MONDAY MASTERY
Newsletter
Disconnected from Reality (and You Don’t Even Know It)
In today’s gym culture, the biggest performance killer isn’t bad form — it’s distraction. Everywhere you look, people finish a set only to scroll their phones. Even personal trainers are guilty of it.This article from The Practitioner’s Journal explores why being connected to the internet means being disconnected from reality — and how that separation is quietly killing our progress, focus, and ability to grow. Training isn’t just about physical strength; it’s about mental presence. True mastery happens when you learn to disconnect from digital noise and reconnect with your body, your breath, and the process. Read how presence, discipline, and focus can transform not only your workouts but your entire approach to mastery, health, and performance.
How Many Times a Week Should You Train BJJ? — Complete Guide for Beginners & Hobbyists
Learn how often you should train BJJ — from 1–2x/week hobbyists to 5–6x/week competitors. Includes recovery, goals, and training tips.
The Unsexy Truth About World-Class Performers
Most people see the highlight reel — the medals, the lean physique, the big wins — but not the boring, repetitive work behind them. Mastery is mundane. Olympic athletes, elite performers, and world-class professionals build their edge through hundreds of small, unsexy habits stacked together over years. This article from The Practitioner’s Journal explains why the path to excellence isn’t magic or talent but dozens of micro-skills drilled into habit and performed consistently.
What Are the Belt Ranks in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu? — Complete Guide for Adults & Kids
A complete guide to BJJ belt ranks — white to black, kids belts, stripes, timelines, and what to focus on at each stage of your jiu jitsu journey.
What Gear Do I Need to Start Jiu Jitsu? — The Complete Beginner’s Guide
The essential BJJ gear checklist for beginners — gis, no-gi, mouthguards, cleaning tips, and a simple training-journal method to progress fast.
The Master or The Servant
Inspired by Epictetus, this article explores the difference between enjoying life and being controlled by it. Learn how resisting short-term pleasures builds freedom and discipline.
How Day 2 of the Craig Jones Invitational (CJI) Could Be Better
Day 2 of the Craig Jones Invitational 2025 is hopefully set to deliver more action and fewer stalemates. After a cautious Day 1 filled with draws and decisions, we break down key changes that could make CJI’s team format more exciting, analyze every matchup, and predict which squad is most likely to win. From roster strengths to submission bonuses and sudden-death overtime, this Day 2 guide gives you everything you need to follow the action like a pro.
What Is the Best Age to Start Jiu Jitsu?
Wondering what’s the best age to start Jiu Jitsu? The truth is, there’s no perfect time—whether you’re a kid building coordination, a teen developing confidence, or an adult looking for fitness and stress relief, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has benefits at every stage of life. From improving discipline and resilience to boosting strength and mobility, BJJ is a martial art you can start at any age. The best time to begin? Today.
Win Before You Begin
Most battles are won before they begin. Inspired by Sun Tzu, this edition of Mastery Monday explains why preparation — done in private — leads to confidence and success in public.
Is Jiu Jitsu Good for Self Defense?
Is Jiu Jitsu good for self defense? Discover why Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is one of the most effective martial arts for real-world situations. Learn key techniques, benefits, and how to start training for self-protection today.

