How to Build a Better BJJ Training Log: Templates, Fields & Analysis

Too many practitioners leave class with loose notes, fuzzy memory, and no plan—so progress stalls. A structured BJJ training log changes that. With templates, smart fields, and quick review methods, you can capture lessons, spot patterns, and accelerate learning.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

The core fields every log needs
Paper vs. digital pros and cons
Review routines that turn notes into progress
Free templates (PDF + Notion pack) to get started

Whether you’re a white belt learning fundamentals or a black belt refining strategies, this system makes logging simple and effective.

Why Keep a BJJ Training Log?

Tracking training is more than note-taking—it boosts recall, accountability, and measurable growth. Here’s why the habit works.

Primary Benefits

Better recall: Writing techniques and sparring takeaways helps you remember details and repeat what worked.
Accountability: A log makes gaps and skipped sessions obvious.
Faster growth: Structured entries highlight patterns so you can drill smarter.

Proof from the community

Dozens of dedicated journals sell on Amazon, such as The Practitioner’s Journal, Justice BJJ planner, and Bushido logbooks.
Reviews are strong—The Practitioner’s Journal averages 4.8/5 stars, and others score above 4.2.

Explore The Practitioner’s Journal →

Paper vs. Digital: Which Fits You?

Paper advantages: boosts recall, creates ritual, and makes post-class review simple.
Digital advantages: searchable, trackable, and easier for long-term metrics.
Both are popular—Reddit discussions show practitioners split between the tactile feel of pen-and-paper and the convenience of apps.

How to Use a BJJ Training Log Effectively

Log the date, class focus, and techniques taught.
Record rolling notes, intensity (1–10), and fatigue/injuries.
Add tags or index entries (guard pass, sweep, submission) for easy lookup.
Write a plan for the next session based on patterns.

Key takeaway: a log won’t replace mat time, but it increases the value of each session.

What to Include in Your Log (Templates & Fields)

A high-impact BJJ training log balances daily notes with long-term reflections.

Core daily fields:

Date & class type (gi/no-gi, open mat, seminar)
Daily goal (short focus)
Health check (fit, sore, injured)
Techniques with step notes
Rolling/positional notes
Post-training analysis (intensity, volume, key takeaway)
Planned drills for next session

Technique tracking & indexing:

Tag entries by category (guard, back-takes, submissions).
Use an index page for quick lookup.

Reflection spreads:

Monthly prompts like What worked?, What to drill?, What’s the next goal?

Catalog pages:

Track milestones—belt promotions, competitions, seminars, and training partners.

📌 Example: The Practitioner’s Journal
combines all these features in one jiu jitsu journal.

How to Analyze Your BJJ Training Log

Logging only matters if you review consistently. Use these systems:

Daily habit:

Make a short post-class entry.
Record intensity, volume, health, and one immediate takeaway.

Weekly review:

Scan your index and reflections.
Pick 2–3 drills or positions to focus on next week.

Monthly reflection:

Look for trends in your rolling outcomes.
Adjust long-term goals for competitions or belt prep.

Metrics to track:

Training frequency, technique usage, intensity, health levels, and rolling outcomes.

Paper vs. Digital: Which Wins Long-Term?

Paper: Best for recall and ritual.
Digital: Best for search, stats, and trend tracking.

Choose whichever format you’ll stick with—the system matters more than the medium.

Final Takeaway

A consistent BJJ training log transforms mat time into measurable progress. Start small:

Log class details, intensity, and one takeaway.
Index techniques after class.
Spend 5 minutes weekly turning patterns into drills.

Try a training log for 30 days and track the difference. Which system—paper or digital—fits your style? Share your results in the comments.