Gui Mendes recently sparked a lively discussion in the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community with his response to a question about the “ecological approach” to training. Mendes, known for his sharp wit and practical insights, dismissed the term with characteristic candor:
“You guys and these crazy names. Just say drilling with reaction. We use this training style since the days we were living in Brazil.”
While Mendes’ statement may seem like a quick dismissal, it reflects a broader criticism of the ecological approach and its rising influence in the BJJ world.
What Is the Ecological Approach in BJJ?
At its core, the ecological approach emphasizes discovery-based learning, often referred to as a constraints-led approach. This method encourages athletes to explore techniques and strategies within live scenarios, fostering adaptability and creativity. Proponents argue that this mirrors real-life grappling scenarios better than traditional drilling, which often focuses on repetition and memorization.
However, the terminology and theoretical underpinnings of the ecological approach—rooted in ecological psychology and dynamical systems theory—have sparked confusion and controversy. Critics argue that the movement leans heavily on complex jargon, with one commenter noting:
“I love training eco, but I cannot listen to Greg (Souders) talk about it. He comes off as if he’s throwing around random words he read in a research paper once to try and sound smart.”
Why Is the Ecological Approach Criticized?
Critics like Mendes and others point to several key issues:
- Overcomplication of Established Practices
Mendes’ remark reflects a sentiment shared by many experienced practitioners: EA is not a revolutionary concept. Coaches have incorporated reaction-based drilling for decades, long before the term “ecological approach” entered the lexicon. - Suitability for Beginners vs. Advanced Practitioners
While EA can be beneficial for beginners by encouraging natural learning patterns, it often frustrates experienced practitioners seeking to refine specific techniques. For example:- Learning a new takedown using EA might create unnecessary confusion for an experienced grappler expecting clear, chronological instruction.
- Preparing a new sweep for competition often requires precise, repetitive drilling to achieve mastery within a short timeframe.
- Lack of Evidence in BJJ Contexts
The ecological approach draws heavily from studies in other sports, such as baseball. However, the complexity of BJJ—marked by its vast vocabulary of techniques and dynamic exchanges—makes it challenging to validate EA’s superiority in this domain. - Polarizing Rhetoric
Some EA proponents have alienated traditionalists by dismissing them as outdated or unscientific. This tone has fueled backlash, with one commenter observing:
“The problem starts with the term ‘ecological approach’ and the repeated statement that EA coaches use ‘science,’ whereas ‘traditional’ coaches are lazy idiots.”
The ecological approach is neither a panacea nor a pointless fad. Many experienced coaches, including Mendes, have long integrated elements of discovery-based learning alongside traditional methods. The key lies in balance and adaptability:
- For Beginners: EA’s discovery-based style can be an excellent tool for engaging new students and fostering creativity.
- For Competitors: Traditional drilling remains indispensable for refining techniques and preparing for specific challenges.
As one commenter wisely concluded:
“There is no one, best way to teach every student. Good coaches have been incorporating elements of this approach since before it had a name.”
What now?
Gui Mendes’ critique serves as a reminder to avoid overcomplicating what works. The ecological approach, like any other training method, is a tool—useful in certain contexts but not universally superior. As BJJ evolves, the debate highlights the importance of staying grounded in practicality while remaining open to innovation.
So, what’s the takeaway? Whether you’re drilling with reaction or exploring new terminology, remember: effectiveness speaks louder than theory.
