Retention is one of the biggest struggles for some programs and gyms. A whole host of issues go into what makes someone stay or go. Some of which is outside of some instructor's or even the owner's control.
Effective Communication
Students can IM, Text, Call, or pull me aside when they have issues or questions. I believe that no JiuJitsu topic is off limits between a student and instructor. The old school way of thought it that you should never question the actions of an instructor. This includes why certain rules are in place or how the decision on promotions is done.
I don't believe in any of this. I want my students to ask about how I approach teaching, training, and promotions. I've had conversations with students who I knew I would not be promoting so that we're on the same page.
One of the biggest areas of contention for students and instructors is unclear expectations. It is an instructor's job to be far more specific and transparent than we have been during previous generations.
Rolling
I try to roll with as many students as possible, no matter the rank. I understand that some of the older instructors have to be a bit more selective due to their health, but some many refuse to train with White Belts because they feel that they're above it.
I have a few reason I roll with as many students as possible.
I want students to understand how to roll, so part of my unofficial onboarding is to feel them out during the round. If they're overly aggressive, I want to get them to calm down a bit. But it also allows me to be careful with who I allow them to roll with.
One of my reasons is to show that I care about their development and that there is absolutely nothing special about the rank that I wear that would exclude me from being their training partner.
Comp Support
If a student is competing, I do my best to be there. It's always disheartening to see a student standing next to an empty chair. I've seen it happen more times than I'd like to admit. Some schools neglect the responsibility or view specific competitions as beneath their time. If you're student is competing, it is your responsibility as an instructor to be there.
It's not always fun, it's almost always a full day's event, but your student will appreciate the effort.
CoachNow
I utilize this for small groups chats and One on One video reviews. It is one of the most powerful tools that a coach can use. While it's not free, what you can do with the is priceless. Currently I have a White Belt group that I use to review and present techniques that I'm teaching. We set aside time for questions. I've found that they are a bit more comfortable asking on the app over at the end of class.
Conclusion
Retention can be incredibly challenging. Economies will waiver, other gyms will open, and your own attention and focus will wander depending on how life is going. The biggest thing you can do for students is treat them like adults and make sure they feel supported. How you do that is completely up to you.
DFM Coaching is dedicated to helping you overcome mental hurdles and achieve your full potential in BJJ. Whether through in-person instruction, seminars, private lessons, remote coaching, or video analysis, I provide personalized support tailored to your needs. Keep pushing forward, and let’s grow together!
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