, how they barely make weight, navigated the pot heads in the parking lot, bemoaned the lack of facilities for athletes and crucially, didn’t try to fight the refs. They critique the IBJJF's tournament structure and express a desire for community engagement to improve the future of Jiu Jitsu....

In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Couples Therapy, the hosts discuss the importance of mindset in training, the value of competition in martial arts, and how to communicate effectively with training partners. They explore the debate on whether competing is necessary to truly understand Jiu Jitsu, emphasizing that intentional training and personal growth are key components of the journey. The conversati...

In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Couples Therapy, Joshua and Susan Citrak discuss the unique challenges and experiences of training in Jiu Jitsu as a couple, particularly during pregnancy and post-pregnancy. They emphasize the importance of community support, the realities of running a Jiu Jitsu gym, and the need for appreciation towards coaches. The conversation highlights the resilience required in...

In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Couples Therapy, Joshua and Susan Citrak discuss various aspects of training in Jiu Jitsu as a couple, including the dynamics of switching teams, the importance of choosing training partners wisely, and the unique challenges faced by older grapplers. They also delve into the significance of self-defense for women in martial arts and the pervasive issue of misogyny with...

In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Couples Therapy, Joshua and Susan discuss the complexities of training together as a couple in the martial arts world. They explore the dynamics of relationships within the gym, the challenges of dating fellow practitioners, and the importance of individual growth in Jiu Jitsu. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience, understanding, and the potential pitfalls...

Summary In this episode of Jiu-Jitsu Couples Therapy, Joshua and Susan discuss their experiences training together as a couple, the challenges of competition training as older grapplers, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. They also delve into the complexities of keeping their children engaged in Jiu-Jitsu, addressing issues of promotion and recognition, of wins and losses and th...

Summary In this episode of Jiu Jitsu Couples Therapy, Joshua and Susan discuss the dynamics of training together as a couple, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by older athletes in a sport often dominated by younger, stronger practitioners. They emphasize the importance of technique over strength, the need for mindfulness in training, and the significance of choosing the right training...