#20 Aaron Murphy: Taking Ownership of your Training, Preparing for Competition and Cross Training!
In this episode of the Emerald Grappling Podcast, Aaron takes the mic for his first ever solo episode, offering a behind the scenes and honest look at how he is approaching training and competition in 2026.
He reflects on a tough return to competition last year, stepping onto the mats on just a few days’ notice after a two and a half year layoff and losing in under 20 seconds. Rather than avoiding the experience, Aaron explains how it reshaped his mindset and fuelled a decision to compete far more consistently in the year ahead. Drawing on advice from previous guest Oisin McCabe, he discusses the value of high match volume events like Grappling Industries and Grapple City, where round robin formats can give athletes dozens, even hundreds, of matches over time.
Aaron outlines why these competitions are now a priority. They provide more mat time, more live data, and the ability to record matches and bring them back to his coaches to identify gaps and make targeted improvements.
The conversation then shifts to training. Aaron speaks candidly about feeling directionless in previous years, showing up to sessions without a clear goal and seeing that lack of intent affect his development. This year, he is taking full ownership of his progress by entering each session with purpose, studying instructionals through platforms like The Art of Jiu Jitsu, and building a more structured learning approach outside the gym.
He also breaks down new Sunday training sessions with teammates focused on games, positional sparring, and system building. The aim is to create controlled, uncomfortable situations that develop confidence, problem solving, and sharper performances in competition.
Aaron closes the episode by thanking everyone who has supported the podcast over the past two years and showing appreciation to the guests who have welcomed him into their gyms and shared their time, knowledge, and experience.
⏱️ CHAPTERS
00:00 - 01:00 Intro
01:01 - 02:34 My Last Competition Experience
02:35 - 05:50 Round Robin Competitions for More Experience!
05:51 - 08:58 Taking Ownership of My Training
08:59 - 10:52 Ecological Approach to Jiu Jitsu Training Sessions
10:53 - 12:58 Benefits of Cross Training in Jiu Jitsu
12:59 - 13:55 Thanks for all the Support & Like Share and Subscribe
13:56 - 14:30 Outro
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