When to Choose Between Drilling and Ecological Training in BJJ

There’s a lot of debate in the grappling world about drilling vs ecological training. Some grapplers, like Mikey Musumeci, are strongly pro-drilling. Others, like Kyvann Gonzalez, are very much in favor of ecological training. So, what’s the answer? Which one should you choose?

The quick answer: both.

We’ll break down the longer answer below.

Drilling vs Ecological: Pros and Cons

Both training methods have clear pros and cons. Each one has its place, depending on what you are trying to learn or improve.

Pros of Ecological Training:

• Increases problem-solving ability
• Improves general grappling ability
• Develops “soft skills” or grappling instincts
• More fun compared to pure drilling

Pros of Drilling:

• Builds technical skill and precision
• Low physical and mental stress
• Works well for all skill levels
• Provides a safe environment for practicing risky positions

The cons of each method are often the opposite of the other method’s pros. For example, one of the cons of ecological training is that it does not build technical skill as effectively, which is one of the strengths of drilling.

These two methods are on opposite ends of the training spectrum when used in isolation.

So which do you choose?

You should mix both, depending on your skill level with the technique or position you want to work on. Here are three examples:

1) Brand New to a Technique

Start with drilling only. You need to understand the key steps that lead to success before you can add live resistance. This initial drilling phase doesn’t have to last long. Once you are comfortable, you can transition into games (ecological) based on the position.

Example game: One person starts in front headlock with the goal of getting a d’arce finish. The other person’s goal is to escape or reverse the position. Switch roles when someone scores or achieves their goal.

2) Intermediate Skill with a Technique

At this stage, you likely need less drilling. Drilling can be part of your warmup. After that, you can move on to specific ecological games using the position.

3) Very Comfortable with a Technique

If you are already confident with the technique, you can focus on less constrained training. Situational live matches are best here, with an emphasis on hitting the technique under realistic conditions.

Your training partner will not have a fixed goal, and they won’t know what you are working on, making it feel more like a real match. For example you can start from a more ambiguous position like standing, front headlock, half guard, etc.

Summary:

• New to a technique/position → More drilling
• Solid with a technique/position → More ecological games
• Very good at a technique/position → Situational live, focusing on getting the specific technique you want

Conclusion

Both drilling and ecological training are essential. The key is knowing when to use each method based on your experience with the move or position. A healthy balance between the two will lead to better overall grappling.